In the past nine months or so since Covid-19 made its appearance in the United States, you’ve probably heard the term “herd immunity” come up in various conversations and news articles. Phrases like, “we just need to get herd immunity” or “that country has better numbers because they’ve achieved herd immunity” may have you wondering, what exactly is herd immunity and why is it important to the Covid-19 pandemic? Here’s a quick look at herd immunity and how a vaccine will help achieve it.

During this time of uncertainty, we are all required to pay close attention to precautions and guidelines set forth by the California Department of Public Health. It can be difficult to pivot our plans and continually have to adjust, especially when it comes to visiting a loved one in a skilled nursing facility.

On November 23, 2020, Orchard Hospital plans to begin “in facility visitation” at Hovlid Community Care Center. There are strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety of the residents, visitors, and staff.

Chances are high that you know someone with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). More than 16 million Americans have been diagnosed with this debilitating lung disease and it is estimated that millions more have it and don’t know. This November for National COPD Awareness Month, join Orchard Hospital in raising awareness about COPD.

Getting a flu shot can help protect yourself and others from the seasonal flu. This year, getting your flu shot is more important than ever. In the wake of Covid-19, many people may be concerned about leaving home to get the flu vaccine, but there is a safe and convenient way to still get a flu shot without leaving your car!

Nothing is more essential than your health. Being prepared is the best way to protect yourself and others from being exposed and potentially spreading Covid-19. A few simple steps can make all the difference for yourself, your family, and your community.

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). This annual observance highlights the importance of getting recommended vaccines throughout your life. You have the power to protect yourself and your family against serious diseases, like whooping cough, cancers caused by HPV, pneumonia, and more through on-time vaccination.

During this new season of COVID-19, social distancing, and working from home, many people are feeling a lot more stress, which can lead to negative affect on our bodies. The obvious are weigh gain, lack of sleep, and lethargy, but our bones and muscles can also suffer. Many people are used to going to the chiropractor to help them deal with stress and other issues, but is this even an option?

The Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization advise the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the Covid-19 virus, and help people who may have it, but do not know it, from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings can be used as an additional public health measure.

Masks don't make you invincible, and they absolutely can't replace good hygiene, but along with washing your hands and practicing social distancing, they can help.

Whether or not to wear a face mask in the wake of Covid-19 is a hot debate. Do they really work? Are they just for public perception? A mask acts as a barrier to prevent the spread of the virus, but it only works when worn correctly.

Talking about preventative healthcare and getting annual checkups should be a regular thing for men, but unfortunately that isn’t the case. It’s because of this crisis that Men’s Health has one month a year (June) to be nationally recognized. The goal is to help heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.

Men’s Health Month is all about informing men (young and elderly) on health concerns they need to look out for, ways to stay healthy, and continue to encourage them to visit their nearest health facility for regular checkups.

A healthcare tradition since 1921, National Hospital Week celebrates hospitals and the men and women who support the health of their communities through dedication and compassionate care. It also recognizes the miracles they help make happen on a day to day basis, both large and small.

Now more than ever, this important week gives us all the opportunity to highlight our hospital, health systems, and health care workers and the innovative ways they are supporting the needs of our community members during this pandemic.