By Nathaniel Ratnasamy, MD, Infectious Disease Specialist and Gina Bailey, BSN, RN, Infection Preventionist
Blanchard Valley Health System
There has been concern about measles cases in various parts of the country and a significant uptick worldwide. In the last few weeks, a total of 607 confirmed measles cases were reported by 22 states, including 11 cases in Ohio. Of the 607 confirmed US cases, 74 have been hospitalized, and three have died. According to the CDC, 2025 is already the third-most active year for measles since 2000.
By Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist
On behalf of ONU Healthwise Pharmacy
In 2002, Joni Mitchell announced she was leaving the music industry only to start writing again in 2006.
On September 25, 2007, Mitchell released her 19th studio album titled Shine. The Canadian singer-songwriter became famous in the late 1960s and early 1970s for her folk music. Over her career, she has branched out into many different genres such as pop, jazz fusion and rock. She was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.
By William Kose, MD, JD
Vice President of Special Projects, Blanchard Valley Health System
Understanding your health requires more than just regular checkups and occasional blood tests. One of the most critical markers of overall well-being, especially for those at risk of or living with diabetes, is the A1C test. This simple blood test provides insight into average blood sugar levels over two to three months, making it an essential tool for monitoring and managing health.
By Karen L. Kier, Pharmacist
On behalf of ONU Healthwise Pharmacy
On August 25, 1939, the Wizard of Oz movie was released in the United States based on the novel written by L. Frank Baum. One of the more iconic scenes in the movie was when Dorothy, Toto and the Cowardly Lion were lulled to sleep by a field of poppies. Poppies are a bright and beautiful red flower and are often used as a symbol of remembrance. You can see them worn on Memorial Day and Veterans Day to honor the sacrifice of our military.
Due to the ongoing measles outbreaks across the country and around the globe, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their guidance for vaccination for Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) for individuals less than 12 months old who are at high risk of exposure to measles.
MMR vaccine can be given to children as young as 6 months of age who are at high risk of exposure such as during international travel or travel to a community where an outbreak has been declared.
By Lindsay Hartman, APRN-CNP
Certified Nurse Practioner, Primary Care at Wellness Park
Building a strong relationship with a primary care provider is one of the most important steps individuals can take to safeguard their health. A primary care provider serves as the first point of contact for medical concerns, offering preventive care, chronic disease management, and personalized guidance to maintain overall well-being. Establishing a trusted partnership with a healthcare professional ensures continuity of care and provides a solid foundation for long-term health management.
