The Fidelis Care Blog

August is National Immunization Awareness Month. It’s a time to highlight the important role vaccines play in protecting individuals, families, and communities. Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to prevent serious diseases and reduce their spread. Childhood immunizations protect against serious diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, Hepatitis A and B, and more. These vaccines help children stay healthy and provide protection as they grow into adulthood. The American Academy of Pediatrics has a recommended schedule that you can view here. Vaccinations are not just for children. Staying up to date with recommended vaccines is also important

During National Health Center Week from August 2 to 8, Fidelis Care recognizes the community health centers that help New Yorkers access the care they need to live healthier lives. Across cities, suburbs, and rural areas, these organizations provide quality healthcare, connect people with important resources, and help improve the health of their communities.

Learning to swim is one of the most important skills a child can learn. Drowning is among the leading causes of death for children ages 1-4, with most of these incidents occurring in the family’s own pool. Luckily, children can start swim lessons as early as 6-12 months old. We know finding budget-friendly options can be challenging, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the free and discounted swim lesson options around New York State. Check in with your local YMCA or parks department for additional help. Free/Discounted Swim Lesson Resources: City Swim Project, based in Buffalo, offers free swim lessons

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is an important part of staying healthy. They provide our bodies helpful nutrients like vitamins, minerals and fiber. You may have seen news reports about an illness called cyclosporiasis. People can get cyclosporiasis after eating food or drinking water that has a tiny germ in it. Sometimes, this can happen with fresh produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables are still healthy choices. You can lower your risk of getting sick by washing, peeling and cooking them. What Are the Symptoms? The most common symptom is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms may include: Loss of appetite Stomach cramps Nausea Vomiting Tiredness Weight

Having open conversations about health can make a big difference and help break the stigma around asking for help or going to the doctor. Men’s Health Month is a perfect time to remind men and boys that taking care of both physical and mental health is important. Why Preventive Care Matters Many health problems can be treated more easily when they are found early. That’s why regular checkups and screenings are important. “A common myth I hear is, ‘If I feel fine, I don’t need to see a doctor,’” Senior Medical Director Dr. Jermel Hawkins said. “This is untrue. Many diseases are silent

August is National Immunization Awareness Month. It’s a time to highlight the important role vaccines play in protecting individuals, families, and communities. Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to prevent serious diseases and reduce their spread. Childhood immunizations protect against serious diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, Hepatitis A and B, and more. These vaccines help children stay healthy and provide protection as they grow into adulthood. The American Academy of Pediatrics has a recommended schedule that you can view here. Vaccinations are not just for children. Staying up to date with recommended vaccines is also important

During National Health Center Week from August 2 to 8, Fidelis Care recognizes the community health centers that help New Yorkers access the care they need to live healthier lives. Across cities, suburbs, and rural areas, these organizations provide quality healthcare, connect people with important resources, and help improve the health of their communities.

Learning to swim is one of the most important skills a child can learn. Drowning is among the leading causes of death for children ages 1-4, with most of these incidents occurring in the family’s own pool. Luckily, children can start swim lessons as early as 6-12 months old. We know finding budget-friendly options can be challenging, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the free and discounted swim lesson options around New York State. Check in with your local YMCA or parks department for additional help. Free/Discounted Swim Lesson Resources: City Swim Project, based in Buffalo, offers free swim lessons

Eating fresh fruits and vegetables is an important part of staying healthy. They provide our bodies helpful nutrients like vitamins, minerals and fiber. You may have seen news reports about an illness called cyclosporiasis. People can get cyclosporiasis after eating food or drinking water that has a tiny germ in it. Sometimes, this can happen with fresh produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables are still healthy choices. You can lower your risk of getting sick by washing, peeling and cooking them. What Are the Symptoms? The most common symptom is watery diarrhea. Other symptoms may include: Loss of appetite Stomach cramps Nausea Vomiting Tiredness Weight

Having open conversations about health can make a big difference and help break the stigma around asking for help or going to the doctor. Men’s Health Month is a perfect time to remind men and boys that taking care of both physical and mental health is important. Why Preventive Care Matters Many health problems can be treated more easily when they are found early. That’s why regular checkups and screenings are important. “A common myth I hear is, ‘If I feel fine, I don’t need to see a doctor,’” Senior Medical Director Dr. Jermel Hawkins said. “This is untrue. Many diseases are silent