View all tags
May 11, 2021
Children age 12- to 15- years old can now get the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine following Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration. Results from a Phase 3 clinical trial testing the COVID-19 vaccine in this age group suggest it is highly effective at protecting them from disease.
May 07, 2021
The CDC and the FDA recommended restarting use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine on April 23, 2021, after a temporary pause. After carefully reviewing the data, the CDC and FDA determined that the benefits of getting the J&J vaccine far outweigh potential risks.
April 28, 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of uncertainty about the wellness and safety of our communities. University of Utah Health encourages patients who are anxious about seeking care because of COVID-19 risks to not delay a doctor’s visit, which could ultimately make things worse in the future. At U of U Health, patients have the option to be seen by a physician in person or virtually.
April 14, 2021
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC recognized face masks, physical distancing, frequent hand washing, and staying home when sick as important tools in helping reduce the spread of Sars-CoV-2. Combined with COVID-19 vaccines, these practices will help reach herd immunity and eventually get us back to “normal.” But it’s too early to relax now.
April 05, 2021
Pregnancy has its own unique challenges. Throw in a COVID-19 pandemic and the situation becomes more complicated. With little information available about how coronavirus impacts pregnant and lactating women, it’s important to rely on health care professionals for advice.
March 26, 2021
All Utahns 16 years and older are now eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in Utah. University of Utah Health encourages everyone to get vaccinated to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and bring an end to the pandemic. All COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing serious illness from COVID-19, including hospitalization and death.
March 25, 2021
As health care systems across the country work rapidly to distribute COVID-19 vaccines as efficiently as possible, there is a lot of information that is being shared on social media and online. Sankar Swaminathan, MD, chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at University of Utah Health, sets the record straight on some of the myths about COVID-19 vaccines.
March 16, 2021
Different versions, or variants, of the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) are emerging around the world. Although it sounds alarming, viruses always change via mutation. As scientists work to learn more about these variants and how they may impact the United States, Stephen Goldstein, PhD, a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Human Genetics at University of Utah, shared information about what is currently known.
March 09, 2021
With three COVID-19 vaccines available in the U.S., selecting one might seem difficult. U of U Health infectious disease specialist Sankar Swaminathan, MD, explains why the best vaccine is the first one that is made available to you.
February 26, 2021
Many people are gearing up to get the COVID-19 vaccine. It’s one of the most important ways we can protect ourselves and help get our communities back to normal. Concerned about minor side effects of the vaccine, some people are taking pain relievers before getting vaccinated.
February 25, 2021
Getting vaccinated for COVID-19 is a big step toward protecting yourself, your family, and your friends from the virus that causes this potentially deadly disease. But as well as the vaccine works, we still have a long way to go before we can shop, socialize, and travel without using face masks and practicing social distancing. Here are a few reasons why.
February 23, 2021
February 17, 2021
Folks who've gotten through a COVID-19 infection might naturally question whether they need to get a coronavirus vaccination when their turn comes. Experts say they really need the shot anyway, because even after having COVID they might be vulnerable to reinfection.
February 12, 2021
A new study about women who contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy found that those with severe or critical COVID-19 to be at greater risk of dying and experiencing serious complications compared with asymptomatic women with COVID-19.
February 09, 2021
Discussion of double masking has come to light since the discovery of COVID-19 virus variants. Scientists believe it’s possible that some of these new variant strains can spread more easily and quickly than the original. While double masking could help better protect some people from COVID-19, it’s important now more than ever to continue wearing a mask in public, physical distancing, regularly washing your hands, and staying home when sick.
January 22, 2021
The risk of getting infected with COVID-19 and experiencing severe illness increases with age. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults are at the highest risk.
January 20, 2021
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a lot of uncertainty and worries among vulnerable populations, including pregnant people. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pregnant people are at an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 and death compared to non-pregnant people.
January 05, 2021
It would be an understatement to say that 2020 has been challenging. From the COVID-19 pandemic to earthquakes, severe storms, and lockdowns—in addition to everyday life challenges—this year has been incredibly stressful. Not only can events like these lead to psychological distress, they can also manifest in your skin, triggering or worsening a wide range of conditions.
December 21, 2020
Ski season is here, but this year will look a little different. Resorts are continuing operations with strict safety measures in place, but people are nervous about spending time in the mountains with COVID-19 looming over their heads.
