How to Stay Healthy
Get tips to help you stay healthy and cope with COVID-19.
Back to School: Bus, Bike and Car Safety During COVID-19
Posted August 31, 2020
As educators and parents prepare for children to return to school safely during COVID-19, there are new anxiety-inducing concerns facing families. While much of the discussion has focused on what happens inside school, it’s important to consider safety precautions when traveling to and from school.
Helping Your Child Get Used to Masks
Posted August 31, 2020
Wearing masks or cloth face coverings is an important way to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect our community, but this can be challenging for children. Read the Q&A and watch the video.
Child Water Safety: Four Steps to Prevent Drowning
Posted August 31, 2020
Seventy percent of children age 4 and under who drown were not expected to be at or in the water, according to a study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Read what you can do to keep kids safe..
Frequently Asked Questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine Process
Posted August 21, 2020
UVM Medical Center Infectious Disease specialists answer questions ranging from how do vaccines work to prevent illness to why there are so many vaccine trials in development for COVID-19. Learn about vaccines.
Behind the Scenes with a Pandemic Response Team
Posted August 13, 2020
Late one evening in mid-March, CVMC infectious disease specialist Jessica Leyse, MD, read the latest evidence on the transmission of COVID-19 and concluded: “We have to mask everybody at CVMC.” Our infection prevention experts recall the early days of the COVID-19 crisis, and how their experience will inform our future response.
What to Expect at the Dentist During COVID-19
Posted August 11, 2020
The mouth is a "gateway" to your body, and impacts overall health. With dental offices now open, don't put off your next visit. As we all adjust to living long-term with COVID-19, learn what to expect for your first appointment back.
Miracle Micro-Preemie Triplets Overcome the Odds
Posted August 10, 2020
After four long months in the NICU, the DeShane family and their miracle care team got these triplets home to meet their siblings. Read the remarkable story of births that spanned days, months, years and decades.
‘We’re Not Wired to Be Isolated’
Posted August 3, 2020
When the state prohibited large group gatherings, agencies and organizations that assist people in recovery from substance use disorder across Vermont pivoted to provide their services remotely. Learn how organizations maintained connections and continued to support people in recovery during these difficult times.
Living in the Here and Now With COVID-19
Posted July 29, 2020
If you step outside and gaze at Vermont’s proud mountains, you could almost believe there’s no virus out there, but make no mistake, COVID-19 is here, and we must remain vigilant. We talked to some local physicians about where we are in this pandemic, what we know about the virus and what we can expect for the foreseeable future.
Prevent Falls to Avoid Osteoporosis Complications
Posted July 28, 2020
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every four adults age 65 and older will fall. If the pandemic has led to a decrease in your daily exercise, this could put you at greater risk of falling. Read our tips on how to prevent falls at home and what to do if you do fall.
Caring for Your Grandchildren? Set Yourself up for Success
Posted July 28, 2020
While our communities slowly re-open, many grandparents may find themselves providing care for their grandchildren. Learn how to establish an open dialogue with your child and their spouse in order to prevent potential conflicts.
Smoking Took Her Husband and Her Son. Now She’s Ready to Quit.
Posted July 24, 2020
Marilyn Powell knows all too well about the impacts of smoking. She has no doubt that smoking contributed to the death of her father, her husband, even her oldest son who passed away in his sleep at 39 years old. But as any ex-smoker knows, that is easier said than done. Learn more about the smoking cessation care she received during COVID-19.
Mask Myths: Does a Mask Limit My Oxygen Intake?
Posted July 16, 2020
Gill Allen, MD, a pulmonologist and critical care physician at the University of Vermont Medical Center and professor at the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, dispels some myths and answers popular questions about the efficacy of face masks.
Still Working From Home? Set Yourself up for Success
Posted July 10, 2020
Let’s face it, our homes are not necessarily equipped to be our workspaces, yet ergonomics is essential to your working environment – wherever it is – to prevent stress on your body. These ergonomic basics will keep you comfortable and productive during your working days from home.
He Was Concerned About a Heart Attack, a Bigger Concern Than COVID-19
Posted July 10, 2020
In early June, Dan Clark, 65, woke up in the middle of the night with “major” heart burn and a tingling feeling in his left shoulder, hand and arm. Learn how his care team quickly responded, safely getting him the care he needed.
Waiting for This Life-Saving Procedure Wasn't an Option
Posted July 10, 2020
Daniel Novembrino, 83, could barely make it across the kitchen of his home without fighting for breath. Although COVID-19 ceased non-elective surgeries and procedures, without surgery, Novembrino was risking his life. Learn about the life-saving cardiac procedure called TAVR that Novembrino underwent that allowed him to be back home the next day.
