CDC 24-7 Fact of the Week Archives
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Fact of the Week - Archives
Week of December 20, 2021
Eating well-balanced meals will help you stay warmer during winter storms. Do not drink alcoholic or caffeinated beverages—they cause your body to lose heat faster. Instead, drink warm, sweet beverages or broth to help keep yourself warm. If you have any dietary restrictions, ask your doctor.
Week of August 23, 2021
In addition to universal indoor masking, CDC recommends schools maintain at least 3 feet of physical distance between students within classrooms to reduce transmission risk. When it is not possible to maintain a physical distance of at least 3 feet, such as when schools cannot fully re-open while maintaining these distances, it is especially important to layer multiple other prevention strategies, such as screening testing.
Week of August 16, 2021
Pregnant and recently pregnant people are at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19—including illness that requires hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator or special equipment to breathe, or results in death—compared with nonpregnant people. Additionally, pregnant people with COVID-19 are at increased risk for preterm birth and might be at increased risk for other poor pregnancy outcomes.
Week of August 9, 2021
Some data suggest the Delta variant might cause more severe illness than previous strains in unvaccinated persons. In two different studies from Canada and Scotland, patients infected with the Delta variant were more likely to be hospitalized than patients infected with Alpha or the original virus strains.
Week of July 26, 2021
Information about the characteristics of COVID-19 variants is rapidly emerging. Scientists are working to learn more about how easily they spread, whether they could cause more severe illness, and whether currently authorized vaccines will protect people against them. Learn more about COVID-19 variants at our page.
Week of June 7, 2021
Stagger vaccination appointments so that you are not vaccinating all workers at the same time in a single department, service, or unit where continued operations are required. Find this and more considerations to minimize the effect of post-vaccination signs and symptoms on employees and the workplace at our page.
Week of May 31, 2021
Be ready for hurricane season. If you need to evacuate, prepare a “go kit” with personal items you cannot do without during an emergency. Include items that can help protect you and others from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, bar or liquid soap, disinfectant wipes (if available) and two masks for each person.
Week of March 15, 2021
More than one in seven American adults are estimated to have chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a condition in which the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood as well as they should. If left untreated, CKD can progress to kidney failure and early cardiovascular disease. Learn about the risk factors for CKD.
Week of March 8, 2021
Good nutrition during the first 2 years of life is vital for healthy growth and development. Starting good nutrition practices early can help children develop healthy dietary patterns. Explore our Infant and Toddler Nutrition page to find nutrition information to help give your child a healthy start in life.
Week of February 22, 2021
Heart disease doesn’t happen just to older adults. It is happening to younger adults more and more often. High rates of obesity and high blood pressure among younger people are putting them at risk for heart disease earlier in life. Learn more about your risk for heart disease and the steps you need to take now to help your heart.
Week of December 7, 2020
National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW), December 6 -12, highlights the importance of influenza vaccination. Join our social media #SleeveUp campaign by featuring photos of yourself and others in your community while getting a flu vaccine or showing off a bandage after getting a flu vaccine.
Week of November 23, 2020
Traditional Thanksgiving gatherings with family and friends are fun but can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19. Follow these tips to make your Thanksgiving holiday safer.
Week of August 24, 2020
During and after a hurricane, you may need supplies to keep your family safe and healthy. Remember that a hurricane could cut off your power and water supply. You also may not be able to drive because of damage to your car. Roads may be flooded or blocked. That’s why it’s best to be prepared—stock up on everything you might need now. Learn more here.
Week of June 29, 2020
Do you know the symptoms? People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may include Fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, and more. These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
Week of June 15, 2020
Limit close contact with others outside your household in indoor and outdoor spaces. Since people can spread the virus before they know they are sick, it is important to stay away from others when possible, even if you—or they—have no symptoms. Social distancing is especially important for people who are at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Learn more about social distancing.
Week of June 1, 2020
Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a condition where different body parts can become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs. We do not yet know what causes MIS-C. Learn more about MIS-C and what to do if you think your child is sick with MIS-C.
Week of May 11, 2020
May is Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month. You can reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter before you need relief from the sun. Your best bet to protect your skin is to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when you’re outside—even when you’re in the shade. Learn more.
Week of May 4, 2020
CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. Learn more about specific guidelines for cloth face covering use and how to make your own at home by visiting our web page.
Week of March 23, 2020
Based on what has been seen previously as the incubation period of MERS-CoV viruses, the following symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may appear 2-14 days after exposure: Fever, cough, shortness of breath. If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice.
Week of March 9, 2020
Most Americans consume about 3,400 milligrams (mg) of sodium each day, which is much more than the recommended amount of 2,300 mg per day (about one teaspoon of salt). Sodium increases blood pressure, which raises the risk for heart disease and stroke. For tips on how to avoid excess sodium in your diet, visit our National Nutrition Month page.

