Medical Monday: How Scary is Scabies?

How Scary is Scabies?

The latest outbreak of scabies has been verified at  Makalapa Elementary School in Salt Lake earlier last week. A letter has been issued to parents from the school on October 23rd by the Department of Education (DOE). The DOE said, "Several cases of scabies have been reported at Makalapa Elementary School. The health and safety of our students and staff are the utmost importance."

Check out what scabies is and how to treat, and prevent this skin infestation. 

What is Scabies?

Scabies is an infestation of the skin with mites, which are microscopic organisms called Sarcoptes scabiei. These small insects burrow under the skin and cause intense itching, especially at night. The females lay eggs under the skin, and when these hatch, the bumps and itching spread around warm, moist skin areas.

Sarcoptes Scabiei

How do you get Scabies?

Scabies are spread from close or intimate contact with an infected person, their clothing or bedding. Dogs can get a type of scabies which causes Mange, and although humans may pick up some of these bugs, they cannot reproduce on people and therefore do not cause severe symptoms for people. Treating the animal will decrease exposure for humans.

What are the symptoms of Scabies?

 From the time of exposure, it is usually three to four weeks before any symptoms develop. Initial symptoms may easily be confused with other types of insect bites or rashes.  The diagnosis of Scabies can be difficult so please see us at Island Urgent Care and we can help you to feel better now!

The Scabies are active at night, and even though other rashes may itch more at night, the night time itching from Scabies is MUCH worse. Itching and usually small bumps or lines of bumps are most often noted between the fingers, inside wrists, elbows and knees, under breasts and around nipples, waist bands, buttocks, upper thighs, scrotum and penis, and the sides and bottoms of feet. It would be extremely rare for all of these areas to be affected. The head and back are usually spared. Scratching at lesions may cause inflammation and skin infection. History of known exposure is helpful in raising suspicion of this condition. If you have had an itchy rash for several weeks that is not improving please see us at Island Urgent Care as most people don’t think about Scabies!

  Treatment Options

Various treatments are available but none will completely eradicate the itching immediately. Scrupulous cleaning of clothing and linens which might have been infested must be done to eliminate the insects. The most common treatment is the application of a cream made from permethrin (an insecticide) under brand names such as Elimite or Actincin. This medication is safer than other insecticidal creams or an oral medication that is sometimes prescribed. Treatment decisions must be made in consultation with a medical provider as these medications are only available by prescription.

Treatment tips

When a medicated cream is prescribed, the patient should shower first and then apply the cream from the neck down. The cream should be left on for eight hours and re-applied to hands and under fingernails if they have been washed during that eight hours. The cream is then showered off after eight to fourteen hours and only clean towels, linens and clothes should be used.

Itching may persist for one to two weeks after treatment due to a hypersensitivity reaction and does not mean the scabies are still alive. Itching can be controlled with anti-histamine pills. It is recommended to use Benadryl (diphenhydramine hydrochloride) at night time as it makes most people feel sleepy. For daytime use, non-sedating anti-histamines, such as Claritin (Loratidine) or Zyrtec , can control the itching without sleepiness. Over the counter hydrocortisone cream may also be helpful after the insecticidal treatment is complete to decrease inflammation.

Preventing  spreading the infection to others

Prevention of Spread to Others and Re-Infection Since Scabies is spread by close contact, those who have had close contact with an infected person might want to be treated at the same time to prevent ping-pong infections. However, the careful washing of clothes and linens must still be done by all those exposed. Since Scabies cannot live off the body for longer than 3-5 days, all clothes and linens which have been used recently should be washed with hot water and dried in a hot dryer or put away in a large plastic bag for at least 5 days before re-using. Re-infection is less likely if all of the above steps are followed. Since the insecticidal cream can be irritating, it is not recommended to retreat unless symptoms are actually getting worse after an initial improvement. If you are unsure about your diagnosis or are not feeling better , please see us at Island Urgent Care where we can see you now!

Sincerely, 

IUC Docs

For more infomation call us right away (808) 735-0007

Visit our website: IslandUrgentCare.Com 

Disease Outbreak Control Division: Scabies

In the News: 

Hawaii News Now

Khon2

Wellness Wednesday: Turkey Taco lettuce Wraps!

Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps

Love Taco Tuesday but don't love all the carbs? Check out this simple and healthy way to get your taco fix any day of the week! 

Ground Turkey: Substituting ground beef for turkey changes up the flavor of your meal. Ground turkey is low in calories but high in protein, it also contains less saturated fat and cholesterol then ground beef. When cooking with turkey make sure that the meat is cooked thoroughly with a temperature of 165 degrees F. Subbing ground turkey for beef also helps us enjoy our favorite foods while cutting down on red meat. 

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey (leaner the better. Look for 95% lean ground turkey)
• 3/4 cup yellow onion (green onions add a fun taste as well)
• 1-2 cloves of garlic (depending on your preference)
• Jar of chunky salsa (homemade is always better but for a quick meal grab a jar at the store)
• 1/2 packet Taco seasoning (low sodium)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• Iceburg or Romain lettuce leaves (please wash!)

Toppings: Add anything you like on your tacos here are some suggestions.

• Shredded cheese
• dices tomatoes
• avocado
• cilantro 
• light sour cream (optional) 
• Lime

Instructions: 

1. In a medium skillet turn on medium heat and put olive oil in the pan. After pan is heated put in ground turkey. Break up the turkey with a wooden spoon to consistent size pieces to insure even cooking. After a couple minutes add in garlic, cumin, and taco seasoning. Add some water if needed. 
2. While turkey is cooking cut up topping for the tacos and wash and dry lettuce leaves (set aside). 
3. When the turkey is almost done drain excess water and oil and stir in 1/4 or 1/2 of the jar of salsa. Cook for a couple minutes and remove from heat. 
4. Place lettuce wraps on a plate or platter and start with a spoonful of mixture and spread evenly along the lettuce wrap. (Don't fill it too full of meat because you still have all your toppings!)
5. Add toppings like onion, diced tomatoes, cilantro, cheese, avocado and a small dollop of sour cream or more salsa depending on preference. 
6. Lastly squeeze some lime on top and serve!

Serve tacos with a side of black beans and some sweet corn. Black beans are high in protein as well as fiber, folate, potassium, and vitamin B6 to support digestive and heart health. 

Another thing that is great about this recipe is it can be transformed in many ways. For example if you don't want to use the lettuce as a wrap chop it up into a salad and top with your turkey mixture and top with additional toppings. This is also a great idea for leftovers. 

Try this and let us know what you think! 

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Medical Monday: What's up with your Sinuses (Sinusitis)

Sinusitis

What is a Sinus Infection?

A sinus infection, or sinusitis (sine-uh-SI-tis), is a swelling of the lining in the sinuses. Acute sinusitis lasts for less than four weeks. Chronic sinusitis lasts for more than 12 weeks.

What are Sinuses?

There are four pairs of hollow spaces in the bones of your face. These are called sinuses. They are lined with tissue that makes thin, watery mucus. The sinuses are connected to each other and drain through the nose.

What Causes Sinus Infections?

The most common cause is a virus, such as the common cold. When you catch a cold, your mucus becomes thick and sticky, and doesn't drain well. Bacteria can grow in the mucus trapped in your sinuses. This can lead to a bacterial sinus infection.

Who gets them?

Anyone can get a sinus infection, but people with nasal allergies, hay fever, or asthma have an increased risk. Other risk factors include exposure to cigarette smoke, nasal polyps (POL-ips), and changes in pressure (such as during flying or scuba diving). Sinus infections can also be caused by a deviated septum, which is when the part of your nose that separates the nostrils is out of place.

What are the Symptoms?

• Headache
• Pain or pressure in forehead, cheeks, or between the eyes
• Fever
• Nasal congestion and runny nose
• Cough that may get worse at night
• Sore throat
• Decreases sense of smell and taste
• Tiredness
• Bad breath

How are they Treated?

