How to Prepare for Cold and Flu Season

Posted on October 10, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As we progress through the fall season and approach winter, it is essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from seasonal illnesses.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for the upcoming cold and flu season:

Getting vaccines, such as the flu shot, can help your body’s immune system recognize and defend against a variety of viruses before you get infected. They can also reduce the severity of symptoms if you do fall ill.
Avoiding and preventing the spread of illnesses by practicing good hygiene habits can help reduce your exposure to germs and viruses. Some good hygiene habits you can practice include:
- Washing your hands regularly, especially before eating and after using the restroom
- Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, even if it is just seasonal allergies
- Wiping down commonly used surfaces in your home, such as door handles, toilets, faucets, remotes, and other areas you and your loved ones may touch regularly
- Avoiding sharing personal products and utensils with others
- Wearing a mask to help reduce your exposure to respiratory illnesses
- Limiting time in shared spaces, when you can, to help stop germs from spreading around your home
Taking care of yourself by protecting your immune system. Some ways you can protect your immune system include:
- Getting a good night’s rest can help strengthen your body and immune system against illnesses
- Adding vitamin-dense fruits and vegetables to your meals can help you maintain your energy and ward off viral and bacterial infections.
- Staying hydrated, which can help loosen mucus and increase blood flow
- Staying physically active can help your body build resistance and resilience against infectious diseases
- Taking time to relax and manage stress is important to keep your immune system running at full capacity. Experiencing stress may affect self-care routines and lower the body’s resistance to infections

If you do start to feel under the weather, it is important to take quick action to protect your health and prevent the spread of illness to others. By following these simple steps, you can recover more comfortably and help keep you and your loved ones safe.

If you are experiencing any cold or flu symptoms, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Are Allergy Symptoms Worsening?

Posted on May 14, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As we enter the height of spring, seasonal allergy symptoms may seem to be getting worse for those who suffer from them.

Seasonal allergy symptoms can include:

Sneezing
A runny or stuffy nose
Watery, itchy eyes
Itchy sinuses, throat, or ear canals
Ear congestion
Postnasal drainage

Public health and research organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America point to climate change as a possible contributing factor to worsening allergy seasons.

Due to the warmer temperatures, pollinating plants experience earlier and longer growing seasons, which allows them to produce more pollen.

“Climate change impacts allergy season because the consistent rhythm of, in this case of pollen, for example, new flowers being generated through spring is all off kilter. Areas that were not pollinating at a given time are pollinating earlier, while other areas are pollinating later”, says Frederic Bertley, PhD, president and CEO of the Center of Science and Industry.

More than a quarter of adults and about 1 in 5 children experience seasonal allergies in the United States.

However, despite the increasing severity of allergy season, there are ways to decrease exposure to pollen and reduce symptoms, including:

Keeping pollen out of your home by closing doors and windows
Installing HEPA filters
Giving your home a deep clean
Washing your hands often
Tracking pollen levels before you go outdoors
Showering after being outdoors
Staying indoors if pollen levels are high

In addition to decreasing exposure, there are over-the-counter allergy medications that you can take to relieve symptoms, including:

Antihistamines
Decongestants
Nasal and oral corticosteroids

You can receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for seasonal allergies at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 206-7001.

Jamaica Hospital’s Trauma Service Wants to Educate the Public on How to “Stop the Bleed”

Posted on March 20, 2019 by Andrew Rubin

What would you if you encountered a traumatic event where someone was bleeding and no medical professional was immediately available? Jamaica Hospital’s Trauma Division wants to make you aware of a national campaign called “Stop the Bleed” that can help in these types of situations.

Uncontrolled bleeding is the number one cause of preventable death from trauma. Stop the Bleed is a national awareness campaign that was initiated by the White House in 2015 to bring attention to this very serious situation. It is a collaboration of a number of Federal agencies, non- profit organizations and corporations. The purpose of this campaign is to teach as many people as possible what to do when faced with a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. When an emergency arises often the first people on the scene will be non-medical professionals without much training in first aid. This campaign serves to train as many people as possible on what to do until help arrives.

