Health Topics

Health topics

Browse topics to help you live your best life.

Hot Topics

Get information and resources on trending healthcare topics, such as infectious diseases, seasonal safety, medications and more.

Hometown Health Blog

5 things to know during upper respiratory illness season

Signs of fall and winter are appearing, temperatures are cooling and cases of flu, strep throat and RSV are increasing. Read five things to know during this year's upper respiratory illness season.

Jill Lenhart, M.D. By Jill Lenhart November 5, 2024

What you should know about RSV and the RSV vaccine

Upper respiratory infections are common at this time of year. Be prepared for seasonal cases of RSV by learning about the vaccines, how to manage symptoms at home and when to seek care.

Dennis Costakos MD By Dennis Costakos October 10, 2024

Mayo Clinic expert discusses updated COVID-19 vaccines

New COVID-19 vaccines are designed to better protect against variants and prevent serious illness. Read what a Mayo Clinic expert shares about who should receive the updated vaccine.

September 11, 2024

6 tips for flood water safety

Intense rainfall and flooding lead to many areas playing host to standing water. When water accumulates, it can pose significant health and safety risks. Read six tips to help you stay safe.

Jessica Sheehy PAC By Jessica Sheehy July 1, 2024

5 ways slimming screen time is good for your health

How much time do you and your family members spend using screens? Reducing screen time allows you to be present in the moment. Learn about the many benefits of cutting down on screen time.

Mysoon Ayuob MD By Mysoon Ayuob May 29, 2024

Answers to 3 common questions about measles

Measles was declared eliminated from the U.S., but cases are returning. Get answers to common questions about measles, and read why vaccination is the best defense against the spread of the virus.

Sarah Scherger MD By Sarah Scherger May 17, 2024

Organ donation: Don't let these myths confuse you

Over 100,000 people in the U.S. are waiting for an organ transplant. Being an organ donor is a generous, worthwhile decision that can be lifesaving. Get answers to 10 common organ donation myths.

Jason Beckermann, M.D. By Jason Beckermann April 2, 2024

How to watch the solar eclipse safely

Viewing an eclipse is memorable, but eye experts stress doing it safely. Looking into any type of eclipse — partial or total — poses severe risks to your eyes. Read tips for safe eclipse viewing.

Robert Friese OD By Robert Friese April 1, 2024

Steps to prevent norovirus

Anyone can be infected with the highly contagious illness norovirus. Follow these tips to decrease your risk of getting the viruses that cause gastroenteritis, often referred to as the stomach flu.

Timothy Slama, D.O. By Timothy Slama March 13, 2024

6 common flu misconceptions

Common myths about the flu may keep you from taking the necessary steps to protect yourself from the illness. Learn the truth about lowering your risk — starting with the annual flu vaccine.

Jennifer Johnson DO By Jennifer Johnson December 22, 2023

A doctor's warning about the dangers of vaping

Nicotine is addictive regardless of the delivery method, including cigarettes or electronic cigarettes. Get the ugly truth, learn the warning signs and talk to your kids about the dangers of vaping.

Graham King MD By Graham King November 15, 2023

At-home COVID-19 tests: What to know about expiration dates, new variants

A Mayo Clinic expert shares what you need to know about expiration dates for at-home COVID-19 tests. Find out if these tests can detect new COVID-19 variants and what to do if the test is positive.

September 20, 2023