You've heard a lot about how the symptoms of the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, are similar to the flu or influenza. The main symptoms of the novel coronavirus are fever plus cough and shortness of breath, which can also appear when someone has a flu or even a common cold.
Anyone who has symptoms of the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, or believes they may have been exposed to COVID-19 is encouraged to contact their health care provider, who can determine if you need to be tested for the COVID-19 virus. Those symptoms include a cough with a fever and shortness of breath. If it is determined that you need to get tested, your provider will write an order…
This is our second of two blogs comparing the 1918 pandemic flu to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). In this blog, we focus on a second wave of cases which led to a record-setting new spike in deaths, claiming more lives in Denver than all Coloradans killed in World War I. It is an important lesson to keep in mind as we as a society consider how and when to go "back to normal" after the threat of…
It's been more than 100 years since the world has seen a pandemic on the scale of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). 102 years ago, the world was stricken by the influenza pandemic which commonly became known as 'Spanish Influenza' or 'Spanish Flu' and Denver, just like many other cities around the world, took drastic measures very similar to what we are doing through today to fight COVID-19.
For 160 years, Denver Health has been providing care in the heart of Denver. In all that time, we've stayed true to our mission to care for all and put our heart into that mission every day. The heart of our mission has never been as important as it is now, during the COVID-19 pandemic. That's why we've chosen to showcase a lot of hearts in this week's edition of our "heroes" behind the scenes…
The Heroes of Denver Health during the COVID-19 epidemic include our doctors, nurses and providers, but also some of the other behind-the-scenes unsung heroes of the hospital, including our food service workers, volunteers, medical students and human resource professionals. All of these tireless workers and others continue to come in every day, taking the proper precautions to prevent further…
Phone and Video Doctor's Appointments During COVID-19 and Beyond
A lot of things have changed during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but one thing that remains the same is your ability to get the quality health care you need from Denver Health.
Update April 6, 2020: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends everyone wear a homemade, non-medical grade face mask or cloth face covering to stop the spread of COVID-19.
Original article: As part of Denver Health's commitment to keeping you informed and safe in the face of the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, we wanted to share a list of tips to help prevent the…
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to give you a behind-the-scenes look at what's going on throughout Denver Health, on what has become known as the COVID-19 unit, inside Pavilion A. These are just a few of the photos captured during one week's time. We will continue to post blog updates weekly or as we get them – follow along right here.
When we talk about front line workers in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, at the top of that list are the heroes who, in many cases, come in contact with infected patients before anyone else does – our paramedics.
Struggling Through The Stigma of Getting the Novel Coronavirus and Recovering
We are now several weeks into the reality of COVID-19 being here in Colorado. I knew that working in a hospital setting would increase my chances of getting the virus, so my mind and body had already braced for the likelihood of me possibly getting the virus. But when I actually got COVID-19, to be honest I didn’t…
Denver Health is proud to provide care for all in our community, especially at this time when we are experiencing the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
For several weeks now, we've been hearing the advice to practice social distancing to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Denver Health has been at the forefront of getting that message out to the community because there is currently no vaccine for COVID-19 and our health experts know that the only way to slow its spread is to avoid being exposed. Social distancing is the best…
Our health care heroes are working all over Denver Health during the COVID-19 pandemic -– some of them are seen by our patients while others are working hard behind the scenes or working from home if they do not directly care for patients. No matter what physical location they work in, a lot of things have changed across Denver Health to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus and keep all of our…
Update October 16, 2020: Face coverings are now required for everyone both inside Denver Health facilities as well as outdoors, including on all Denver Health campuses/locations per Public Health order.
How to Best Manage Your Stress During COVID-19 & Beyond
May is Mental Health Month and many of us are experiencing heightened stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. With social distancing and working from home now being a reality for the immediate future, it is important to recognize the importance of maintaining your mental health by taking care of yourself.
One letter begins, "Dear doctors, nurses and other staff: thank you for taking care of the people that are sick during this "ruff" time." That is just one of the dozens of letters of appreciation that now line the hallway in Denver Health's Emergency Department.
The Story of the Health Warriors Who Made Denver Health What It Is Today
This is the latest in a series of articles reflecting on and celebrating the rich history of 160 years of Denver Health.
We know that celebrating the Fourth of July during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is going to look a lot different than it normally does.
