Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a virus that will infect an estimated 75% to 80% of males and females in their lifetime. For most, HPV clears on its own. But there's no way to predict who will or won't clear the virus. For those who don't clear certain types, HPV could cause cervical cancer in females. Other types could cause genital warts in both males and females. Each day in the United States, 30 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer (about 11,000 women per year), and it is estimated that each minute there is a new case of genital warts in men and women.

Meningococcal Disease (Meningitis)

Meningitis can be caused by either a viral or bacterial infection - and knowing the difference can lead to different treatment approaches. Bacterial meningitis is a very serious infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. Infection can be spread from person to person by close contact. It is characterized by fever, headache, and stiff neck. Complications can lead to a loss of limbs, brain damage, kidney disease, loss of hearing, and even death.

Pertussis

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection spread by coughing and sneezing. Symptoms can include violent coughing, difficulty breathing, and vomiting. In the last 30 years, cases of pertussis have been on the rise in the United States, especially among teens, preteens, and very young childer. Pertussis in preteens or teens can range from mild to severe. About 1 in 10 children with pertussis gets pneumonia. The infection often causes a lengthy illness that can lead to repeated doctor visits and missed school.

Varicella(Chickenpox)

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella zoster virus. It is easily spread from person to person by coughing and sneezing. It usually prduces a fever and an itchy rash, which can turn into blisters. Adolescents and adults are at greater risk for severe disease and serious complications, but there is no way to predict who will have a mild or more serious case. Rarely, complications may occur, including bacterial infection of the skin, swelling of the brain, and pneumonia.

We think this information is important. As usual, feel free to call us with any questions or to make an appointment.

Many of the departments and doctors offices at Medical Associates can now be directly dialed without having to go through the switchboard.

We have provided a convenient listing of these direct dial numbers. This document requires the Acrobat Reader software in order to view it.

Direct Inward Dial Phone Directory, September 2008. PDF Document.

Pneumococcal Diseases

Pneumococcal (noo-moh-kah-kal) diseases are caused by common bacteria that can invade the lungs, brain, and blood. Many adults already carry these bacteria in their nose and throat, and certain health problems can allow these bacteria to multiply and spread. Your age or certain health problems (such as diabetes or COPD) may put you at increased risk.

Herpes Zoster (shingles)

Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once you have had chickenpox, the virus stays in your body and can resurface at any time, without warning , as shingles. Shingles is a painful, blistering rash that can appear anywhere on the body and can create a sharp, stabbing pain. A person's chances of developing shingles increase significantly after age 60.

Influenza (flu)

Influenza is a viral infection of the lungs and airways that is spread from person to person in the droplets of coughs and sneezes. Influenza can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to serious complications. Some people, such as older adults and those with certain health conditions, are at higher risk for serious flu complications.

We think this information can help you understand more about your health. Ask us about your risk for these diseases at your next visit.

As usual, feel free to call us with any questions.

Ali Albaghdadi, MD, Interventional Cardiology

Melanie Giesler, DO, ENT/Allergies, Surgery of the Head, Neck & Sinus

Stephanie Hoff, MD, Family Practice (Hours in Clinton & Fulton)

Jill Johnson, DO, Family Practice (Hours in Clinton & Morrison)

Luke Spellman, DO, Pediatrics/Sports Medicine

Please call their receptionist at the number listed on the advertisement (link) or call Medical Associates at 563-243-2511.

915 13th Ave North, Clinton, Iowa 52732-5031
Phone  (563) 243-2511

Medical Associates is committed to promoting wellness in the communities served by our clinics.  In an effort to detect potential health problems, our clinic is providing a wellness screening at a discounted rate for the following tests: 

• Glucose
• Complete Lipid Panel (includes Total Cholesterol, Triglyceride, HDL, LDL and VLDL calculations)
• Total PSA for males (optional)

The results from this screening will be mailed to you.  If you desire, we can also release these test results to your Medical Associates physician.  It will still be your responsibility to contact your personal physician regarding any abnormal results.