At Island Urgent Care we can see you right away to determine is the best treatment to get you feeling better fast. Although, only a small percentage of people with cold symptoms will get a bacterial sinus infection, getting evaluated today may help you feel better sooner. Antibiotics can treat bacterial infections, but not viral infections. Most people do not need antibiotics. Having a green or yellow nasal discharge does not necessarily mean that you need antibiotics.

For more information on Sinusitis call Island Urgent Care today or stop in at any of our four locations. No appointment is ever necessary. 

Phone: (808) 735-0007 OR IslandUrgentCare.Com 

Sincerely, 

Docs at IUC

Fall Inspired Healthy Treats

Three Simple and Healthy Treats for FALL!

Fall time in Hawaii is very different than many parts of the mainland. But, just because the trees remain the same doesn't mean we don't enjoy indulging in apple spiced candles, Halloween costumes, and everything pumpkin. 

Fall time is surrounded with sweet treats and warm sugary beverages, but check out some of Island Urgent Care's healthy treats for fall. 

Treat #1: Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding

Chia seed pudding is one of the easiest meals to make for a quick breakfast on the go or a sweet treat at the end of the night. Besides being delicious and completely customize-able chia seeds pack some powerful health benefits as well. In this healthy recipe we will be adding pumpkin to create a fall time treat for you and your family.

Chia Seeds may be tiny but they pack some serious health benefits. They contain fiber, protein, Omega-3 Fatty acids and various micronutrients. Chia seeds are also high in antioxidants that help fight the production of free radicals which can damage molecules and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer.  

Check out how to make this simple and delicious treat!

Ingredients: At least 4 servings

• 1 cup dairy free milk
• 1 cup canned pumpkin 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 1 1/4 pumpkin pie spice
• 3 T agave or maple syrup
• 1/8 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Place all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
2. Place in serving containers (glass is always best like a mason jar or a plastic container with no BPA).
3. Place in refrigerator over night or at least a few hours allowing chia seeds to become gelatinous. 
4. When ready to eat: top with desired toppings (nuts, granola, coconut shavings, cinnamon, diced apples, caramel sauce, nut butters). 
5. Keep leftovers refrigerated.

Treat #2: Apple Chips

This treat is extremely easy! Its a perfect snack for the kids after school or to have at a Halloween party or gathering. I promise these will be gone before you know it!

Ingredients: Serving size 2

• 2 apples thinly sliced
• 1/2 tbs cinnamon
• 2 tbs pumpkin pie spice (not a pumpkin fan? You can sub sugar instead).

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 225* F. 
2. Place apple slices in a bowl and sprinkle cinnamon and pumpkin spice. Toss to combine. 
3. Place a cooling rack onto the baking sheet. Lay apple slices onto the baking sheet so that no apples overlap. 
4. Bake for 2 hours flipping halfway. Bake until dried out but still pliable. 
5. Enjoy! 

BONUS: Your house will smell amazing while these cook! 

Treat #3: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Energy Balls

These pumpkin energy balls will replace that afternoon cup of coffee in the best way possible! This recipe also requires no baking so it's a perfect time to get the kiddos involved. 

Flax Seeds contain a ton of really great health benefits. They contain fiber, Omega-3, 6g of protein per serving, vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, iron, potassium and much more! They are high in fiber but low in carbs, help with healthy skin and nails, contribute to lower cholesterol, high in antioxidants, good for digestive health, and are gluten-free!

Ingredients: Serving 24-32 energy balls

• 3 cups uncooked oatmeal
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 cup nut butter (almond or peanut butter)
• 2/3 cup raw honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 4-6 Tbsp ground flax seeds
• 1 cup chopped walnuts, chopped almonds, chopped peanuts, pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes, or any combination to equal one cup total. 
• 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips or cacao pieces. 

Instructions: 

1. Combine all ingredients together in a medium bowl until very thoroughly mixed. 
2. Roll into about 1'' balls (if mixture sticks to hands spray some coconut cooking spray in palms of hands). 
3. Cover cookie sheet with parchment paper
4. Place balls evenly on the parchment paper
5. Refrigerate 1 hour. 
6. Store in airtight container in the fridge. 

At Island Urgent Care we want to keep all aspects of your body happy and healthy. Try these snacks out the next time you crack open a can of pumpkin or get some juicy apples at the store. 