Denver Health's infectious disease and public health experts say it is possible to still have a good time, but now is not the time to get too comfortable and forget about the responsible things we have all been doing to help slow the spread of the…
This has been a hot summer so far in Denver, and in addition to taking precautions for heat when we work or play outside this year, we are all encouraged to monitor for symptoms of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
This is normally the time of year when Denver Health doctors, nurses and other providers remind parents to get their children up to date on their vaccinations before heading back to school. Just because we are living with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic does not mean we should not stay on top of keeping children vaccinated. In fact, it is more important than ever this year.
Why Arming Yourself With NARCAN is More Important Than Ever During a Pandemic
Opioid drug overdose deaths in Colorado are on a steep rise since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Whether you're a new parent or expecting a baby in the near future – congratulations! Welcoming a new baby is one of the most exciting, challenging and rewarding times of your life. We know you have a lot on your mind, including how to prepare for and protect your new little one. It can be overwhelming, so helping you break down one of the best ways you can keep your child safe – properly…
September 15-October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month and Denver Health is committed to helping all of our patients be a part of the most healthy community possible.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Denver Health wants to make sure you know your risk and take the proper steps to keep yourself healthy and safe from this deadly, but survivable disease. We are urging all of our patients to make sure that they continued to get screened for breast cancer, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the number of COVID-19 cases on the rise in Denver for three consecutive weeks and new orders now in place to wear masks outside and limit gatherings to five people or less to help stop the spread of the virus, Denver Health is renewing its calls for everyone over the age of six months to get a flu shot.
Is There Trick-or-Treating in 2020? Or Has COVID Canceled It?
Halloween is coming up on Saturday and as with most anything else this year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional Halloween activities are going to look a lot different than they have in years past. So far, COVID has not canceled trick-or-treating activities in Colorado, and according to our medical experts, it still can be…
Denver Health Orthopedics Cutting-Edge Surgery Salvaging Severely Injured Hands
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having a severe injury to an arm, hand or finger, such as through a car wreck, bad encounter with heavy machinery or a slip up with a kitchen knife, Denver Health is here for you and this is where you want to be for your treatment.
Every year Denver Health recommends that our patients get a vaccine to protect against the flu (influenza) during the fall and winter seasons. But this year, it is especially important because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Update: Based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration, Denver Health will resume administration of the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 Vaccine. Learn more here.
Update 11/20/2020: Due to a spike in COVID-19 cases in Colorado and nationwide, Denver Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending that everyone avoid travel and Thanksgiving gatherings outside of your own home this year. The safest way to celebrate is at home with the people you live with.
Updated 11/19/2020: As of Friday, November 20, 2020, 15 Colorado counties, including Denver, will move to tougher public health restrictions to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Why These Heroes Still Love Their Jobs Through the COVID-19 Pandemic
Ask any of our amazing frontline workers at Denver Health – from the housekeepers and food service workers, to the doctors, nurses, techs and more – and they will tell you they know the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over.
How Getting Your Prescriptions Through the Mail Might Make You Healthier
When Denver Health expanded Pharmacy by Mail earlier this year in response to increased demand from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we found that the benefits for our patients went far beyond the ease, convenience and safety of this important service.
COVID -19 has changed much of what the care team and families do in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) on a day-to-day basis. We strive to provide the best medical care for our tiny, fragile patients while acknowledging the importance of parental and family involvement.
(Updated) Vaccinations are available to everyone age 5 and over.
When it comes to getting care when you suddenly get sick or injured, it's important to know the difference between urgent vs. emergency care and what type of care you should seek out.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, Denver Health Director of Integrated Behavioral Health Jennifer Grote, PhD, explains how the expansion of telepsychiatry services changed the hospital’s approach to mental health treatment for the better.
Denver Health Kangaroo-a-Thon Still Going StrongFor the second straight year during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Denver Health's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is proud to continue taking part in the annual Kangaroo-a-Thon, to encourage skin to skin care between parents and their newborn babies.
With the 2021 opening of the Outpatient Medical Center Pharmacy at Denver Health, patients who fill their prescriptions at the new state-of-the-art facility will have a smooth and effortless experience, thanks to the latest technology and improved customer service.
For weeks now, a big topic of conversation surrounding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been the variants of the original virus that causes COVID-19 – specifically:
What are variants?
What do variants mean if we've been fully vaccinated?
What do variants mean for wearing masks?
