Category: General

Volunteering Throughout the Disaster Cycle: Insights from the Medical Reserve Corps

MRC volunteers reviewing supply lists

Volunteering with the Medical Reserve Corps One of the strongest threads woven into the fabric of American culture is that of volunteer service. When someone is in need, we ask what can be done to help. This is never more evident than during a time of disaster. As we recognize September as National Preparedness Month, Read More >

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Is Your Family Ready?

Mother, young son, and father smiling

We’re pleased to welcome Tala Hooban from the Administration on Children and Families to Public Health Matters. Tala works in ACF’s Office of Human Services Emergency Preparedness and Response and understands the importance of keeping families safe and together during a disaster. I was in high school when 9/11 happened and all I remember was Read More >

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Emergencies and the Elderly: taking care of older adults during a disaster

Younger adult holding older adult's hands

By Maggie Silver When the Cedar River flood waters began to rise in Iowa most residents were able to see the impending danger and safely evacuate their homes. But Donna, an elderly woman living in a secluded section of town is blind, and couldn’t see when her basement began to fill with water. Since she doesn’t watch Read More >

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The Hidden Dangers of Getting Inked

The practice of tattooing has been around for thousands of years.  These days, 21% of adults in the United States report having at least one piece of permanent artwork on their bodies.   Many people who receive these lasting tributes – to loved ones, to pop culture, to religion, or to whatever they’re into – Read More >

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West Nile Virus: Recent Surge in Cases Sparks Concern in Texas

up close picture of a mosquito biting a human

West Nile virus season is off to an early start this year, which doesn’t bode well for what’s to come. Most West Nile virus exposures in the United States occur from July through October, with a peak during the first two weeks of August. Peak season in Texas is under way, and there are already 336 cases Read More >

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Getting Prepared, the College Years

College students sitting on steps

  By Kathleen LaPorte Twelve years of school, countless numbers of standardized test, a tassel, a diploma, and a college acceptance letter and you are fully prepared for college, or are you?  We’ve put together a few helpful tips on how to get ready for college. Read More >

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