December 11, 2020
Older adults are at greater risk of hospitalization or dying if diagnosed with COVID-19. As Utah continues to see high transmission rates during the holidays, it’s more important now than ever to protect those who are most vulnerable to the virus.
December 09, 2020
University of Utah Health is preparing to receive and distribute COVID-19 vaccines while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The vaccines will be rolled out in phases and provided based on availability.
December 08, 2020
Ophthalmologists have noticed an uptick in patients with new dry eye symptoms—especially among the elderly, immunocompromised, and clinical staff who wear masks almost full-time.
December 07, 2020
The winter months in Utah bring families together and events indoors. People often travel to multiple homes to share gifts and meals with each other. This year, families are being asked to take precautions to reduce transmission of COVID-19.
December 01, 2020
Traveling during widespread COVID-19 transmission in the U.S. increases your chance of getting and spreading the virus. There are many risks involved, including the possibility of infecting those you are visiting or getting infected by those who are visiting you.
November 23, 2020
As the holiday season approaches, COVID-19 transmission in Utah is not slowing down. Unfortunately, small household gatherings are a key contributor to the spread of the virus. Infectious Diseases experts at University of Utah Health discussed ways to keep families safe during the holidays.
November 16, 2020
Gum disease is a common type of dental disease that affects the supporting structures of the teeth such as the gum tissue and the bones surrounding the teeth. Gum disease is so common that 90% of the population has a form of the disease. It’s primarily caused by neglect of not brushing and flossing on a daily basis, and not regularly going to the dentist.
November 12, 2020
A social bubble is a small group of people who socialize only with each other and gather only when following the same prevention measures. The benefit of a bubble is that it gives you the opportunity for in-person interactions, but it doesn’t mean socializing with everyone you know.
Before feasting with relatives from out of town—or friends from outside your social bubble—University of Utah Health specialists say there are a few things to keep in mind this holiday season. Learn about aerosols, airborne transmission of COVID-19 and precautions to take.
November 05, 2020
With COVID-19 interrupting our daily routines, exercising is as important as ever not only for physical health, but mental health too. Exercising is a sure way to make you breath harder and may increase your perspiration which could make wearing a mask more difficult, but even more important in the long run. Dr. Christopher Gee MD, MPH, an Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery answers questions about wearing a mask while in the gym.
October 23, 2020
In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, health care professionals are uncertain what the flu season will look like this year. Due to the similarity of symptoms, it may be hard to tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 based on symptoms alone. Eleni Miller, DO, a pediatrician at University of Utah Health, answers questions about influenza and the flu vaccine.
October 20, 2020
Halloween is approaching and children are looking forward to putting on their costumes and receiving candy from neighbors. However, trick-or-treating may look a little different this year due to COVID-19 risks associated with traditional Halloween activities. Infectious Diseases doctors at University of Utah Health offer advice to celebrate Halloween safely this year.
October 14, 2020
As we learn more about COVID-19, the virus is being associated to several medical conditions and complications in patients that have been infected. A recent study found gum disease can be associated with severe COVID-19 outcomes and other medical conditions.
October 05, 2020
COVID-19 cases are rising in Utah and there’s many questions surrounding coronavirus vaccinations. Healthcare professionals at University of Utah Health are continuously learning about the new disease. Hannah Imlay, MD, infectious diseases physician at U of U Health provides information about the novel virus.
September 30, 2020
As flu season approaches, University of Utah Health is preparing guidelines for how to evaluate and determine whether a patient has COVID-19 or influenza. The coronavirus pandemic has made it difficult to tell the difference between the two viruses due to an overlap of symptoms. Here are some frequently asked questions about influenza.
September 29, 2020
When the SARS-CoV-2 virus, or COVID-19, was first identified, it was associated as a respiratory disease due to symptoms that impacted the lungs. Scientists and doctors have since discovered the virus causes complications to other organs of the body, including the heart. While research is ongoing to understand the long-term effects of COVID-19, cardiologists are learning more about the effects on the cardiovascular system.
September 03, 2020
This Labor Day weekend, millions of Americans are looking to squeeze in one more vacation as summer comes to an end. Since travel increases a person’s risk for COVID-19, it’s important to be cautious and practice good hygiene to help reduce transmission of the virus if you decide to travel.