Here is everything that is important to know right now about variants.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month and a good time to talk about vaccines and why they are so important not just now but throughout history. Vaccines are something most of us don't think about regularly and often take for granted. Since Edward Jenner created the first vaccine in 1796 they have become of vital importance to our health care system.
The past year was a year of profound loss. Taken from so many of us were lives and livelihoods, loves and loved ones. Even facts and universal truths seemed stripped away by a roller coaster pandemic and repeated cycles of social action and reaction.
August 8-14 is National Health Center Week 2021, an annual celebration to raise awareness about the mission of Community Health Centers across America.
Antibiotic Safety Through Education and Awareness
Denver Health is joining with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to advise patients and their families to use antibiotics only when necessary to further reduce antibiotic resistance, the spread of superbugs and protect from side effects from antibiotics. During U.S.
With the number of COVID-19 cases on the rise once again this year, the emergence of several variants, holiday season gatherings and the reinstatement of mask mandates– it’s more important than ever to get vaccinated against both COVID-19 and influenza (the flu).
January of 2022 marks the 100th anniversary of Leonard Thompson, a 14-year-old, seriously ill patient with diabetes, receiving the first successful insulin injection. Prior to 1922, diabetes treatment was often limited to following very restrictive or near-starvation diets. The miraculous discovery of insulin by Dr. Frederick Banting and Charles Best forever changed the course of diabetes…
Omicron, Delta, COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 are household names. As frequent as they appear in conversation, there is widely distributed misinformation regarding COVID-19 variants. Denver Health is committed to providing our community with accurate and timely information regarding COVID-19, its variants, how they compare and how you can protect yourself and those you love.
February is American Heart Month, a time when Denver Health joins with health professionals around the country to encourage everyone to take time to focus on their cardiovascular health.
Colon and Rectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer (which can also be known as colon cancer or rectal cancer) is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States, striking one in every 20 Americans, and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. among men and women combined.
Celebrity Deaths of Bob Saget and Natasha Richardson Highlight Need for Awareness
News about the celebrity deaths of comedian/actor Bob Saget recently and before that, actress Natasha Richardson are both sobering reminders that a head injury is not to be ignored and should never be taken lightly.
If you are reading this, you have most likely experienced burnout at some stage or another. Maybe you are currently feeling burnt out or experience it frequently. You might be unsure. Wherever you are, learning what burnout is and reflecting over your personal red flags to prepare for the potential experience of it, is critical for your overall wellness and workplace health.
Excessive Marijuana Use and When to Seek Care
Colorado legalized marijuana for medical use and recreational use in the early 2000’s. Since the legalization of marijuana, Colorado’s cannabis sales have been strong, with the Colorado Division of Criminal Justice reporting $387 million total revenue from taxes, licenses and fees related to 2,700 licensed marijuana business in 2020.
May is National Water Safety Month and the Denver Health Trauma and Injury Prevention Program would like to promote fun and safety in, on, and around the water for all ages and abilities!
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and is the number five cause of death in the United States. It is dangerous and deadly; however, you can control and treat many of the risk factors. If you, or a loved one, is having a stroke, time is critical! Immediate medical attention and treatment may decrease the long-term effects of a stroke and may prevent death.
May is National Adolescent Health Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health is a large part of adolescent health, so let's talk about it.
Cycling is one of Colorado’s most popular pastimes and a popular form of transportation, especially in the Denver metro area.
National Home Safety Awareness Month, part of National Safety Month, is celebrated in June when people focus on how they can keep their homes safe and free from danger and keep their families injury-free.
According to NoHeatStroke.org, 913 children have died due to vehicular heatstroke since 1998. Yet, all these deaths could have been prevented. The number of child hot car deaths for 2021 was 23. So far in 2022, six deaths have been reported. On average, 38 children under the age of 15 die each year from heatstroke after being left in a vehicle.
The human papillomavirus (commonly known as HPV) is one of the most common viruses circulating right now, because it is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Four out of five people are expected to get the virus during their lifetimes. HPV can cause several cancers, which is why getting the vaccine is good cancer prevention. The two-dose HPV vaccine can prevent 90 percent of these cancers,…
If you live in Denver, you’re likely familiar with the term “altitude sickness.” Both residents and visitors to alpine environments can experience altitude sickness, but it’s most common in individuals who are not acclimated to traveling above sea level. It can cause immediate symptoms including headache, nausea, vomiting, malaise and fatigue.
