Ask COVID Health

Do I need to drink 8 glasses of water each day?

Most healthy people can meet their daily fluid needs by drinking when they are thirsty.

What is body mass index (BMI)?

BMI may not be the best way to assess health risks linked to excess weight.

Are vaccines safe?

Vaccines are tested for safety, but like all medical products, they can sometimes cause side effects.

Who should receive COVID-19 vaccine boosters?

Older people, immunocompromised people and those with underlying health conditions can benefit most from additional shots.

How much sleep do I need each night?

Getting enough sleep provides improves your mood, helps maintain a healthy weight and may boost your immune system.

How can I tell if I have a cold, the flu or COVID-19?

These three respiratory illnesses—and others—share many of the same symptoms.

Should I get an annual flu shot?

Influenza is a serious illness that can cause death, and the vaccine is the best way to avoid getting the flu.

How much alcohol can I safely drink?

Experts recommend no more than two drinks for men or one drink for women per day.

Can an aspirin a day prevent heart attacks and strokes?

Some studies suggest aspirin therapy may also help lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

How important is it to walk 10,000 steps a day?

People who sit less and do any amount of physical activity gain some health benefits.

What are the recommended cancer screening tests?

The early cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat.

What are the health consequences of overweight and obesity?

Excess weight, which is often linked to metabolic abnormalities, can contribute to a wide variety of health problems.

Mutations, variants, strains? How are viruses classified?

Mutations can affect how viruses behave and how well drugs and vaccines work.

Antibodies attacking SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19

How long does COVID-19 immunity last?

Long-lived memory immune cells continue to provide protection even after antibody levels drop.

What are the latest diet and nutrition guidelines?

New guidelines recommend focusing on healthy foods but don’t restrict added sugars or alcohol as much as some experts had hoped.

Who can safely receive COVID-19 vaccines?

People with HIV, people with cancer and pregnant people can be vaccinated against the coronavirus.