Week of February 17, 2020
The #HowIRecommend video series features short, informative videos from clinicians like you. These videos explain the importance of vaccination, how to effectively address questions from parents about vaccine safety and effectiveness, and how clinicians routinely recommend same day vaccination to their patients.
Week of November 25, 2019
Never thaw your turkey by leaving it out on the counter. A thawing turkey must defrost at a safe temperature. When the turkey is left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, its temperature becomes unsafe. Bacteria can grow rapidly in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F. Visit our food safety page for more Thanksgiving safety tips.
Week of November 4, 2019
Like everyone, people with diabetes get the flu and get sick sometimes, even when you try your best to prevent it. Being prepared and knowing what to do when you get sick is important. There are several things you can do now to prepare for sick days. Visit our page to learn more.
Week of September 9, 2019
During and after a disaster, it is natural to experience different and strong emotions. Coping with these feelings and getting help when you need it will help you, your family, and your community recover from a disaster. Connect with family, friends, and others in your community. Take care of yourself and each other, and know when and how to seek help.

Week of September 2, 2019
Hurricanes don’t only affect people living along the coast. They can still cause damage even if you live hundreds of miles from the shore. If you’re in an area where hurricanes are a risk, you need a plan.

Week of August 26, 2019
The #HowIRecommend video series features short, informative videos from clinicians like you. These videos explain the importance of vaccination, how to effectively address questions from parents about vaccine safety and effectiveness, and how clinicians routinely recommend same day vaccination to their patients.

Week of August 19, 2019
Enjoy the comfort and benefits of contact lenses while lowering your chance of complications. Failure to wear, clean, and store your lenses as directed by your eye doctor raises the risk of developing serious infections.

Week of August 12, 2019
Vaccines help protect you and your baby against serious diseases. You probably know that when you are pregnant, you share everything with your baby. That means when you get vaccines, you aren’t just protecting yourself—you are giving your baby some early protection too. CDC recommends you get a whooping cough and flu vaccine during each pregnancy to help protect yourself and your baby.

Week of August 5, 2019
Breastfeeding is an Investment in Health. Breastfeeding can help lower a mother’s risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, ovarian cancer, and breast cancer.

Week of July 29, 2019
Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver, and is often caused by a virus. The most common types of viral hepatitis are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Learn more about the ABCs of hepatitis.

