World Immunization Week (April 24-30) is an annual week of awareness that was created to promote the importance of vaccines across the globe. Uzma Rashid, MD, a Family Medicine physician at Woodland Clinic, shares how vital vaccines are to our health and safety.

Feeling stressed? You’re not alone. Stress levels among Americans are on the rise largely on account of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a recent study by the American Psychological Association (APA). April is National Stress Awareness Month and while stress is a natural human emotion that helps us prepare and perform as necessary (think “fight or flight” mode), it can also negatively impact our health.

National Handwashing Awareness Week (Dec. 1-7) is more important than ever as we’re continuing to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Keeping your hands clean is one of the best defenses against the spread of germs, bacteria and virus, including COVID-19. Son Dong, DO, a Family Medicine physician with Dignity Health Medical Group — North State, shares a few tips on how to most effectively sanitize and wash your hands to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses.

Physical health is essential to combat the stress and demands of today’s climate, but it can be difficult to stay healthy when access to public recreational facilities and gyms are limited. However, it’s more important than ever to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even as many of us are spending more time indoors. Christel Miranda, MD a family medicine physician with Mercy Medical Group in Roseville, offers a few tips to help you stay active while at home. 

We’re sharing informative and helpful insight on how to identify and cope with symptoms of depression that may stem from loneliness and isolation.

Communities, families and individuals worldwide have been affected by the social restrictions set in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Quarantine has also taken a mental toll as many are struggling to cope with loneliness and isolation. Manav Khullar, MD, a psychiatrist with Mercy Medical Group in Sacramento, says it is normal to feel sad or stressed right now because of the many changes we are experiencing in our lives.