August 26, 2020
Wildfires are becoming more common and severe due to climate change and warmer and drier conditions in the West. As wildfire season rages in Utah, California, and other parts of the United States, people are also at increased risk for COVID-19 infection due to wildfire smoke.
August 25, 2020
Whether you have COVID-19 (coronavirus) or someone you live with does, you need to take care of yourself and your household. Use these 10 tips to take care of yourself and those you live with.
August 17, 2020
As the virus that causes COVID-19 continues to evolve, experts at University of Utah Health are learning more about the new disease. Emily Spivak, MD, associate professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases at U of U Health, provides information about the virus.
August 11, 2020
Infectious Disease doctors at University of Utah Health held a Q&A panel about COVID-19 and the potential impact it could have on students, teachers, and families when they return to school. The process of returning to school has caused concerns for parents and teachers. The decision to open classrooms and the guidelines put in place by school districts can influence the safety and well-being of those in the education system.
August 10, 2020
As healthcare professionals continue to learn about the virus that causes COVID-19, many parents are tasked with the decision of sending their child to school. Adam Hersh, MD, is a professor of pediatric infectious diseases specializing in epidemiology at University of Utah Health. He answered questions about COVID-19 and returning back to school.
August 03, 2020
Kids and adults are spending more screen time at home as the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into the new school year. One of the side-effects may be eye strain in the form of blurry vision, dry eyes, or even headaches. Griffin Jardine, MD, an ophthalmologist at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah, offers tips for avoiding the strain.
July 17, 2020
The number of coronaviruses cases in Utah continue to rise, and hospitals are on the verge of ICU capacity. Doctors at University of Utah Health say there are two things we can all easily do to stop the spread of COVID-19: physical distance and wear a mask. Russell Vinik, MD, chief medical operations officer at U of U Health answered questions about COVID-19 and shared the latest information about the virus.
July 16, 2020
While the mouth and nose are thought to be the main entry points for catching the coronavirus, there’s also concern about the risk of contracting COVID-19 through the eyes. Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah offer tips about when and where you should consider wearing goggles or wrap-around safety glasses for protection.
July 09, 2020
On March 13, Clement Chow found himself on the leading edge of a tidal wave as one of the first COVID-19 cases in Utah. Read his survivor story and about the work of physicians and scientists at University of Utah Health who are working hard to bring us to the other side of the pandemic.
July 08, 2020
When coronavirus, or COVID-19, first impacted the United States earlier this year, similarities in symptoms of influenza and coronavirus made it difficult to tell the difference between the viruses. Both are contagious respiratory illnesses, but there are some key differences between the two.
June 24, 2020
If you wear glasses and are helping slow the spread of coronavirus by wearing a mask, you’ve probably experienced foggy lenses the moment you put on the mask. What to do? An optical shop expert at the John A. Moran Eye Center shares some tips.
June 23, 2020
Although it's not thought to be the main way of spread, it is possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching food or food packaging, that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. It is always important to follow good food safety practices to reduce the risk of illness from common foodborne pathogens.
June 22, 2020
In the past week, Utah saw an increase number of COVID-19 cases and concerns have grown about individuals not wearing a face mask in public. There are also new questions about an inflammatory drug called dexamethasone that’s being used in trials to treat COVID-19 patients. Richard Orlandi, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Ambulatory Health at University of Utah Health answered questions about COVID-19 and the shared the latest information about what’s known about COVID-19 to date.
June 17, 2020
As nationwide protests of the police and institutional racism continue in the wake of George Floyd's death, officials are reminding demonstrators that COVID-19 remains a threat to Americans' health and spreads easily in large crowds. If you are planning to protest, follow these tips to reduce the risk of spreading the virus and to be safe in general.
June 15, 2020
Kelly Baron, PhD, MPH, DBSM, associate professor in the department of Family & Preventive Medicine at University of Utah Health, is conducting a research study on how sleep is affecting people's routines and offers us some advice on best ways to improve our sleep.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an illness caused by a virus that can spread to person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a new coronavirus, and health experts continue to learn about it every day. Sankar Swaminathan, MD, Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at University of Utah Health answered questions about COVID-19 and the shared the latest information about what’s known about COVID-19 to date.