Monkeypox cases are exponentially increasing nationwide. So much so that the disease’s rapid spread was recently declared by the Biden administration and World Health Organization a Public Health Emergency. Dr. Sarah Rowan, an infectious disease expert at Denver Health, noted that while this designation brings more attention and funding to monkeypox treatment and research, more needs to be done…
In June of 2022, thanks to $4000 raised by Denver Health’s Anesthesia Department, two Denver Health nurse anesthetists and doctoral students, Adal Wolde (pictured in green) and Yannick Macaulay (pictured in light blue), were able to participate in a life-changing medical mission in Nigeria.
Jason felt like his life was over before it had begun. Twenty-two years old, unable to keep a job, and spending his time and money maintaining a heroin habit, Jason wanted more but didn’t know how to stop using.
Jason felt like his life was over before it had begun. Twenty-two years old, unable to keep a job, and spending his time and money maintaining a heroin habit, Jason wanted more but didn’t know how to stop using.
While older adults and young children are at the highest risk for being injured from falls, everyone is at risk, according to the Brain Injury Association of America. The good news is that many falls can be prevented. Parents and caregivers play a key role in protecting children, while adults can take proactive measures to reduce their risks.
Antibiotic Awareness Week (AAW) is an annual event to raise awareness about the importance of appropriate antibiotic use. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that a key message for patients and providers during AAW is to avoid antibiotics for viral infections. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment for viral infections, and antibiotics should only be prescribed when bacterial infections…
Denver Health showcased its three Mobile Health Centers last week at an open house attended by staff, board members and dozens of community partners.
March 19-25 is National Poison Prevention Week, and the director of the Rocky Mountain Poison Center has provided answers to some common questions about poisons and how to respond in case of exposure.
Take a moment to consider your surroundings. Do you feel safe? Do you have access to health care and grocery stores? Do you have support at home, both physically and mentally?
This Mental Health Month, Denver Health asks its employees and the community to consider how different factors can affect mental health.
Safety tips for Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month of May
May is National Water Safety Month and the Denver Health Trauma and Injury Prevention Program is promoting fun and safety in, on, and around the water for all ages and abilities this summer.
Preventing loss of life is something we talk a lot about within the trauma community, and water safety is no different. Every year in the U.S., more than 900 children drown, and drowning remains a leading…
Stop the Bleed campaign highlights importance of early intervention
Unintentional injury remains the leading cause of death for children and adults up to age 45.
Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition for many families, but it’s important to remember that fireworks are not legal in the City of Denver (leave it to the professionals) and that any improperly handled fireworks can lead to serious trouble.
At the Denver Health Bariatric Surgery Center, we offer two options for bariatric surgery, the sleeve gastrectomy and the
According to NoHeatStroke.org, 949 children have died due to vehicular heatstroke since 1998. Yet, all these deaths could have been prevented. The number of child hot car deaths for 2021 was 23. In 2022, 33 deaths were reported, and so far in 2023, nine deaths have been reported.
In a heartwarming celebration filled with laughter and cupcakes adorned with trucks and basketballs Will Ewing marked a significant milestone this past July: his second birthday. However, this birthday was not just a celebration; it was a joyous testament to the resiliency of a young child and the dedication of an exceptional medical team.
At 11 months old, Will suffered a traumatic brain injury…
Lisa had spent more of the last six months in hospital beds for her chronic heart disease than she had on the streets she returned to after discharge. Hustling to keep herself out of withdrawal, find food, and locate a safe place to stay, she had little time to manage her chronic medications, which were often lost or stolen. Lisa enrolled in Denver Health’s opioid treatment program (OTP) in March…
By: Alonso Daboub
We lead busy lives full of important tasks in and out of the workplace, keeping us occupied for what can feel like every second of the day. August is National Wellness Month, a time for people to reflect on their wellness at individual, professional and community levels. Wellness Month encourages everyone to prioritize their health and well-being — not just for August…
We can all help prevent suicide. September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness month, a time when communities can come together and share their stories and resources to help spread awareness about suicide in the hope of preventing another individual from taking their life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was responsible for 48,183 deaths in 2021,…
Order Your Free COVID-19 Tests
UPDATE: The U.S. Government suspended the free COVID-19 test program on March 8, 2024. Please talk to your health care provider about getting a COVID-19 test.
