Cancer prevention may seem like an adult conversation, but when it comes to human papillomavirus (HPV), some of the most important protection can start in childhood. When your child is offered a vaccine at school, it is natural to have questions. What does it protect against? Why is it being given at this age? And,
5 things every parent should know about the HPV vaccine Read More »
Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a disease most people have heard of, but many don’t realise just how quickly it can become serious. IMD is caused by a bacteria and can lead to meningitis, which affects the lining around the brain and spinal cord – or to sepsis, a serious bloodstream infection. A new innovative
Is your family protected from meningococcal meningitis? Read More »
Observed each year on 3 March, World Birth Defects Day highlights the importance of prevention, early detection and quality care for babies born with congenital conditions. While not all birth defects can be prevented, steps taken before and during pregnancy including vaccination, supplementation and early clinical care can significantly lower certain risks and improve outcomes
7 pregnancy care and vaccination steps that help reduce birth defect risks Read More »
The distinctive high-pitched sound of someone gasping for air in the severe coughing spasms associated with pertussis explains why it is commonly known as ‘whooping cough’. “Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory infection, and most people recover after a prolonged period of coughing, but for some it can lead to pneumonia and other potentially life-threatening
Whooping cough is back: How to protect your family Read More »
If time and headspace are two things you don’t have enough of, this vaccination guide from Ajuda provides everything you need to know about vaccinations in South Africa for 2025. Johannesburg, 23 April 25: In 2009 South Africa experienced a significant measles outbreak. Dr Liza Street, paediatrician and co-founder of Ajuda, a digital storage vault for
2025 Vaccination Guide for Busy South African Parents Read More »
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of over 200 viruses, some of which are transmitted sexually through skin-to-skin contact as well as through intimate touching including contact with fingers, mouths and other body parts. Most HPV infections present with no symptoms or health problems, but certain strains can increase the risk of cancer in parts
One dose of HPV vaccine, one less worry for cervical cancer Read More »
Rabies is one of the most ancient diseases in the world, and yet it continues to pose a serious risk to both animals and humans, particularly in developing countries. World Rabies Day on 28 September shines a spotlight on the realities of rabies and why it is so important for pet owners to vaccinate their
Pet owners can proactively limit rabies through vaccinations Read More »
As seasonal viruses start making their way across boardrooms, classrooms and all the spaces between, children and high-risk individuals must urgently receive the flu and pneumococcal vaccines to avoid serious illness, hospitalisation and potentially fatal complications. This is according to Josua Joubert, CEO and principal officer of CompCare Medical Scheme, who notes that pneumococcal vaccination is
Seasonal vaccines – don’t stop at flu Read More »
Parents, home gardeners and those who work with soil and animals should be aware of the need for staying up to date with regular tetanus vaccinations. “The speed of onset of tetanus was recently highlighted when a keen home gardener developed symptoms just five days after working with compost with their bare hands,” says Dr Pete Vincent
Hidden potential danger lurks in the soil Read More »
We’ve all been there: the sore throat, runny nose and cough. Often, feeling like this is due to the common cold, especially if the onset is gradual and the symptoms quite mild. But with winter approaching, is flu something we really need to worry about? While more than 100 different viruses can cause a cold, influenza is
Is influenza really something to worry about? Read More »