These are the ABC’s to follow when someone is bleeding: :

A – Alert
Either call 9-1-1 or have another bystander make the call
B – Bleeding
Find the source of the bleed
C – Compress
Apply pressure to stop the bleeding. Cover the wound with a clean cloth and apply pressure with both hands, apply a tourniquet when possible, or pack the wound with gauze or a clean cloth

In addition it is important to assess the situation so that you can ensure your own safety. When it is possible, you should protect yourself from blood and blood products by using gloves and other protective gear when available.

If you would like to obtain more information on learning how to Stop the Bleeding, please visit the website

Home Remedy for an Upset Tummy…

Posted on December 12, 2018 by Joann Ariola

The Chinese have used ginger to treat nausea and digestive issues for over 2,000 years. While research has debated the extent of its effectiveness as a natural remedy, it’s thought that active components, such as gingerol, directly affect the digestive and central nervous systems.

Most doctors and herbal medicine practitioners agree that using fresh ginger in teas and water or natural ginger candies will help relieve nausea, especially during pregnancy. Some studies suggest it is an effective treatment for post-operative and chemotherapy-related nausea, as well.

Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help boost immunity. Bottom line, there are no disadvantages to ingesting a little ginger to help ease nausea and digestive issues.

Home Remedy for and Upset Tummy

Posted on December 11, 2017 by Joann Ariola

Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help boost immunity. Bottom line, there are no disadvantages to ingesting a little ginger to help ease nausea and digestive issues.

Treating a Sore Throat

Posted on October 5, 2017 by Andrew Rubin

One of the most common causes of a sore throat is a viral infection, such as from a cold. A sore throat can also be due to a bacterial infection such as strep throat, or irritation from pollutants including smoke, allergies, and dryness.

Once a diagnosis is made, the symptoms of a sore throat can be treated. Over the counter medication can be used to relieve some of the symptoms. When the cause of the sore throat is bacterial, an antibiotic may have to be prescribed by a physician. If the sore throat is being caused by exposure to an irritant it is a good idea to stay away from the substance that is causing the problem.

Home remedies for the symptoms of a sore throat include:

Rest
Drinking fluids
Warm liquids
Gargling with warm salt water
Lozenges

If you would like to schedule an appointment with a physician at Jamaica Hospital, please call

What’s Bugging You?

Posted on July 5, 2017 by Joann Ariola

Summer usually means picnics and family reunions, but it also means a reunion with insects that can wreak havoc on outdoor activities. Follow these tips to minimize the potential for bug bites and bee stings.

When outdoors – especially in wooded areas – wear long sleeves, pants, and socks to help protect your skin from insect bites. Be aware that insects may be drawn to scented soaps and perfumes. Also, cover food and drain or dump standing water, which attracts most insects.

Mosquito bites can be more than just annoying and itchy, they can also make you really sick. Using insect repellent is the best way to protect yourself and your family, especially when traveling overseas. Repellent is the best way to prevent diseases like Zika that are primarily spread by mosquitoes.

Treating Bites and Bee Stings

If a sting occurs, remove the stinger as soon as possible by scraping the area with your fingernail or something with a flat surface, such as a credit card. For bee and wasp stings and non-poisonous spider bites, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and apply ice to reduce swelling. Continue to wash two or three times daily until the skin has healed.

Severe Reactions

If you are stung in the mouth, seek medical attention immediately. Severe swelling occurs quickly in oral mucous membranes and can block airways, making breathing difficult or impossible.

If you have a severe reaction to a bug bite, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Room or call 911. Otherwise Jamaica Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center is available to help, to schedule an appointment, please call 718-206-7001.

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A Remedy For Heartburn

Posted on December 13, 2016 by Xavia Malcolm

Believe it or not, chewing gum may be used as an alternative remedy for alleviating the symptoms of heartburn. Studies have shown that chewing on a piece of gum helps to produce saliva which is alkaline in composition and forces fluids back into the stomach. These fluids aid in neutralizing the acids that cause the burning sensation that is associated with heartburn.