Top 5 Questions About Safe Summer Celebrations
Posted July 2, 2020
Summer is here and you’re likely asking yourself what is safe? And how do I participate in my usual summer activities? We asked Central Vermont Medical Center infectious disease physician Jessie Leyse, MD, MPH for her advice on staying safe this summer.
Celebrating With Fireworks on the Fourth of July? Expert Advice for Staying Safe.
Posted June 30, 2020
With local cities and towns cancelling fireworks due to COVID-19, we expect an increase in fireworks displays being set from peoples’ backyards, so let’s talk safety. If you choose to light fireworks at home, please follow these safety tips.
ATV Injury Cases Triple Prompting Safety Warning
Posted June 30, 2020
All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) are a popular recreational activity and they can be a useful tool for those who own large areas of land or farms, however the UVM Medical Center reports a threefold increase in ATV-related injuries in the Emergency Department this season. Here’s our guidance for riding safely.
Celebrating Life, Family and Survival
Posted June 26, 2020
After fighting and winning his battle against Covid-19, Albert LaDuke is back with his family and the things he enjoys - especially his scratch-off tickets. His treatment and rehabilitation at the UVM Health Network helped him build strength and independence so he could return home. Read Albert LaDuke's story.
Got Back Pain? These Patients Got Care Without Leaving Home
Posted June 17, 2020
With limited in-person appointments available, Joseph Van Horn and Raymond Mitchell describe how they were able to receive orthopedic care for back injuries. Learn how they both got care during COVID-19.
Unsafe at Home: COVID-19 Isolation Increases Risk for LGBTQ+ Community
Posted June 12, 2020
During Pride Month, it's important to be aware that our LGBTQ+ community has faced increased mental health and safety risks due to COVID-19 isolation. Learn what you should know.
I’m At–Risk for COVID-19. How Do Older Adults Get Care, and Stay Safe?
Posted June 5, 2020
As we shift to a longer-term acceptance of our new reality, many patients in our older adult population have been asking great questions about their health, their risks, and how to live a healthy lifestyle while social distancing. UVM Medical Center geriatrician Amelia Gennari, MD answers your questions.
Bouncing and Playing in the Backyard, Safely
Posted June 11, 2020
Trampolines and bounce houses are fun and present a great way for kids to expend all that extra energy, but they come with risks. Learn basic ground rules to follow to reduce the risk of serious injury.
COVID-19 Antibody Testing and Immunity
Posted June 5, 2020
There has been much discussion in the media on the use of serology (antibody) testing in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of this information is misleading, setting unrealistic expectations on how we could use testing to re-open the economy, or identify a person’s COVID-19 immunity status. Let’s debunk some of the myths surrounding this test.
Welcome Back: We’ve Got You Covered
Posted May 22, 2020
Health care facilities across our region are now resuming in-person elective procedures and appointments. See what's changed at our locations to keep you safe at your next appointment. Learn what is new.
North Country Man Got Care, When and Where He Needed It Most
Posted May 22, 2020
In early April, Clayton K. Trimm of North Lawrence was facing a dilemma. He was worried about how he could receive the medical care he needed while still helping to flatten the curve of COVID-19 infections. Check out how video visits worked for Clayton.
Dining Out, Public Beaches and Hugs? Here’s Expert COVID-19 Guidance
Posted May 22, 2020
Infectious disease expert Tim Lahey, MD, answers your latest questions about being outside our homes as businesses reopen and stay-at-home orders begin to relax. Get your answers.
With Stroke, Seconds Count
Posted May 22, 2020
May is Stroke Awareness Month. Neurologist Christopher Commichau, MD, talks about signs of stroke, and how fear shouldn't keep us from getting needed care. Learn the signs and symptoms of stroke.
Poisoned From Foraging: Wild Ramp or False Hellebore?
Posted May 22, 2020
The UVM Medical Center Emergency Department has seen a spike in poisonings from people ingesting a plant called false hellebore that they thought were wild ramps. Find out how to tell the difference and what to do if you eat hellebore.
‘Miracle’ Technology Is Keeping Nursing Home Residents Safe and Engaged
Posted May 15, 2020
If there’s one thing Nancy Durham has learned in her role as activities director at Helen Porter Rehabilitation & Nursing in Middlebury, Vermont, it’s this: “You don’t mess with Bingo,” she says. “Pandemic or no pandemic, Bingo will go on.” Find out how seniors are embracing technology.