Everything to Know about Mumps and MMR!

Mumps and MMR Vaccine - What you need to know!

With over 500 verified cases of mumps in Hawaii it has been brought to the attention of the Department of Health and local media. Here is what you need to know about mumps and the MMR vaccine used to prevent it. 

If you are having symptoms of mumps please come into Island Urgent Care and see one of our Physicians right away. 

The Department of Health recommends people working or living in crowded or busy conditions to get vaccinated with the MMR vaccine if they haven't received one in the last 10 years. 

CLICK HERE for Department of Health website 

If you are not sure if you have been vaccinated please come to Island Urgent Care and talk to one of our Physicians today! The MMR vaccine is covered my most insurances, however as always you do not need insurance to get an MMR shot at Island Urgent Care it will be provided at a flat rate. 

Come and get vaccinated today and let's stop the spread of mumps! 

Sincerely, 

Docs at IUC 

Wellness Wednesday: Everything to Know About Lacerations

Lacerations- What to Know!

We have all had that questionable cut or laceration that we look and and wonder..."Do I need stitches?" "Can I use glue?" "Should I just try a band-aid?""How often do I need tetanus?" "Would it be bad if I went surfing with this?" 

One of the most common things my friends and family ask me about are lacerations (cuts) so here are some tips about lacerations!

1.  Does it need stitches?
   

While it is always easier to tell by seeing it in person a general rule of thumb is that if it is over two centimeters in length and especially if it is over a joint (e.g. a knuckle) most lacerations (cuts) will benefit from some form of closure such as stitches, steristrips/butterfly, surgical glue and even staples.   Wound closure generally decreases the chance of infection, results in faster healing, less bleeding and less scarring. We have experienced medical providers at Island Urgent Care who are experts in wound closure and we have all the options available at each clinic.

2. Can it be glued? 

There are several factors that determine whether it is appropriate to use tissue glue.  Factor #1: Is it bleeding?  Glue does not work on wounds that are still bleeding.  Sometimes there are things we can do in the clinic to stop the bleeding and glue can be used - otherwise if is still bleeding, stitches would be better.  Factor #2: Is there tension over the wound?  This means it is located on a part of the body where the skin is stretched which pulls the wound open.  A common place where this occurs is over joints (a knuckle, for example).  The glue is not strong enough to hold when the finger bends and straightens repeatedly and will break down too fast.

3. What is the best thing to clean a wound with?

This answer may be a bit surprising,... tap water.  Yes, turning on the faucet and letting water flow over the wound for 5 minutes cleans it better than betadine, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide.  The movement of water over the wound removes dirt and bacteria. Those other substances, while effective in killing bacteria, do not do as good a job at cleaning the wound and they also they can be harsh and actually a bit harmful to your own tissue.  You may also use a gentle soap and a bit of scrubbing to loosen dirt and bacteria.

4.  How soon do I need to get stitches? (e.g. Can it wait till morning/after work/clinic is open?)

The sooner the better.  Ideally the wound would be closed within the first 6 hours, but we can often can still close up to 7- 12 hours from the time of injury.  Beyond this the risk of infection increases.  One exception is cuts on the face and scalp which have a lower risk of infection.  These you can often close up to 24 hours from time of injury without increased risk of infection.

5. What is a skin tear and what do we do for them? 

A skin tear is a condition we commonly see in our older patients whose skin has gotten fragile and the top layer is pulled off as a result of a fall or other injury.  These lacerations though not deep, often cover a large area of someone’s arm or leg and benefit from wound cleaning and closure with glue or steri strips to speed healing and decrease risk of infection. 

6. Do I need a tetanus shot update?
   

Tetanus vaccinations are generally effective for 10 years.  While most wounds are relatively low risk for tetanus it is always good to have your tetanus vaccination current.  If it is a higher risk wound (e.g. larger, contaminated wound) we may recommend vaccination if has been longer than 5 years since your last tetanus immunization.