June 08, 2020
As medical experts continue to study and learn more about COVID-19, current available information and clinical expertise found older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions to be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
June 05, 2020
Are homemade face masks a good idea? The CDC recommends that homemade cloth mask covers can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in a community. Mask covers can limit the spread of germs from the mask wearer to others by helping block large droplets from coughs and sneezes.
June 02, 2020
This guidance is intended for people living together in close quarters, such as people who share a small apartment, or for people who live in the same household with large or extended families.
May 29, 2020
Social distancing amid the COVID-19 pandemic poses unique challenges for the blind and visually impaired. Experts and patients at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah discuss the challenges and how to help.
May 26, 2020
When you can be around others (end home isolation) depends on different factors for different situations. Find CDC’s recommendations for your situation below.
May 22, 2020
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a new type of health condition associated with COVID-19 that’s being diagnosed among a small number of children across the world. A panel of University of Utah Health and Primary Children’s Hospital experts answered questions about what is known about MIS-C so far.
May 15, 2020
COVID-19 is a new disease and there is limited information regarding risk factors for severe disease. Based on currently available information and clinical expertise, older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.
May 06, 2020
The CDC recommends that homemade cloth mask covers can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in a community. Mask covers can limit the spread of germs from the mask wearer to others by helping block large droplets from coughs and sneezes.
May 04, 2020
Utah state liquor stores are seeing a spike in sales during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many are turning to alcohol for a variety of reasons. Some of it may be about stockpiling—but there can be cause for concern of substance abuse.
April 29, 2020
Although it has yet to be proven, growing anecdotal evidence backed by emerging epidemiological findings suggests that anosmia—the loss of the sense of smell—could be one of the earliest telltale indicators of the viral disease in some people.
Suggested metadata: Are contact lens wearers at higher risk for coronavirus infection since they may touch their eyes more than average? Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah offer facts and hygiene tips that should ease concerns of contact lens and eyeglass wearers alike.
April 27, 2020
Do you find yourself placing the back of your hand on your forehead to gauge your temperature? You are not alone. High temperature is an indicator that you might be falling ill. It is also one of the more common symptoms of COVID-19.
April 20, 2020
While we are concerned about COVID-19 and it's impact on our health, we may have other health issues that need to be addressed. After a change in hospital policies, how do we continue to seek care? Learn about the different resources still available at University of Utah Health.
April 17, 2020
Most people who get sick with COVID-19 will have only mild illness and should recover at home. Care at home can help stop the spread of COVID-19 and help protect people who are at risk for getting seriously ill from COVID-19.
April 16, 2020
Should you worry if conjunctivitis, known as pink eye, could be a symptom of coronavirus? Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah discuss the rare association between pink eye and COVID-19 and offer tips for what to do if you or a family member has pink eye.
Washing our hands is one of the effective ways of preventing the spread of COVID-19, particularly after using the restroom, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. However, frequent handwashing can lead to red, itchy or even cracked skin. Here's what a dermatologist recommends is the best way to wash and care for your hands.
April 15, 2020
Also called immunity testing or serological testing, antibody testing tells you if you had been infected in the past by the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 (also referred to as SARS CoV-2).
In this time of COVID-19, many of us have experienced a loss of control, a great sense of vulnerability for ourselves and others, and a whirlwind of challenging emotions. Here's how mindfulness—a practice of paying attention to present moment experiences with curiosity and compassion—can help.
April 14, 2020
Spring is in full bloom. But thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us are having a hard time enjoying the outdoors. Yet health experts say fresh air and exercise are important right now. So how can we be active in a responsible and respectful fashion?
April 12, 2020
Medical advice to stop rubbing your eyes is more important than ever with the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts at the Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah tell you why touching your eyes can be dangerous and offer tips to reduce your chances of coronavirus infection.
April 10, 2020
As communities across the United States take steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 by limiting close contact, people are facing new challenges and questions about how to meet basic household needs, such as buying groceries and medicine, and completing banking activities.
Springtime brings some special holidays, with colorful festivities, family gatherings, and messages of peace. This year, however, things might be looking a little different. Try some of the following ideas to celebrate Easter or Passover in quarantine style.
The coronavirus epidemic is posing new challenges to eating well, from empty shelves to making fewer trips to the store. Here are some ideas to help you and your loved ones maintain good nutrition while sheltering in place.
