In the realm of public health, few preventative measures rival the significance of receiving the annual flu vaccine. This immunization not only safeguards individuals but also plays a pivotal role in community well-being. It is crucial to understand why getting the flu vaccine is imperative, particularly in regions like Portland and the broader Pacific Northwest.  Regional Relevance in the Pacific NW  Climate Variability: The Pacific Northwest experiences diverse weather patterns, with chilly, damp winters being ...

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Recently, the world has witnessed a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. As the virus evolves and new variants appear, it’s become clear that COVID-19 will be present for some time. In this evolving landscape, urgent care centers have once again emerged as crucial players in the fight against viruses, providing vital support to healthcare systems and communities.  The New Surge: Understanding the Numbers  Several factors, including the emergence of more contagious variants and waning vaccine ...

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A Simple Blueprint for a Healthier Fall in the Pacific NW: Navigating with Ease  As summer bows out and fall’s splendid hues paint the Pacific Northwest, it’s time to embrace the beauty and prepare for the seasonal shifts. To ensure your well-being remains intact during this transition, here’s a detailed yet simple guide with essential health tips to thrive in the Pacific NW’s fall. 1. Dress Right for Changing Weather The ...

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High school fall sports provide valuable physical activity and team engagement, but they also bring the possibility of injuries that can impact young athletes. Understanding these risks and taking preventive measures is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable sports experience.  1. Sprains and Strains In sports like soccer, football, and cross-country, sprains (ligament injuries) and strains (muscle/tendon injuries) are common. These can lead to pain, swelling, and limited movement, potentially causing lasting joint ...

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Why Should I Tell My Partner?  First off, notifying a partner about a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is essential for maintaining trust within the relationship. Honesty and open communication are fundamental to any successful partnership. Sharing this sensitive information demonstrates respect and consideration for one’s partner’s health and well-being. Early disclosure allows for timely medical intervention. Proper diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring are necessary for STIs. Informing one’s partner promptly allows both individuals ...

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Sports physicals are vital to ensure the health and well being of those keen on participating in athletic activities. They are thorough medical exams that are necessary to gauge the physical fitness levels of athletes. In Oregon, the Oregon Schools Activities Association (OSAA) oversees sports physicals. The OSAA also recommends a specific form be used by medical professionals when performing this exam. The form can be found online at https://www.osaa.org/docs/forms ...

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The Pacific Northwest is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering breathtaking landscapes, lush forests, and an abundance of recreational activities. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety and health while embarking on these outdoor adventures. Here are some tips to ensure a safe excursion in the Pacific Northwest this summer: 1. Plan and Prepare Before heading out, research the trail or activity you plan to undertake. Be aware of the weather conditions, difficulty level, and ...

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Foods that contain probiotics have become very popular in the last couple of decades with many Oregonians incorporating them into their diets on a consistent basis – weekly or even daily! Interestingly, even Oregon State University received a grant a few years ago to use probiotics to improve the growth and health of oyster larvae. For those of us who love Pacific NW oysters, that sounds great!. But what do we really know about probiotics for ...

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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) (historically referred to as STDs)  are more prevalent than many think and if left undetected and untreated, can have severe consequences. Regular STI testing ensures early identification of any infections, enabling prompt medical intervention and preventing further transmission.  Consistent STI testing helps individuals take control of their sexual health. Many STIs may not display obvious symptoms after contraction, making testing the only reliable method for detection. Regular testing allows individuals to ...

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Portland, OR — A new, hard to detect virus is spreading around Portland and local medical providers at American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s largest provider of accessible primary care, urgent care and occupational medicine, are urging everyone to take note and be aware of a test that can identify the illness safely and quickly.   “The current allergy season is the worst it’s been in years, so we are seeing a lot of visits ...

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