Autoimmunity may be Rising in the United States

Autoimmunity, a condition in which the body’s immune system reacts with components of its own cells, appears to be increasing in the United States, according to scientists at the National Institutes of Health and their collaborators.

In a study published April 8 in Arthritis and Rheumatology, the researchers found that the prevalence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA), the most common biomarker of autoimmunity, was significantly increasing in the United States overall and particularly in certain groups.… Read full story

BBB Tip: Student Loan Forgiveness

Traditionally, this is the time of year when aspiring graduates are eagerly planning their walk across the stage and claim their diploma. Shortly thereafter, the student loan repayment process begins. However, these are different times as health officials deal with the coronavirus, shutting down colleges and universities, leaving several graduates and families with more questions than answers.… Read full story

Cleaning and Disinfecting Alternatives – COVID-19 Checklist

COVID-19 Cleaning and Disinfecting Alternatives

Top 5 Ways To Disinfect When Everyday Supplies Run Out

Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton, M.D., MPH, offers the following suggestions for preventive cleaning against COVID-19 if everyday supplies, such as cleaning wipes or cleaning sprays, run out:

  • Use a diluted household bleach solution if appropriate for the surface: 5 tablespoons (1/3 cup) bleach per gallon of water; or 4 teaspoons of bleach per quart of water.
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COVID-19 Update: Liquor Sales, Office of Small Business Relief, Ohio Prisons, SNAP Payments

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted, and Dr. Amy Acton, MD, MPH, provided the following updates on Ohio’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

LIQUOR CONTROL COMMISSION VOTE: 

The Ohio Liquor Control Commission passed an emergency rule to allow establishments with an existing on-premises liquor permit to sell and deliver alcohol, including high-proof liquor in limited quantity, for off-premises consumption.… Read full story

World Health Day

In this pandemic, few are placed in as challenging a role as our healthcare professionals. Today, we want to call attention to their service in these difficult times. To those who put their health on the line every day to care for our community, we thank you. … Read full story