Putting Family in Family Medicine

Each year, the first week of December marks National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) - a nationwide effort to encourage everyone to get their annual flu shot. As flu season picks up, this week serves as an important reminder that it’s not too late to get vaccinated. Whether you are young, older, healthy, or living with chronic conditions, the flu vaccine remains one of the most effective ways to prevent illness for yourself and those around you.

On December 1 of each year, communities around the world come together to recognize World AIDS Day, a global event dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS. This even aims to raise awareness, support those living with the virus, and to remember the lives lost since the beginning of the epidemic. First established in 1988, World AIDS Day remains an important time to reflect on how far we have come – and how much more we can still do to reduce stigma, increase testing, and prevent new infections.

Delirium is a sudden change in a person’s thinking, attention, and awareness. It usually comes on quickly (hours to days) and can make someone feel confused, disoriented, or less alert than usual. The word “delirium” comes from Latin, meaning “to go off the furrow,” or stray from a clear path. Doctors have written about symptoms like delirium for centuries, but it was more clearly described and studied in the 1800s as doctors began to better understand mental health and brain function.

As the holiday season approaches, many people look forward to festive gatherings, delicious meals, and sweet treats. However, this time of year can also present challenges for those trying to maintain a healthy weight. With a little planning and mindful choices, it’s possible to enjoy the holidays without compromising your health goals.