7.  Do I need antibiotics?

Most wounds do not need oral antibiotics to prevent infection.  Cleansing and closing the wound is usually all you need.  Topical antibiotic ointment can be use after wounds repaired with stitches as further protection.  One exception to this rule though is animal bites, including human bites.  These have a much higher risk of infection, particularly puncture wound from cats and oral antibiotics are recommended for these wounds.

If you have any questions about your cuts or laceration come see us at Island Urgent Care today. 

                

Am I Getting a Migraine?: 4 Signs You Should Look out For

Migraines can be extremely tedious and painful. They can come out of nowhere and literally debilitate a person. The dreaded headache not only brings on acute pain in the head, but also can make a person feel as if they're going to throw up. Sometimes, the only way to get rid of a migraine is to lay down in a completely dark room with no noise or light to irritate the headache. Even though they do hit people out of the blue, there are some common signs that prove one may be getting a migraine. 

Some signs of an impending migraine might be more noticeable than others, which is why it's important to mindfully listen to your body. Here's how you can you can easily figure out if a migraine is in your near future. 

1. You May Be Sensitive to Smell When you're about to be hit with a migraine, you might notice that your sensitivity to smell becomes worse than ever. Things that don't normally seem to smell terrible suddenly feel extremely pungent. This sensitivity can also make you feel nauseous.


2. Spots of Light May Appear If you see splotches and flashes of light, there's a chance you're about to get a migraine. This is caused by the over activity of your brain's visual cortex. Many people say that they only see the light in one eye, so if that's something you notice, don't worry -- it's pretty common.


3. You May Find Yourself Confused When you have a migraine, your normal brain function becomes disrupted, causing you to become dizzy. These brain disruptions may also cause you to be confused. If you find yourself suddenly unsure of what's going on or where you are, you may be suffering from an acute confusional migraine. If you're experiencing this issue, ask someone to take you to an urgent care clinic or another health clinic. The urgent care clinic will hopefully be able to help you make sense of what is going on. However, the clinic's providers may also tell you to visit your primary doctor that handles your migraine issues for further treatment.


4. Your Limbs and Body May Tingle If you're feeling tingling sensations in your arms and legs, like little pinpricks, you may be experiencing the beginning of a migraine. This is often associated with "aura disturbances," which are a perceptual disturbance that precedes the onset of some migraines. However, it may be a good idea to check with your doctor to make sure it's nothing more serious. If your doctor isn't open at the time of your migraine, check with an urgent care clinic since 85% of them are open all week long.

Migraines can be hard to control once you have one that has fully onset. However, if you notice some of the pre-symptoms that have been listed above, there's a chance you may be able to prevent a migraine from getting even worse with the use of medicine and other remedies. 

Medical Monday: Swimmers Ear- How to Treat

Swimmers Ear 

Living in Hawaii, most of us find the ocean to be some sort of therapy or exercise. Some of us spear fish for tonight's dinner, others do a couple laps at Kaimana beach, some like to explore by boat, some of us are thrill seekers and go open water shark diving, and others just like to causally float in the blue water on a warm beach day. Whatever your preference here are some things to know to protect your ears from the dreaded Swimmers Ear.

• What is Swimmer’s Ear?

Swimmer’s ear, or Otitis Externa, is an inflammation of the skin of the ear canal. This is usually due to infection.  Most commonly the infection is due to bacterial organisms, but occasionally may be due to a fungus (yeast) infection.

• Who gets Swimmer’s Ear?

Swimmer’s ear occurs more often in swimmers  due to water frequently getting into the ear canal from swimming. This leads to a moist environment  that can help germs grow.  It is also more common in warm humid environments due to increased moisture so anyone can end up with a swimmer’s ear. In addition, anything that irritates the ear (Q-tips) may expose the raw skin and start an infection.

• What are the symptoms of Swimmer’s Ear?

Symptoms of swimmer’s ear include a blocked or plugged sensation to the ear, itching, discharge, decreased hearing, and ear pain. It may be painful to touch the ear itself especially near the ear canal opening  or  there may be ear pain with jaw movement (ie chewing).

• What is diagnosis and treatment?
  

