How to tell a cold from the flu

The common cold and flu are caused by different viruses but can have some similar symptoms, making them tough to tell apart. In general, the flu is worse and symptoms are more intense.

CDC says US flu season starts early, could be bad

Health officials on Monday said suspected flu cases have jumped in five Southern states, and the primary strain circulating tends to make people sicker than other types.

Illinois sparking a refugee health care revolution

A movement spreading across Illinois is creating a health care revolution for refugees from countries including Burma, Bhutan and Iraq.

What travelers need to know about the flu season this year

As flu season approaches, germs are spreading faster than holiday cheer. Traveling through a highly populated place, such as an airport, raises the risk of contracting the seasonal flu.

EDITORIAL: A shot in the arm for public health

The immunization rates are higher for Indiana teens because of school public health requirements, which is good news. Public health will be improved as a result.

Free flu shot vouchers offered by state health department

NORTHWEST INDIANA | Northwest Indiana Community Action Corp., 5240 Fountain Drive, is distributing free flu shot vouchers in partnership with the American Lung Association and the Indiana State Department of Health.

Many Chicago students still not vaccinated, documents show

CHICAGO | Nearly one out of six students in Chicago Public Schools did not meet vaccine or physical examination requirements as of Oct. 14, according to documents obtained by Medill News Service.

State sees rise in whooping cough cases

Lake and Porter counties have seen double-digit numbers of cases of pertussis in a year that's seen the state's largest outbreak of the illness since the 1950s.

EDITORIAL: A shot in the arm for health

In complaining about the state's immunization database, a parent in St. John Township inadvertently showed precisely why such a registry should exist.

GUEST COMMENTARY: Vaccinate everyone to keep Hoosier kids safe

What if your healthy, playful child, grandchild, niece or nephew suddenly died of a serious disease like pertussis (or whooping cough)? What if the death could have been prevented if those around him or her had been vaccinated? What would you do and how would you feel?