Two-Year-Old Handles Speech Video Visits Like a Rock Star
Posted May 14, 2020
Two-year-old Reed flashes a wide grin at the tablet on his kitchen table in Colchester, Vermont. Alexis St. Croix, a pediatric speech-language pathologist with UVM Health Network’s Home Health & Hospice, smiles back and waves at her young client and his mom, Ashley Hurlbut, thanks to a pediatric video visit. Learn how easy video visits can be.
Getting Used to Our “New Normal”
Posted May 14, 2020
With a majority of states relaxing restrictions on staying home, people may feel a growing temptation to return to their pre-pandemic lives. In this Q&A, we discuss how to manage the natural urge to socialize, how to understand our reactions and feelings, and how to establish new, healthy routines to help us cope with our “new normal.” Read our FAQs.
Have You Always Been Curious About Gardening? Here’s the New Victory Garden
Posted May 14, 2020
Growing food for yourself or your family is empowering and benefits both mental and physical health. Growing a few things at home can help reduce the number of trips to the grocery store and can make a big impact in your weekly food budget. Learn how to grow your own victory garden.
Delaying Care Is Dangerous: One Patient’s Journey
Posted May 8, 2020
When Priscilla Baker called her doctor about a pain in her abdomen, she didn’t think twice about how health care has changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. She knew she needed care, and she needed it now. Read Priscilla's story.
Hear From Our Pediatric Experts: COVID-19 Q&A
Posted May 8, 2020
Got questions about your child’s health care during COVID-19? We are here for you. Watch our recent Facebook Live with pediatric experts Lewis First, MD, Chief of Pediatrics at UVM Children’s Hospital, Keith Robinson, MD, pediatric pulmonologist and Vice Chair of Population Health and Quality Improvement, and pediatric infectious disease physician Ben Lee, MD.
Spring Fever Is Healthy, Injuries Are Not
Posted May 8, 2020
The signs of spring are outside my window. With nowhere to go, I know I’m not the only one tempted to tackle all the yard work projects that have been pushed off due to life and busy schedules. But, accidents do happen. Learn more about accident prevention and where to go if you are hurt.
A Mother’s Story: Delivering a Baby During COVID-19
Posted May 7, 2020
Ever since the pandemic began, I have had a lot of ups and downs and mixed emotions. So much of pregnancy is about preparation, and with everything changing so quickly and frequently, it was hard to feel completely ready for the birth of my first child. Read this personal story from a local mother who recently delivered her child at UVM Medical Center.
Avoiding the Emergency Room? Waiting Could Be Worse
Posted May 1, 2020
Illness and injuries happen. During the COVID-19 pandemic, University of Vermont Health Network providers have found a concerning trend: people are delaying the care they need. Learn why delaying care can pose a greater risk than viral exposure.
Had Enough? You Might Be Suffering From Compassion Fatigue
Posted May 1, 2020
If you find yourself muttering “I. Can’t. Even” more and more often as the COVID-19 pandemic wears on, you might be suffering from “compassion fatigue.” Aron Steward, PhD, chief of psychology at UVM Health Network’s Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, says no one is immune during this uncertain time and offers some guidance to keep compassion fatigue at bay.
The Latest COVID-19 Symptoms, Questions and Answers From Infectious Disease Expert Tim Lahey, MD
Posted April 30, 2020
Experts are learning more all the time about the highly contagious respiratory illness known as COVID-19. Get the latest information and expert guidance from Tim Lahey, MD, MMSC, an infectious diseases doctor at the University of Vermont Medical Center.
5 Strategies to Help With COVID-19 Changes, Stress and Worry
Posted April 30, 2020
In this video series, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital Robert Althoff, MD, Chief of Psychiatry, and Aron Steward, PhD, Chief of Psychology, provide helpful coping strategies and important perspective for us all to consider as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch our videos for handling anxiety and stress.
Cooking From Your Pantry: Pasta Fagioli
Posted April 30, 2020
Most of us have much more time at home these days than we used to, but we’re also making fewer trips to the grocery store and are trying to buy ingredients that will last. With a few common ingredients learn how to make pasta fagioli a healthy, cost-effective soup that’s delicious, comforting and great for leftovers.
Don’t Wait to Get the Care You Need - Video Visits are Available
Posted April 24, 2020
Whether it be an illness, injury, or ongoing medical condition that needs attention, please know that our primary care providers across the UVM Health Network are open and ready to provide care. Find out how it works and hear from a patient.
Avoid Poisonings During Pandemic: Five COVID-19 Safety and Cleaning Tips
Posted April 24, 2020
Our poison prevention expert shares advice for safely using and storing cleaners, and debunks myths about drinking disinfectants. Get key safety steps for cleaning at home.