Diagnosis is usually made by a medical provider looking into the ear and visualizing a red and swollen ear canal. Sometimes discharge is present.  Treatment begins with ear drops which can be prescribed at Island Urgent Care. Occasionally oral antibiotics may also be indicated. You may use tylenol or ibuprofen for pain, and a warm compress held to the ear may provide relief for the discomfort.

• How do I use the ear drops?

Lie with the affected ear upwards and instill drops into affected ear canal. Stay in this position for 5-10 mins to help the ear drops settle into the canal. You should also avoid getting any water into the ear canal (avoid swimming/water related activities & wear shower cap with bathing ) as the water will wash away the drops and may prolong recovery. Once your symptoms are resolved and course of medications are completed then you may return to usual activities.

Sincerely,

IUC Docs

CLICK HERE to find an Island Urgent Care near you!

Call: (808) 735-0007 for more information 

Wellness Wednesday: "Doctor, I had too much fun at the beach!" SUNBURN

SUNBURN

Let's face it we've all been there. Living in Hawaii we have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and sometimes we spend a little too much time in the sun. Resulting in a hot, painful sunburn. Which makes getting out of the car (with leather seats) or the touch of a hand a painful encounter. Here's some tips for the next time you forget to reapply the SPF. 

What is and causes a sunburn?
Sunburn is reddening of the skin when exposed to the sun or other ultraviolet light.  Risk factors for sunburn:

·         Being outdoors when sun rays are strongest during midday (10a-2p)

·         Infants/children and individuals with fair skin are more sensitive and at higher risk

·         Antibiotic use (ex. Doxycycline) can increase skin sensitivity

What are the symptoms of sunburn?
The first signs of sunburn can take a few hours to appear, sometimes not until 24 hours later.  Symptoms are usually temporary, but the skin damage is often permanent.  Symptoms include:

·         Red, painful skin (Pain usually worst 6-24 hrs after exposure)

·         Blisters (A sign of a more severe sunburn)

·         Peeling skin

·         Other more serious reactions such as fever, chills, nausea, and rash.  Symptoms of sunburn are usually temporary, but skin damage is often permanent.

How are sunburns treated?
Mild cases of sunburn:

·         Keep cool! (Cool compresses, bath or shower)

·         Avoid using products that contain benzocaine, lidocaine, or petroleum (eg, Vaseline). 

How to treat blisters:

·         Dry bandages to prevent infection

·         Moisturizing cream or aloe to relieve pain from blisters

·         Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (ex. Ibuprofen) can relieve pain from sunburns

·         Cortisone cream can reduce inflammation

·         Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration. 

What are bad signs to look out for, for which I should contact a healthcare provider at Island Urgent Care immediately?

·         Fever

·         Dizziness, fast pulse, fast breathing

·         Severe thirst

·         Sunken eyes

·         Not urinating

·         Nausea and/or vomiting

·         Severe or diffuse painful blisters

·         Sign of infection (increased redness, pain, swelling, discharge)

How is sunburn prevented?

·         Wear your sunscreen (for children over 6 months of age)

·         Use protective clothing (sunglasses, hat, long sleeves)

·         Avoid the midday rays!

Sincerely, 

Docs at IUC

Medical Monday: Flu Season is Around the Corner!

This time of year is particularly exciting. The weather is slightly changing here in Hawaii and the holidays are only a few months away. The beginning of October also means flu season is right around the corner. At Island Urgent Care we have the flu vaccine at all four locations. With no appointment necessary you can be in and out in 15 minutes knowing that you are protected from the flu virus. 

It is also recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to get the flu vaccine in October. 

What is Influenza? 

Influenza is a serious disease that can lead to complications including hospitalizations and death. Millions of people get the flu every year, and getting the flu vaccine helps reduce your risk of getting influenza and spreading it to the community.

How does the flu shot work? Influenza vaccines stimulate your body to produce antibodies that help fight against the flu. It usually takes about 2 weeks after vaccination to produce these antibodies. Each year the influenza vaccine targets the viruses that research suggests will be prevalent in the community that season.