Week of July 22, 2019
Although the odds of being struck by lightning in a given year are less than 1 in 1,000,000, some factors can put you at greater risk. Learn more about lightning safety.
Week of July 15, 2019
To help ensure the health and safety of young athletes, CDC developed the HEADS UP Concussion in Youth Sports initiative to offer information about concussions to coaches, parents, and athletes involved in youth sports. The HEADS UP initiative provides important information on preventing, recognizing, and responding to a concussion.
Week of July 8, 2019
Working outside on a hot day? Use the NIOSH Heat Safety App to plan outdoor work activities based on how hot it feels throughout the day. Featuring real-time heat index and hourly forecasts, specific to your location, as well as occupational safety and health recommendations from OSHA and NIOSH.
Week of July 1, 2019
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. You can reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer by seeking shade under an umbrella, tree, or other shelter before you need relief from the sun. Your best bet to protect your skin is to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing when you’re outside—even when you’re in the shade. Learn more about sun safety.
Week of June 10, 2019
CDC is committed to protecting and improving the health and quality of life of all youth. Sexual minority youth or lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth are a part of every community, every race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic class, and live in all parts of the United States. Learn more about health risks of LGBT students here.
Week of May 13, 2019
Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Learn more about the health benefits of pet ownership at our “Healthy Pets, Healthy People” feature.
Week of March 4, 2019
Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of many causes of birth defects that CDC is working to better understand. CMV can cause long-term problems, such as hearing loss, developmental and motor delays, vision loss, an abnormally small head, and seizures. Find out more about CMV.
Week of January 28, 2019
About 3 million Americans have glaucoma. Half of people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. Learn more glaucoma facts here, and know your risks.
Week of January 22, 2019
If stranded while driving in winter weather, you should tie a brightly colored cloth to the car antenna as a signal to rescuers. In adults, drowsiness is a sign of hypothermia. Learn more facts about winter safety on our Winter Weather Frequently Asked Questions page.
Week of January 7, 2019
CDC urges all women of reproductive age to take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid each day. Visit our page for free resources and learn more about the importance of folic acid.
Week of December 14, 2018
Most adults need at least 7 hours of sleep each night. However, more than one in three American adults say they don’t get the recommended amount of sleep. Not getting enough sleep over time can lead to serious health problems—and make certain health problems worse. Find out what you can do to get better sleep.
Week of November 5, 2018
Venous thromboembolism (VTE), also known as blood clots is a serious, but preventable medical condition. CDC and the National Blood Clot Alliance’s campaign, Stop the Clot, Spread the Word builds public health awareness about VTE to prevent and reduce the occurrence of life-threatening blood clots. Learn more.
Week of October 22, 2018
When returning to a home that’s been flooded after natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, be aware that your house may be contaminated with mold or sewage, which can cause health risks for your family. Read more on staying safe following a flood.
Week of October 15, 2018
Hispanics/Latinos represent nearly 18% of the total population of the United States, but accounted for 26% of the 40,324 new HIV diagnoses in 2016 in the United States and 6 dependent areas. Let’s Stop HIV Together. Find out how you can do your part to promote HIV prevention and treatment and help fight stigma.
Week of October 8, 2018
Mental disorders among children are described as serious changes in the way children typically learn, behave, or handle their emotions, which cause distress and problems getting through the day. Talk to your child’s healthcare professional if you have concerns about the way they behave at home, in school, or with friends.
Week of October 1, 2018
Did you know some fungal infections can look like other illnesses? A key clue to when a sick person may have a fungal infection is that he or she is being treated with medications for another type of infection but does not get better. #ThinkFungus when symptoms of infection do not get better with treatment.
Week of September 17, 2018
Nearly half of Americans take at least one prescription drug, and one in four Americans take three or more medications. A large-scale natural disaster, such as a hurricane, could make it difficult to get prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Be Prepared. Create an emergency supply.
Week of August 6, 2018
Nearly 1 in 5 people in the U.S. has a disability. Often, there are multiple barriers that can make it difficult or even impossible for people with disabilities to function. Learn more about practices and policies designed to identify and remove barriers for people with disabilities.
Week of July 23, 2018
1 in 4 women in the United States carry Group B Strep (GBS), a common type of bacteria. This type of bacteria can be very dangerous to babies if passed on to them during childbirth. Learn more. Protect your baby from GBS.

Week of July 2, 2018
CDC estimates Salmonella causes about 1.2 million illnesses, 23,000 hospitalizations, and 450 deaths in the United States every year. Learn more about Salmonella and how to protect you and your family.

Week of June 25, 2018
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia among older adults. 5.7 million Americans are estimated to be living with Alzheimer’s disease in 2018. Learn more about Alzheimer’s to recognize the differences between normal aging and changes due to this condition. Learn more.

Week of June 18, 2018
Drownings are a leading cause of injury death for young children ages 1 to 14. Read these key prevention tips to keep children from drowning. Learn more.

Week of June 11, 2018
Congenital cytomegalovirus (pronounced sy-toe-MEG-a-low-vy-rus) or congenital CMV for short can cause birth defects. About one out of every 200 babies is born with congenital CMV. Learn more.

Week of June 4, 2018
Limiting the amount of sugar-sweetened beverage intake can help individuals maintain a healthy weight and have a healthy diet. Rethink your drink! Learn ways to reduce the number of calories you drink. Learn more.

Week of May 23, 2018
Osteoporosis is a medical condition where bones become weak and are more likely to break. If one of your parents has had a broken bone, especially a broken hip, early screening is important. Learn more.
Week of May 15, 2018
Every 40 seconds, someone in the US has a stroke. Read these survivor stories to learn more about stroke, including how you may be at risk, how to recognize stroke, and what to do if stroke happens. Learn more.

Week of May 7, 2018
Falls are the number one cause of construction-worker fatalities, accounting for one-third of on-the-job deaths in the industry. Set aside time to talk about falls in construction and how to prevent them. Learn more

Week of April 30, 2018
Particle pollution has been linked to heart attacks and strokes, and even death in people with heart disease. Get the Air Quality Index to know when to expect high levels of air pollution and how to protect yourself. Learn more

Week of April 23, 2018
Each day in the US, approximately 9 people are killed and more than 1,000 injured in crashes reported to involve a distracted driver. Focusing on the road can save lives. Learn more.