Surviving a Serious Case of COVID-19
Posted April 22, 2020
Three days after he was put on a mechanical ventilator, Richard Pritsky awakened to see members of his care team assembled around his bed at UVM Medical Center, the unmistakable look of relief in their eyes. He had been successfully extubated, brought out of deep sedation, and was breathing on his own. Hear from Richard and his care team on how he survived COVID-19.
Understanding Grief, Resilience and the New “War” at Home
Posted April 22, 2020
Shira R. Louria, PsyD, a psychologist at UVM Medical Center, shares the lessons she learned living through several wars and applies this unique insight to help us face this global health crisis. Learn how to process our reactions and cultivate hope.
Nursing in a ‘Hot Zone’ Fighting COVID-19
Posted April 22, 2020
Joanne Rheaume, DNP, RN, CEN, CPHQ, a nurse manager of urgent care and infusion at UVM Medical Center’s Fanny Allen campus, writes about what it is like to be in the thick of COVID-19 care, with days long and full and racked with the stress and anxiety from this disease. Read Joanne's account of work life during a pandemic started.
Child Stress During the Pandemic
Posted April 22, 2020
In his previous article, Dr. Lewis First shared tips for parents on how to relieve the stress of spending so much time with your children at home and feeling isolated from the rest of the world. Now, he focuses on helping children reduce their fears and anxieties during this coronavirus pandemic.
Trouble Sleeping During COVID-19? Advice From an Expert
Posted April 17, 2020
When talk of the coronavirus first started, my 8-year-old daughter was coming downstairs 20 minutes after we had put her to bed, which was unusual for her. At first, she couldn’t explain why she was having trouble sleeping, but as COVID-19 quickly became an inescapable part of our lives, we knew this must be the cause. Read five tips to get your best night’s sleep every night.
Preserving Access to MAT During a Pandemic
Posted April 17, 2020
Prescribing regulations for buprenorphine have been relaxed to keep recovery on track during Vermont’s state of emergency and stay-at-home order. Learn how providers are connecting with patients through video visits and phone calls.
Parent Stress During the Pandemic
Posted April 16, 2020
Dealing with the Coronavirus on an ongoing basis can be stressful enough. Factor in being at home with your children for the rest of the school year while still trying to get things done for your job or just keeping the house in order and the stress multiplies. Get some tips for coping from Lewis First, MD, Chief of Pediatrics at The University of Vermont Children’s Hospital.
Vermont Recovery Services Are Now a Single Call Away
Posted April 16, 2020
Vermont Department of Health launches VTHelplink Referral Resource to help people with substance use disorder access services during the COVID-19 crisis. Learn about VTHelpLink services.
Ready to Mask Up? Here’s What You Need to Know
Posted April 14, 2020
Some experts are now recommending that you wear a cloth mask when you need to be in public settings. Learn what you need to know about making and wearing cloth face coverings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the UVM Health Network.
Sacrificing to Save Lives: Why Some Health Care Workers Won't Go Home and How You Can Help
Posted April 10, 2020
Like many health care workers across the country, UVM Medical Center nurse Kathleen Keenan moved out of her home weeks ago to protect her family. If she can stay away from her children, we can all do our part too and stay home and help save lives by slowing the spread of COVID-19. Learn how for Kathleen and others, the stay home message is personal.
Family Gatherings, Holidays and More: Additional Tips on Celebrating Missed Milestones During Covid-19
Posted April 10, 2020
It is disappointing to cancel family gatherings, traditions and other big milestones due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines. Here are some of our ideas and recommendations on how to celebrate these events without exposing yourself, or your loved ones, to infection.
Staying Healthy at Home Resources
Posted April 10, 2020
It’s more important than ever that we all stay home to slow the spread of COVID-19. Find information on how to protect yourself, cleaning and disinfecting your home, and self-isolating if you are sick.
Coping With the Stress of Isolation
Posted April 10, 2020
We are social beings and so it is important for us to stay socially active and connected while we experience and practice physical distancing. In fact, research supports that remaining connected to our community and to ourselves improves our immune system response. Learn how to connect while distancing.
Feeling Down? Anxious? Try This 3-Minute Activity During COVID-19
Posted April 10, 2020
Mindfulness techniques, like meditation, have been shown to help in the management of stress and depression. Find out how it can help, and check out free apps to guide you.
Helping Your Teenager Cope With the Quarantine
Posted April 10, 2020
At a time in life when it’s both developmentally appropriate and culturally expected to seek independence from parents or guardians, teenagers have suddenly been brought back to the nest. Living in close quarters may be especially tough for this age group, and helping them cope will involve listening, empathy and patience.