April 07, 2020
Since the Heroes Work Here signage rolled out, many people have been asking for a version to use at home, so the U of U Health team made it happen with the "Thanks Health Heroes" signs.
March 31, 2020
Across the country, there are orders to stay home or shelter in place to slow the spread of COVID-19. But how that is practiced is often subject to interpretation. Read about what University of Utah Health experts say is safe.
Worries have emerged about whether a pet can become infected and spread coronavirus, or COVID-19. There are some coronaviruses that infect animals, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not received any reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19.
March 30, 2020
If someone in your workplace becomes ill with the cold, flu, or COVID-19 it's important to clean the work space thoroughly. To stop the spread of germs and to prevent others from getting sick there's important steps to take to help protect others.
March 26, 2020
As a family, you can plan and make decisions now that will protect you and your family during a COVID-19 outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has made a checklist of important steps families can prepare for now if a family member or relative becomes infected.
March 24, 2020
Tips to keep children healthy while school’s out.
If a COVID-19 outbreak happens in your community, it could last for a long time. Depending on the severity of the outbreak, public health officials might recommend community actions to reduce exposures to COVID-19. These actions can help slow the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the impact of disease.
March 23, 2020
Many might wonder whether their itchy throat or runny nose could mean something other than an allergic reaction. Could it be COVID-19? Let’s break down the facts.
In the space of a week, social distancing, working from home, and attending classes online quickly became our new reality. As towns and cities go quiet, many businesses are closing their doors for the foreseeable future. That means gyms are no longer an option, and many are itching to know how to continue their workouts either in the confines of their own home or in their neighborhood.
March 20, 2020
Physical distancing can help slow the spread of coronavirus and keep high-risk populations safe. “You’re staying home to protect the most vulnerable,” says Emily Spivak, associate professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases at University of Utah Health. “It’s part of our civic duty.”
March 19, 2020
Your sister is calling, so you pick up. She is crying. She thinks she has the coronavirus (COVID-19). After calming her down, you find out that she called her doctor and they refused to test her. What do you do?
March 17, 2020
Just like the virus itself, emotional stress seems to be spreading alongside the coronavirus outbreak. You may feel fatigued, have difficulty sleeping, or experience a loss of appetite. This is a completely normal human reaction, and there is no “right” way to respond in times of uncertainty.
In a coordinated effort to contain the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, government agencies have recommended against large gatherings for the foreseeable future. On Monday, March 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the White House issued a joint advisory recommending against any gatherings of 10 or more people over the next 15 days.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic due to the rapidly evolving coronavirus, or COVID-19, which is spreading globally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pandemics happen when a new novel virus emerges and infects people easily through person-to-person spread.
March 12, 2020
Coronavirus, or COVID-19, seems to spread rapidly from person to person. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends COVID-19 patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home until they no longer pose a risk of infecting others.
March 10, 2020
By now, you've probably heard of the coronavirus, or COVID-19. Each day, new cases are recorded worldwide, and the headlines just keep getting worse. With a lot of questions still unanswered, here are the facts we know.
Fever, cough, and shortness of breath are all potential symptoms of both influenza and the coronavirus disease, also known as COVID-19. Both diseases can cause mild to severe illness, and both can pose serious complications to high-risk groups. So how does someone know if they have the flu or COVID-19?
March 09, 2020
We all know how important it is to wash our hands before and after handling food and using the restroom. But how effective is hand sanitizer? Is it just as good as soap and water?
March 03, 2020
Women are more susceptible to some viral illnesses during pregnancy, still little is known about how coronavirus, or COVID-19, impacts an expectant mother and her baby. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consider women to be part of an at-risk population for severe illness in the case of some viral infections, such as influenza.
March 02, 2020
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are advising people to wash their hands frequently to protect themselves from respiratory illness. Handwashing, especially during key illness times such as flu season, is the best way to remove germs and avoid getting sick.
February 05, 2020
Taking a few precautions will help.
January 27, 2020
An outbreak of a newly recognized coronavirus in the Chinese city of Wuhan is making international headlines. Already hundreds of people have been sickened and more than 80 have died as a result of the illness. Additional coronavirus patients have been found in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and the United States.
Find a doctor or location close to you so you can get the health care you need, when you need it