Week of April 16, 2018
April is STD Awareness Month. There’s no avoiding the statistics: the number of reported sexually transmitted disease (STD) cases are at an all-time high, and if you are sexually active, you are at risk of infection. So what can you do? Arm yourself with information
Week of April 9, 2018
Ever wonder how CDC scientists merge old-fashioned detective work with high-tech science to crack the cases of mystery diseases? Visit the David J. Sencer CDC Museum at CDC Headquarters.

Week of April 2, 2018
CDC′s Work Saves Lives Everywhere, Every Day.
CDC’s mission, simply put, is to keep Americans safe and healthy where they work, live and play. Scientists and disease detectives work around the world to track diseases, research outbreaks, respond to emergencies of all kinds.

Week of March 27, 2018
TB is preventable and curable, yet it remains the world’s leading infectious disease killer. Learn what CDC is doing in the United States and around the world to eliminate this devastating disease.

Week of March 19, 2018
Traumatic brain injuries, also known as TBIs, affect the lives of Americans nationwide. Anyone can experience a TBI, but data show that children and older adults (ages 65 and older) are at greater risk.

Week of March 12, 2018
March is National Nutrition Month and this year’s theme, “Go Further with Food,” encourages healthy eating habits and reducing food waste. Learn how to help your family eat better and “Go Further with Food.”

Week of March 5, 2018
Your need for immunization doesn’t end when you become an adult. Get vaccinated to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious diseases.

Week of February 26, 2018
Wherever your travels take you this spring break, stay healthy and safe with these tips.

Week of February 19, 2018
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Take these steps to lower your risk.

Week of February 12, 2018
Children and adolescents who do not get enough sleep have a higher risk for many health and behavior problems. Learn how much sleep students need and how many are not getting it.

Week of February 5, 2018
Is an adventure off the beaten path on your to-do list this year? Learn about your risks and prepare for a fun and safe trip with CDC Travelers’ Health.

Week of January 29, 2018
Physical activity and exercise ease arthritis pain and improve the quality of life of adults living with arthritis. More than 54 million US adults have arthritis. Learn more.

Week of January 8, 2018
Do you have a cold or the flu? Compare the symptoms and learn more about flu complications.

Week of December 11, 2017
Brighten the holidays by making your health and safety a priority. Take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy—and ready to enjoy the holidays.

Week of December 4, 2017
When the Department of Health and Human Services calls the Strategic National Stockpile answers. Learn how Federal Medical Stations help people during a public health emergency.

Week of November 27, 2017
Smoking during pregnancy can cause babies to be born too small or too early (preterm birth), certain birth defects, and stillbirth. Quitting smoking can be hard, but it is one of the best ways a woman can protect herself and her developing baby.

Week of November 20, 2017
In the United States, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for people aged 1‒54. Learn to keep yourself and others safe on the road over the holidays.

Week of November 13, 2017
Each year in the United States, about 50,000 people die from pneumonia. Learn how to lower your risk.

Week of November 6, 2017
More than 183,000 people have died in the United States from overdoses related to prescription opioids from 1999–2015.
Week of October 30, 2017
Children are more vulnerable to environmental exposures from before they are born through early childhood. Learn how to protect your child from exposure to health hazards in the environment.
Week of October 23, 2017
More and more people make their homes in areas that are prone to wildfires. You can take steps to be ready for a wildfire and prepare your home and landscaping to reduce your risk.

Week of October 16, 2017
Having an up-to-date vaccination record is important. This record tells you and your doctor if you’re protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. Use these tools to keep track of your immunizations.

Week of October 10, 2017
Overweight and obesity are associated with at least 13 different types of cancer. These cancers make up 40 percent of all cancers diagnosed. Learn more.

Week of October 2, 2017
The “I Am CDC” videos feature CDC staff who work 24/7 to defend America from health threats. Learn more.

Week of September 25, 2017
In uncertain times, safeguarding America’s health and security is more important than ever. Whether the threat is a disease outbreak, chronic condition, environmental hazard, natural disaster or deliberate attack, CDC works 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to keep Americans safe – in the US and around the world. Learn more.

Week of September 19, 2017
Infections can put you and your family at risk for a life-threatening condition called sepsis. Learn more.

