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Vaccines and immunizations Archive

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Wondering about COVID-19 vaccines if you're breastfeeding?

If you're breastfeeding, you may have questions about the COVID-19 vaccines. Experts agree that people who are breastfeeding should receive the vaccine to help them and their baby stay healthy. Get informed by consulting trusted health sources, and talking with your medical providers about your options.

Skills children need to succeed in life — and getting youngsters started

All parents want their children to be happy and able to successfully navigate life's challenges. Five core skills form a great foundation and the early childhood window is particularly important for developing them. Parents can help their children learn and strengthen these skills in the course of everyday activities.

What happened to trusting medical experts?

In all aspects of our lives, we rely on the knowledge and advice of experts. So why are hundreds of thousands of people in the US rejecting advice on COVID-19 from well-respected health authorities, and embracing advice from those with dubious expertise –– and unproven and potentially dangerous remedies?

Stuttering in children: How parents can help

Stuttering in children is fairly common: as many as 10% of children stutter between the ages of 2 and 6. Although the majority of them stop, it can be distressing for both the children and their parents. Here's how to help your child manage stuttering and when to talk to your pediatrician or a speech-language specialist.

Dropping anchor on big emotions

When children are learning about their emotions and how to manage them, there can be spillovers at school and at home. Parents can help their child or teen navigate big emotions by talking about them, modeling calm behavior, and offering coping strategies like grounding and anchoring.

Reduce the health risks from "forever chemicals"

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of manmade chemicals that are widely used in products such as nonstick pans, stain repellants for furniture and carpets, cosmetics, and industrial products. These compounds are dangerous to human health and may lead to immune system problems and increased risk of certain cancers. Avoiding exposure by filtering water and choosing PFAS-free products can help to reduce those risks.

Can you get shingles more than once?

It is possible to get shingles more than once. But getting vaccinated with the Shingrix vaccine may help prevent this from occurring.

Can I skip vaccination if I had COVID?

Evidence suggests that people who've had COVID-19 may have some natural protection against the virus, but will have a much stronger immune response if they also get the vaccine.

Can COVID cause diabetes?

COVID-19 infections may raise the risk of developing diabetes, because the virus can damage insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Remember the flu? Yep, it's that time again

Last winter's flu season was mild, partly due to record high rates of flu vaccination and steps people were already taking to protect themselves from COVID-19. But don't let that fool you — some flu seasons are severe, so it it's wise to get a flu shot and take other precautions that can help you stay healthy this winter.

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