DISEASE

If scientists can't develop a vaccine for a new virus quickly enough, an epidemic can turn into a pandemic.

Pandemic vs. Epidemic: What’s the Difference?

Definitions of 'pandemic' and 'epidemic' differ, but it’s not always clear which one best describes a disease outbreak like the new coronavirus.

Fat Bats Might Be Resistant to Deadly White-Nose Syndrome

Good news: chubby little brown bats might be genetically resistant to white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that’s killed more than 5.5 million bats since it was first documented in 2006.

Washing your hands is the best protection against germs.

Why You're Probably Washing Your Hands All Wrong

Washing your hands might be the most repetitive activity any of us will ever do. So why do so many of us get it wrong?

Coronavirus fears have spread throughout China and beyond.

China's Coronavirus App Is Alerting Citizens When They're in Danger of Being Infected

The smartphone app developed by the Chinese government warns users when they've been in close contact with someone likely to be infected with the new coronavirus.

Does Wearing a Face Mask Really Help Protect Against Coronavirus and Other Illnesses?

Masks have become a part of daily life for millions in response to the spread of coronavirus. But can they really lessen the spread of disease?

Here’s What You Need to Know About the New Coronavirus

The outbreak started in Wuhan, China, and now five cases have been confirmed in the U.S. Here are the details.

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Pet Store Puppies Are Making Humans Sick, Says CDC

Thirty people have contracted a drug-resistant strain of infectious bacteria, and the CDC says that contact with pet store puppies was likely the source.

9 Facts About Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is defined by daytime drowsiness, and in some cases, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and the sudden loss of muscle control. Here are more facts about this often-misunderstood disorder.

A circa 1860s lithograph titled "Fire: The horrors of crinoline & the destruction of human life."

7 Very Victorian Ways to Die

In the Victorian era, a glass of water, a beautiful dress, or a brightly colored piece of wallpaper could all spell your doom.

10 Facts You Should Know About Epilepsy

There are different types of epileptic seizures that come with different epilepsy symptoms. Here are some more facts about this neurological condition.

German Court Rules Hangovers Are a Legitimate Illness

The next time you take a sick day to nurse a wicked hangover, let this article be your justification.

General Mills Is Recalling More Than 600,000 Pounds of Gold Medal Flour Over E. Coli Risk

Five-pound bags of Gold Medal unbleached all-purpose flour are potentially contaminated with E. coli, and though it hasn't been connected to any illnesses, General Mills is voluntarily recalling the product to be safe.

Library Books Were Once Blamed for Spreading Deadly Diseases

At the turn of the 20th century, library patrons feared picking up a book might result in more than late fees. They worried it could transmit tuberculosis.

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Honey Bees Can Get STDs, Too

Bees, like many animals, are polyandrous—meaning females partner with multiple mates. And they might need their own PSAs about the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases.

Taco Seasoning Sold at Walmart Has Been Recalled Due to Salmonella Contamination

The two spice blends sold at Walmart have been linked to a batch of cumin contaminated with Salmonella.

11 Facts You Should Know About Depression

Depression affects 300 million people worldwide, but there's good news: There are effective treatments. Here’s what you need to know about this debilitating mental disorder.

12 Facts About Diabetes Mellitus

From risk factors to the latest treatments, here's what you need to know about the three types of diabetes (yes, there are three).

Chicago Area Police Are Warning Pet Owners About ‘Zombie Raccoons’

"Zombie raccoons" have a disease that causes them to walk upright, stagger, and bare their teeth—and they pose a threat to pets.

10 Facts About Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease means more than just a sensitive digestive tract. From symptoms to treatments, here's what you need to know about the inflammatory bowel disease.

An Avengers: Endgame Screening May Have Exposed the Audience to Measles

A woman who had traveled internationally attended the film before coming down with symptoms, potentially exposing the audience to the virus.

Some Gen Xers Might Need Measles Booster Shots

Even if you received the measles vaccine as a child, you may still need a booster shot to be totally immune.

10 Facts About High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure guidelines have changed recently, which means Americans are more likely to receive a hypertension diagnosis than ever. Here are some essential facts about high blood pressure symptoms and causes.

10 Facts About Hepatitis

Different types of hepatitis have different causes and treatments. Here's what you should know about hepatitis a, hepatitis b, hepatitis c, and other forms of the disease.

10 Things You Should Know About Asthma

Asthma symptoms affect more than 25 million Americans, including 7 million children. But kids who grow up around animals are less likely to have an asthma diagnosis.

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