Week of September 4, 2017
Take these important steps to protect yourself, your family and your home during a flood.

Week of August 28, 2017
Did you know that Zika can be spread through sex? Take steps to protect yourself and your partner.

Week of August 14, 2017
EPA-registered insect repellents are proven safe and effective for everyone, including children over 2 months old and pregnant and breastfeeding women. Make sure to follow the directions on the label when applying.

Week of July 31, 2017
Almost 1 out of 3 people in the United States will develop shingles during their lifetime. Your risk of shingles increases as you get older. Learn more.

Week of July 24, 2017
Harmful algal blooms can produce toxins that are dangerous to people, animals, and the environment. Learn what harmful algal blooms are, how you and your pets can avoid them, and what CDC is doing to protect the public’s health.

Week of July 17, 2017
Everyone can do their part to help control mosquitoes. Learn how you can help.

Week of July 10, 2017
Stay healthy and avoid recreational water illnesses (RWIs) when you swim in pools, water playgrounds, or other treated water venues, or use the hot tub/spa, by following a few simple steps.

Week of July 3, 2017
Is that thunder you hear? Was that a lightning flash? Learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones during a thunderstorm.

Week of June 26, 2017
Home canning is an excellent way to preserve garden produce and share it with family and friends. But it can be risky—or even deadly—if not done correctly and safely.

Week of June 19, 2017
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Most cases of melanoma, the deadliest kind of skin cancer, are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. To lower your skin cancer risk, protect your skin from the sun and avoid indoor tanning.

Week of June 12, 2017
Cancer survivors often face physical, mental, or financial problems. Learn how you can help.

Week of June 5, 2017
CDC reminds you to make sure you are up to date on all recommended vaccinations before traveling abroad.

Week of May 29, 2017
May is “Better Hearing and Speech Month,” a time to raise awareness about what you need to do to protect your hearing. Loud noises can cause permanent hearing loss. And once it’s gone, you can’t get it back. Learn more.

Week of May 22, 2017
Ever wonder how CDC scientists merge old-fashioned detective work with high-tech science to crack the cases of mystery diseases? Get the Story! Visit the David J. Sencer CDC Museum at CDC Headquarters. The museum is free and open to the public so we would like to see you soon.

Week of May 1, 2017
Find out how air quality affects your health and use the Air Quality Index to help plan your day.

Week of April 24, 2017
About 1 out of 10 people may have a seizure in his or her lifetime. That means seizures are common, and one day you might need to help someone during or after a seizure. Learn more from CDC.

Week of April 19, 2017
During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, learn about CDC’s work to better understand the problem of child abuse and neglect and to prevent it before it begins.

Week of April 3, 2017
Spring brings baby chicks. CDC reminds you that live poultry, such as chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys, often carry germs such as Salmonella. After you touch a bird, or anything in the area where birds live and roam, wash your hands so you don’t get sick!

Week of March 27, 2017
Pink eye—or conjunctivitis—is common and spreads easily. It sometimes needs medical treatment, depending on the cause. CDC helps you to know the symptoms, when to seek treatment, and how to help prevent it.

Week of March 13, 2017
Read about CDC’s Stop the Clot campaign and learn how to protect yourself from blood clots.

Week of March 6, 2017
Raw milk can contain harmful germs, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can make you very sick or possibly kill you. If you’re thinking about drinking raw milk because you believe it has health benefits, consider other options.

Week of February 27, 2017
February is Children’s Dental Health Month. Learn how most cavities in children can be prevented, and how CDC brings this program to children at highest risk for decay.

Week of February 21, 2017
This February celebrate African American History Month. Learn about how heart disease, cancer, and stroke impact African Americans and how to improve your health.

Week of February 13, 2017
February is Children’s Dental Health Month. Learn how most cavities in children can be prevented, and how CDC brings this program to children at highest risk for decay.

Week of February 6, 2017
February is American Heart Month. Learn about heart disease and women and what you can do to keep a healthy heart.

Week of January 30, 2017
CDC’s Office of Minority Health and Health Equity (OMHHE) supports internship opportunities for qualified undergraduate and graduate students to gain meaningful experiences in public health settings. Learn about programs that provide valuable exposure to a wide range of public health opportunities.

Week of January 17, 2017
CDC reminds you that adults need vaccines too. There are many important reasons to get vaccinated Learn more.

Week of January 9, 2017
CDC has tips to prepare you, your home and your car for winter emergencies. Read more.

























































































