Got Security Concerns About Connecting With Your Doctor via Video? We Have Answers.
Posted April 9, 2020
Recently, you may have heard reports of security and privacy issues with Zoom and we want to reassure you that the Zoom program that UVM Health Network has implemented across our practices is secure and private. Learn about the protections we have in place.
Going Stir-Crazy? Ideas for Low-Risk Outdoor Activities
Posted April 9, 2020
It’s tempting during this time of important social isolation to sit on the couch or get motivated to tackle those big household projects. Either way, it’s important to get moving, but stay safe. Get ideas on safe ways to exercise.
COVID-19 Answers From Infectious Disease Expert Tim Lahey, MD
Posted April 6, 2020
As we seek to protect ourselves and our loved ones while preventing the spread of COVID-19, accurate information and expert guidance is more important than ever. Here, Tim Lahey, MD, an infectious diseases doctor and professor of medicine at the University of Vermont’s Larner School of Medicine and the University of Vermont Medical Center, offers his take on some of our most pressing questions, as well as some personal perspective. Get answers about COVID-19.
How to Clean a Car Seat to Prevent Infections
Posted April 6, 2020
With increased vigilance to prevent infections, parents and caregivers may be considering cleaning their child’s car seat. Here are our tips and advice to do so safely.
Safety Tips for Household Cleaning and Medication Storage During COVID-19
Posted April 6, 2020
Based on the empty shelves at the grocery store, it seems like everyone is stocked up on cleaning products and medications as they self-isolate at home. We want to make sure that you are keeping yourself and any children in your home safe, not only from the virus, but from potential dangerous situations. Learn how to stay safe.
Keeping Your Teeth Healthy During COVID-19
Posted April 6, 2020
The efforts to contain and reduce the spread of the novel COVID-19 virus included dental offices closing their doors for all non-emergent dental procedures. This likely affected many of you and your families. We’ve received many interesting questions about preserving dental health. Let’s take a look at answers to some of these questions.
Acknowledging Your Stress During COVID-19
Posted April 2, 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) has impacted every aspect of our lives, from the way we shop for food, school our children, converse with others and work – or not. The very foundations of our community have been shaken. This is a lot to accept and we should give ourselves the patience and understanding to acknowledge how truly difficult this time is for both our physical and mental health. Learn ways to keep ourselves at balance.
The Doctor Is In: Find out How You Can See Your Doctor From Home
Posted March 27, 2020
The University of Vermont Health Network has significantly expanded video conferencing in Vermont and New York in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn how it works.
COVID-19: Anxiety Is Normal, What You Can Do to Cope
Posted March 27, 2020
Anxiety is natural response to threats that are looming or beyond our control. Here are some strategies that may help you stay healthy and connected in the midst of this pandemic. Tips for coping with anxiety.
Social Distancing...With Children
Posted March 26, 2020
If you are feeling overwhelmed, or at a loss as to what you can do to keep your children occupied while practicing social distancing, Safe Kids Vermont is here to help with tips for free activities that will keep you safe, healthy and only require what you already have around your home. Get tips for free activities with your kids.
Cancelled Birthday Party? No Graduation? Tips on Celebrating Missed Milestones During COVID-19
Posted March 26, 2020
It can be hard to deal with the emotional response when you cancel these events as they are often related to some of life’s most exciting milestones. We offer some of ideas and recommendations on how to celebrate these events without exposing yourself, or your loved ones, to infection. Get ideas for safely celebrating milestones.
To Help Us Save Lives, Stay at Home
Posted March 25, 2020
Slowing the spread of the virus will help us care for those who need it most. When you must go out, to work or the grocery store, try to keep six feet distance from others. During school closures, keep your children at home. Learn why staying home helps #FlattenTheCurve.
How to Care for Yourself and Protect Others If You Test Positive
Posted March 25, 2020
Learn how to care for yourself and others if you test positive for COVID-19. While you cannot be treated for the virus with antibiotics or antivirals, you should self isolate and take these steps to support your recovery.
Breathe In, Breathe Out: How to Deal with Stress Due to COVID-19
Posted March 25, 2020
Nowadays, it seems as though the only thing people are talking about is the Coronavirus, or COVID-19, a topic that brings up a lot of strong feelings of worry and anxiety. Learn new and different ways to manage our stress.
How to Boost Your Immunity to Fight COVID-19
Posted March 25, 2020
We are just reaching the peak of flu season, and with the addition of COVID-19, finding ways to boost your immune system has never been more important. Learn some tips and tricks on how to remain at my healthiest during this time.
