Health Topics

Find information on many health topics, listed A to Z.

COVID-19

Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases, such as MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome) and SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome). Coronaviruses are transmitted between animals and people. The new strain is called COVID-19 acute respiratory disease (novel coronavirus),

In The News

Fairmont to open temporary respiratory clinic for COVID-19 patients

Fairmont will be transitioning the care of outpatients with COVID-19 symptoms to a temporary respiratory clinic located in an unused clinical space adjacent to the main clinic.

June 19, 2020
Heatstroke prevention tips

While outdoor activities are healthy for the mind and body, it’s important also to factor in precautionary measures to prevent heat-related injuries when you’re far from climate-controlled...

June 17, 2020
Mower County Announces “Community Health First” Local Approach to Fighting COVID-19

Healthcare, Community and Businesses Partners to Create a COVID-19 Action Plan.

June 12, 2020
HealthFinders Collaborative offers COVID-19 testing in Faribault

Testing expands Rice County’s response to the pandemic, especially for the underserved

May 20, 2020
Donations of handmade cloth masks requested

Mayo Clinic Health System is requesting community donations of fabric masks to help keep patients, visitors and staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

May 12, 2020
Mayo Clinic Health System locations in Minnesota expand in-person care options, elective surgeries

Upon careful review of patient needs and our practice, and in alignment with the executive orders from Governor Walz and the Minnesota Department of Health, Mayo Clinic Health System locations in M...

May 5, 2020
Mayo Clinic Health System locations in Wisconsin expand in-person care options, elective surgeries

Upon careful review of patient needs and our practice, and in alignment with the executive orders from Governor Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Mayo Clinic Health System in L...

May 1, 2020
Video visits rolled out to keep homebound patients connected to care

Patients don’t have to be tech-savvy to take advantage of online care.

April 17, 2020
Guidelines for community donations

Guidelines are intended to help provide direction for specified donations and locations where donations are accepted in Southeast Minnesota.

April 14, 2020
Patients and visitors required to wear masks when at Mayo Clinic Health System facilities

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, Mayo Clinic Health System continues to assess and adjust practices to best protect the safety of patients, visitors and staff.

April 13, 2020
Patients and visitors required to wear masks when at Mayo Clinic Health System facilities

Beginning Monday, April 13, patients and visitors will be required to wear a personal homemade or cloth mask while on any Mayo property and are highly encouraged to bring their own cloth masks to h...

April 12, 2020
Clinical operations temporarily changed in Northwest Wisconsin

Select clinics and services in Northwest Wisconsin will switch to phone and video visits only beginning April 13.

April 9, 2020

From The Blog

Can a dog really improve heart health? Cardiologist weighs in

Dog adoption rates rose earlier this year during COVID-19 stay-at-home orders. There are emotional and social benefits of pet ownership, but did you know that dogs may make our hearts healthier? A cardiologist weighs in on the heart-healthy benefits of your canine companion.

Tahir Tak MD By Tahir Tak August 4, 2020

COVID-19 tests: Antibody vs. diagnostic

With all the talk about COVID-19 testing in the news, it's not surprising there's some confusion about tests and how they differ. Here's what you need to know.

July 23, 2020

Neither a snowstorm nor COVID-19 pandemic stops heart surgery

The COVID-19 pandemic changed many things, but it didn't stop Ted Schleicher or his surgery team from getting his heart valve issue fixed quickly and safely.

July 14, 2020

Debunked myths about face masks

Wearing face masks can help slow the spread of COVID-19. However, there has been much debate about wearing masks and misinformation has spread online. Here are four debunked myths about wearing a mask.

Kimberly Frodl, M.D. By Kimberly Frodl July 10, 2020

Debunking COVID-19 myths

Chances are you've heard about a food, drug or other method that claims to prevent, treat or cure COVID-19. Here's a list of some of the substances and products that have been touted as ways to prevent infection with the COVID-19 virus or treat COVID-19 — and what the science says.

July 10, 2020

As we reopen, let’s keep each other safe and healthy

As the economy starts to reopen and things feel normal again, it’s sometimes easy to forget that we’re in the midst of a pandemic. Continue to do your part to keep your friends, family, co-workers and community members safe and healthy by washing your hands, wearing a mask and maintaining a safe distance from others while in public.

Paul Mueller MD By Paul Mueller June 25, 2020

Hard work and dedication leads to pay restoration for staff

The hard work, flexibility and sacrifice of staff has resulted in a better than expected return to patient care across the organization.

June 24, 2020

Don't let a fear of COVID-19 stop you from seeking needed emergency care

Fears of contracting COVID-19 has people questioning if it is safe to seek care in clinics, hospitals, but most specifically emergency departments.

June 15, 2020

Patient reflects on surgical experience during pandemic

Diane Baier needed a last-minute surgical procedure before a planned trip, but then the COVID-19 pandemic changed how health care was delivered. Learn how changes the surgical team made kept her and others safe.

June 2, 2020

Stepped-up safety measures for surgery

Chad Meacham slipped and ruptured a disk in his neck, which required surgery. Learn how enhanced safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic protect him and others during surgery.

May 26, 2020

Childhood vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, parents are thoughtful about bringing children to public spaces, including clinics. However, families should keep children on the recommended vaccine schedule. Learn why.

Jennifer Johnson DO By Jennifer Johnson May 21, 2020

Help stop the spread of respiratory illness: Masking options

The CDC recommends everyone wear a mask while in public. We'll help you find the best options for you and your family.

Joseph Krien MD By Joseph Krien May 20, 2020