Influenza vaccination is recommended for all persons aged 6 months and older. Annual vaccination is recommended as vaccines are updated to keep up with changing viruses. Last year’s vaccination may not protect you from this season’s viruses. In children who have not been vaccinated previously, 2 doses given at least 4 weeks apart are recommended. 

Who should prioritize getting the flu shot? 
These groups are at higher risk for complications including hospitalization and death and should get the influenza vaccine:

• Keiki aged 6 months to under 5 years, (especially under 2 years old)
• People 65 years or older
• People with underlying medical disorders including lung conditions (such as asthma, COPD), heart conditions, liver or kidney disease, neurological conditions (such as seizures, cerebral palsy), blood disorders (such as sickle cell anemia), and other underlying medical conditions (ie diabetes)
• People with a compromised immune systems (HIV, cancer, or long term steroid use)
• Pregnant women and up to 2 weeks after delivery (flu shot is recommended during pregnancy and this also helps protect your baby)
• Residents of long term facilities/care homes
  
• Health care workers
• People younger than 19 years old on long term aspirin
• Caretakers of keiki (especially of infants younger than 6 months old), elderly, or persons with underlying chronic conditions
• American Indians and Alaskan Natives
• Extremely overweight individuals 

Who should NOT get the influenza vaccine?

• Children younger than 6 months are too young to receive the vaccine
• Individuals with severe life threatening allergies to influenza vaccine or its ingredients

Can I still get the Flu if I get the shot?

Yes. The ability of the vaccine to protect the individual depends on the individual’s response to the vaccine as well as how closely the vaccine matches the actual influenza viruses circulating that season. However even if not an exact match it may still be helpful due to cross protection as the antibodies may still provide some protection against the illness and may prevent complications. In that case the illness is usually milder than if you did not get the vaccine. 

We have the vaccine available at all four Island Urgent Care Clinics! Come in and get your annual flu shot today. 

CLICK HERE to see where you can get your flu shot today! 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Gomez MD

Foodie Friday's: Classic Kale Salad!

Simple & Easy Kale Salad 

With this simple of a salad there is no excuse not to get your daily amount of greens. 

This salad has a ton of benefits not only for your waistline but for your insides. 

Kale is a super food and packed with nutrition that puts Kale on the list of the world's healthiest food. Fiber, potassium, vitamin C and B6 found in kale supports heart health. kale also has a high amount of Vitamin K, eating a diet high in Vitamin K can protect against certain kinds of cancers. The list for Kale goes on and on, but besides being great for your body it creates a unique taste in salad. 

Ingredients: 

1 bunch of kale (any variety)

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (preferably unfiltered)

1-2 tablespoons of honey (to taste)

pinch of salt (optional)

choice of toppings such as dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, sprouts, olives, etc

Instructions: 

1. Make sure to wash kale well under running water, then chop

2. Mix dressing ingredients (olive oil, vinegar, honey, & salt) together in a bowl

3. Pour over chopped kale and use your hands to massage dressing into kale. You want the dressing to cover the kale as this helps soften the kale.

4. Marinate over a few hours (do not eat right away)

5. Add toppings to taste. I like cranberries with sunflower seeds, or olives and feta... anything goes

What I really like about this salad is that it holds up well when packing it for lunch or a picnic. You can make it in the morning for lunch and there is no wilted lettuce, the dressing is already in place, and all you need to do is add the toppings. Some toppings even hold up well and can be added when you make the salad too.

 Enjoy!

Sincerely,

Docs at Island Urgent Care

We're Now Open in KAKAAKO!

Check out what we have been up to in Kakaako! 

On Monday, October 2nd Island Urgent Care opened our fourth clinic in Kakaako. 

Our opening day team! 

We wanted to create a warm and inviting atmosphere when visiting our clinic

We have a lot of seating in our waiting room. Love the door details. 

Want come coffee? We have a coffee station in our waiting room. Catch up on HGTV with a cup of Joe!

Channelle, Dr. Perez, Lisa

Cindy and Lisa working hard in the Lab! 

Our VP and President enjoying the views of the new clinic. 

Lovely flowers from out amazing patients and new neighbors! We are so excited to be apart of the Kakaako neighborhood.