In our fall post about the 24-25 flu and Covid-19 vaccines, I pointed out that guidelines change, and to stay tuned for updated information. Well, here it is! The CDC published new guidelines for both pneumococcal and Covid-19 vaccines a couple of months ago. (No changes to guidelines for the current influenza season, at least so far.) Pneumococcal vaccine We call it the pneumonia vaccine because it protects us from
The holiday season always feels special. We get so busy with preparations, gatherings, shopping, all while trying to keep up with normal daily activities. It can be exhausting, even stressful. But somehow, the holidays from Thanksgiving all the way through to the New Year always fill me with gratitude. My husband, Bruce, and I have had a busy year. From his trip out west last holiday season to witness the
Chronic lung diseases like asthma and COPD affect an estimated 50 million Americans. Temporary breathing problems caused by respiratory infections are also common, especially during winter months. Inhaled medications can be effective treatments for all of them. Some inhaled medications are used regularly to decrease inflammation and keep airways open, preventing severe breathing problems that may lead to hospitalization. Others effectively open airways quickly when shortness of breath becomes severe. But
It’s the annual open enrollment season for Medicare once again! Open enrollment started Tuesday, October 15th and runs through December 7th. If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, you have the opportunity now to review your current coverage and consider other options. Any changes you make will be effective January 1, 2025, and if you do nothing your current coverage will remain in place. Although you may be eligible to change both your