HIV continues to be a serious public health concern in the United States, where it affects more than 1.2 million Americans. Getting tested for HIV is key to ending this epidemic, given how nearly 40 percent of new infections are transmitted by people who don’t know they have the virus, reports the CDC.  June 27 of every year is National HIV Testing Day—a day that was first observed in 1995 to spread awareness of the importance of getting tested for HIV.  The month of June is also LGBTQ+ Pride Month, which is celebrated to honor and recognize equal justice and opportunities for Americans who...

Many areas of the world have begun to lift or relax major travel restrictions that have been in place for most of the COVID-19 pandemic. For many people, that means exciting travel plans on the horizon this summer. However, it’s still important to know the risks of traveling while COVID continues to spread to ensure protection for yourself and your family while on vacation. Follow these summer travel safety tips to stay healthy no matter how you spend your summer.  What to Know Before You Travel  Around 60 percent of adults plan to travel this summer, many of them internationally. However,...

Mental health conditions are the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth. However, these conditions often go untreated, which makes it harder for moms and families to care for children and themselves. Maternal mental health conditions are usually treatable and temporary, but women and childbearing people must receive the right support to get through them. HHS Launches New Maternal Mental Health Hotline The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently established a hotline to help childbearing people and new moms facing mental health struggles. The hotline was launched...

Ah…Memorial Day Weekend—the unofficial launch of summer. Pools open, friends host BBQs, and you can go hiking, boating, and road-tripping, even with your furry friend. Although these are all fun activities, you must exercise caution and common sense as each of these activities has inherent dangers. Thanks to the American Red Cross, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the National Firefighter Protection Association, and AbsorbTech, here are some safety tips to protect yourself, your pets, and your vehicle. COVID-19 With the current COVID-19 pandemic, this Memorial Day...

The U.S. is not out of the woods regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts forecast another potential surge this summer or fall. With COVID-related hospitalizations and deaths expected to increase in the next few weeks, the White House is preparing for up to 100 new infections later this year.  What is the Prediction for this Summer and Fall?  Dr. Deborah Birx, the former White House Coronavirus Response Task Force Coordinator, warns of several forthcoming cases in the southern U.S. states. While the south will likely see a surge this summer, a wave of new cases might hit the northern states...