Trick or treat! It’s that time of the year again, when kids hit the streets in their spookiest costumes in search of sweet goodies and holiday fun. Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for children as they walk around their neighborhood decked out in magical costumes while collecting candy treats.
U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week (USAAW), Nov. 18-24, is held annually to recognize the importance of appropriate antibiotic use.
Familiar names have been showing up at the Correctional Care Medical Facility lately.
Mark Twain, Herman Melville and Richard Dawkins to name a few. Their presence has been a welcome part of the CCMF “ecosystem,” according to Denver Health chaplain Luke Howard.
Luke started a library in the CCMF, in the basement of Pavilion B, over the summer. The library – a few shelves in a storage closet – has…
It’s that time of the year again. The holiday season has arrived! Holiday safety is an issue that burns brightest from late November to mid-January, when families gather, parties are scheduled and travel spikes. Most people look forward to a long holiday weekend as a chance to take off work and enjoy time with friends and family.
Thanksgiving may have already passed, but the holiday season is just getting underway – with Hanukkah this week, and Christmas, Kwanzaa and New Year's right around the corner. Staying healthy, especially with eating and nutrition, can be a concern for some people during this time. Increased holiday dinners and social events can pose opportunities to deviate away from your typical diet, often for…
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Kim-Ngan (Kimmy), a senior from Green Mountain High School and participant in Denver Health's Medical Career Collaborative (MC2) program, recently undertook a remarkable project. For her school's senior capstone, Kimmy decided to blend her love for baking with a heartfelt mission – to support Denver Health's and Children's Hospital Colorado's…
As a bariatric surgeon, I have a unique perspective on weight loss strategies, including the use of weight loss medications in addition to surgery. Obesity is a chronic medical disease and should be treated by combining more than one method. In the case of high blood pressure (hypertension), your doctor will ask you to make lifestyle changes and prescribe you medications. In this example, both…
As a bariatric surgeon, I have a unique perspective on weight loss strategies, including the use of weight loss medications in addition to surgery. Obesity is a chronic medical disease and should be treated by combining more than one method. In the case of high blood pressure (hypertension), your doctor will ask you to make lifestyle changes and prescribe you medications. In this example, both…
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes and deaths in Colorado, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Whether a person is distracted by looking away from the road, taking their hands off the wheel or thinking about something other than driving, engaging in any activity that diverts your full attention away from driving can have dangerous consequences.
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes and deaths in Colorado, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Whether a person is distracted by looking away from the road, taking their hands off the wheel or thinking about something other than driving, engaging in any activity that diverts your full attention away from driving can have dangerous consequences.
National Bicycle Safety Month is celebrated every May and reminds bicyclists and motorists to put safety first when sharing the road. Bicycling is an amazing way to exercise, spend time outside and reduce your carbon footprint. For many Americans, bicycling is a form of transportation to work or school that is cost effective and convenient.
As the weather warms up, we tend to get more active outside. Whether it’s gardening, walking the dogs or going to the pool, summer is a time of increased activity for most people. With that increased activity, it is common to notice new aches and pains. A frequent injury we see year-round but more often in the summer months is injury to the tendons in your shoulder, called the rotator cuff. It is…
In May, we celebrate National Adolescent Health Month.
Adolescent Health is a broad term that includes many parts of health and well-being – from physical health to behavioral health to sexual and reproductive health. Healthy eating, exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are at the heart of all of these things.
On January 21, 2013, fifteen-year-old Hadiya Pendleton performed with her Chicago high school majorette squad at President Obama’s inauguration. One week later, she was shot and killed by a stray bullet at a Chicago playground. Pendleton’s childhood friends later commemorated her life by wearing orange, a color worn in the woods by hunters to protect themselves and others.
The Denver Paramedics are a model of hospital-based Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at Denver Health, an internationally recognized Level I Trauma Center with a reputation for high volumes and medical excellence.
Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition for many families, but it’s important to remember that fireworks are not legal in the City of Denver (leave it to the professionals) and that any improperly handled fireworks can lead to serious trouble.
Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition for many families, but it’s important to remember that fireworks are illegal in the City and County of Denver and that any improperly handled fireworks can lead to serious trouble. So, leave the fireworks to the professionals.
June is Men's Health Month and while we talk a lot about the need for women to get regular screenings for breast cancer, men can be at risk for getting breast cancer, too.