Dentists recommend chewing sugar-free gum, as sugary gums can damage tooth enamel and lead to cavities. It is suggested that peppermint flavored-gums be avoided as the ingredient may cause the lower esophageal sphincter to open and relax. This can allow gastric acids to get into the esophagus and trigger heartburn symptoms.

Chewing gum is only a temporary solution, if you suffer from chronic heartburn; please monitor your diet and lifestyle. Avoiding foods that commonly trigger heartburn such as citrus, coffee or alcohol can be beneficial. Additionally, if you are a smoker, it is best to quit. Smoking can affect the efficiency of the muscles of the esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of symptoms to develop. If your heartburn persists, it is recommended that you schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Home Remedies for Dandruff

Posted on July 5, 2016 by Jamaica Hospital Medical Center

Dandruff, the tiny white or yellow flakes of skin that are shed by the scalp is a major source of concern for many people. It can be caused by having dry scalp, psoriasis, eczema or an inflammatory skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis.

Dandruff can be treated with several over the counter and prescription products. However if you choose to try a natural approach, there are a few items that can be found in your home that may help in providing relief. Here are a few:

Aspirin – take two crushed aspirins and mix it with your shampoo. Leave the mixture on the hair for two minutes then rinse.
Baking soda – apply a handful to your wet hair and after a few minutes rinse with water.
Apple cider vinegar – mix a quarter cup of it with a quarter cup of water and apply to your hair. Leave it on for 15 minutes to an hour then rinse thoroughly. Apply twice a week.
Coconut oil – apply three to five teaspoons of coconut oil to your scalp and let it sit for an hour. Shampoo normally after each treatment.
Lemon juice – massage two teaspoons of lemon juice into your scalp and rinse thoroughly. Then apply one teaspoon of lemon juice mixed with one cup of water. Repeat daily.
Aloe vera – massage this into your scalp prior to washing your hair. It helps to prevent the itchiness of dry skin.
Olive oil – massages about ten drops into your scalp and cover your head with a shower cap overnight. In the morning you can shampoo your hair normally.

It is believed that most of these remedies work because of their moisturizing, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

It is advised that you consult your doctor before applying these products and if your dandruff still persists after application.

Natural Ways to Revive Your Skin This Spring

Posted on March 29, 2016 by Xavia Malcolm

Now that winter is over and the days are getting warmer, you are probably going to wear clothing that shows more of your skin. Unfortunately for many of us the cold and dry winter months has taken a toll, leaving our skin dry, cracked and dull- just simply not at its best. The good news is you can help revive your skin and bring back its beauty by doing the following:

Exfoliate –Exfoliating helps remove dry and dead skin cells from the surface. The benefits of exfoliation include an increase in cell turnover, healthier skin cells, improved texture, softer and brighter skin. It is recommended that you exfoliate once or twice a week but each individual is different and should consult a dermatologist about frequency. Using a home-made body scrub is one of the ways you can exfoliate. The most popular scrubs that can be made at home are salt or brown sugar scrubs combined with oils such as coconut, olive or grapeseed.
Moisturize-It is likely that winter has depleted moisture from your skin. Replace moisture by using honey; which is loaded with antioxidants, oils such as olive oil or believe it or not yogurt. It is suggested that you apply yogurt to skin, leave it on for 10 minutes then wash it off to reveal skin that looks refreshed. Applying hydrating masks to the face can help with suppleness. You can include natural moisturizing ingredients such as avocado or bananas in your mask.
More water- Water is good for skin because it combats dehydration, which can make your skin appear drier. Keeping hydrated helps your organs to work better, this includes your biggest organ- your skin. Eating foods with high water content such apples or melons can also help with hydration.

Following these after-winter skin care tips can help you in putting your best spring skin forward; however, it is strongly recommended that you speak with a physician before trying them; especially if you have food allergies or chronic illnesses such as diabetes or hypertension.