CDC 24-7 Fact of the Week Archives

Fact of the Week - Archives

CDC Fact of the Week

Family health history
Week of December 26, 2016

This holiday season, ask family about their health, share with your doctor and take steps to reduce disease. Act on your family’s health history.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Family around a snowman
Week of December 19, 2016

CDC offers 12 ways for you and your loved ones to stay safe and healthy this holiday season.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Baby chewing on toy
Week of December 12, 2016

CDC reminds you to protect children from potential lead hazards in some holiday toys and toy jewelry. Check out these tips

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CDC Fact of the Week

VERB Logo
Week of December 5, 2016

In 2002, Congress provided resources for CDC to launch a national, multicultural, social marketing campaign to respond to the growing problem of childhood obesity. The campaign, VERB™ It’s what you do, encouraged tweens, ages 9-13, to be more physically active. 

CDC Fact of the Week

Graphic - Zika Action Plan summit
Week of November 28, 2016

In 2016 CDC activated its Emergency Operations Center to respond to the Zika Virus outbreak. CDC hosted the Zika Action Plan Summit to provide state and local senior officials with information and tools needed to improve Zika preparedness and response.

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CDC Fact of the Week

A room full of people sitting behind computers
Week of November 21, 2016

In 2014 CDC activated its Emergency Operations Center to respond to the largest Ebola outbreak in history affecting multiple countries in West Africa. CDC helped coordinate the response at the national level, providing health education and assisting with database management. CDC trained teams of people to do contact tracing, to help find everyone who came in direct contact with a sick Ebola patients.

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CDC Fact of the Week

A Haitian mother and child
Week of November 13, 2016

In 2010, in the aftermath of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti, CDC response effort helps prevent 7,000 deaths from cholera.

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CDC Fact of the Week

a group of 4 people Week of November 7, 2016

In 2009 CDC identifies the novel H1N1 influenza virus. The H1N1 flu pandemic dominates CDC activity for the year, and demonstrates CDC’s unique ability to assess and explain risk.

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CDC Fact of the Week

People wearing PPEs Week of October 31, 2016

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is first discovered in Asia in 2003. CDC responds by providing guidance for surveillance, clinical and laboratory evaluation, and reporting. 

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CDC Fact of the Week

X-ray Week of October 24, 2016

In 2001 CDC was involved with the World Trade Center and bioterrorist anthrax attacks and response. See more in the EID – Investigation of Bioterrorism-Related Anthrax, United States, 2001: Epidemiologic Findings.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Building Week of October 17, 2016

In 1999 CDC launched National Pharmaceutical Stockpile (now the ), a stockpile of drugs, vaccines, and other medical products and supplies, to provide for the emergency health security of the US and its territories.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Two girls Week of October 10, 2016

In 1994 the Vaccines for Children Program was established. It’s a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay. Learn more here

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CDC Fact of the Week

CDC Building Week of October 3, 2016

In 1992, the agency is renamed Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to reflect a broader role and vision. The agency is asked by Congress to continue using the initials “CDC.”

CDC Fact of the Week

Group of school children Week of September 19, 2016

In 1988 CDC establishes the Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion to target chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes

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CDC Fact of the Week

Act against AIDS Week of September 12, 2016

In 1981 MMWR (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report) publishes a report of five cases of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) among previously healthy young men in Los Angeles. Local clinicians and the Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) officer stationed at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health prepares the report and submits it to MMWR. CDC develops an investigative team to identify risk factors and to develop a case definition for national surveillance (First AIDS cases reported).

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CDC Fact of the Week

Road to Zero Week of August 29, 2016

In 1976 CDC sends disease detectives to investigate two large outbreaks of an unknown deadly hemorrhagic fever in Zaire and Sudan, a disease later known as Ebola. Nearly 4 decades later Ebola was making news around the world. Since March 2014, West Africa has experienced the largest outbreak of Ebola in history. CDC and partners have worked to contain this epidemic at its source. Learn more.  

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of August 22, 2016

In 1970 the National Communicable Disease Center (NCDC) is renamed Center for Disease Control (CDC). In 1979 CDC assumes lead responsibility in the US Public Health Service for environmental emergency response

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CDC Fact of the Week

Graphic: Woman holding child Week of August 15, 2016

In 1963 the Immunization Assistance Grant Program is established and CDC administers the Vaccination Assistance Act through project grants. The program is designed to raise and maintain high levels of immunization against; poliomyelitis, diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of August 8, 2016

In 1960, the Tuberculosis Program transfers from the US Public Health Service to CDC. The Tuberculosis laboratory is already in Atlanta at Lawson General Hospital, having moved there several years earlier. 

In the early 20th century, TB was the leading cause of death in the United States. From that point TB cases steadily declined until the 1980s and early 1990s when a TB resurgence occurred with over 25,000 TB cases being reported per year. The resurgence was associated with the emergence of the HIV epidemic, increased immigration from countries with high TB rates, and a deterioration of TB control programs in many jurisdictions. Following a major investment in TB control activities at all levels of government, TB cases began to decline again. In 2014, the reported number of US TB cases was 9,421, with a case rate of 3.0 cases per 100,000 population (30 per million population). Since the 1992 TB resurgence peak in the United States, the number of TB cases reported annually has decreased by 65 percent. 

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of August 1, 2016

In 1957, the Asian flu pandemic emerged in Hong Kong with millions of cases and thousands of deaths. CDC quickly set up an influenza surveillance unit, a joint operation of the Epidemiology and Laboratory Branches.  

In January 2016, an outbreak of HPAI (H7N8) virus was reported in a commercial turkey flock in Dubois County, Indiana. LPAI (H7N8) was subsequently detected in eight nearby turkey flocks. No transmission of HPAI (H7N8) or LPAI (H7N8) virus to humans was reported. More information is available here.

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CDC Fact of the Week

a medic administering polio vaccine drops to a child Week of July 25, 2016

In 1955 during the National Polio Immunization Program, EIS officers trace 260 polio cases to improper vaccine production methods. As a result, CDC establishes the Polio Surveillance Program.

In 1988, the World Health Assembly adopted a resolution for the worldwide eradication of polio. It marked the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), spearheaded by national governments, CDC, Rotary International, WHO, and UNICEF, with substantial support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

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CDC Fact of the Week

In 1948 CDC conducts the first training courses in Laboratory Diagnosis of Tuberculosis
Week of July 11, 2016

In 1948 CDC conducts the first training courses in Laboratory Diagnosis of Tuberculosis and Mycotic Diseases. Today Tuberculosis (TB) is still one of the world’s deadliest diseases: 

One third of the world’s population is infected with TB.

In 2014, 9.6 million people around the world became sick with TB disease. There were 1.5 million TB-related deaths worldwide.

TB is a leading killer of people who are HIV infected.

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CDC Fact of the Week

In 1948 CDC conducts the first training courses in Laboratory Diagnosis of Tuberculosis
Week of July 11, 2016

In 1948 CDC conducts the first training courses in Laboratory Diagnosis of Tuberculosis and Mycotic Diseases. Today Tuberculosis (TB) is still one of the world’s deadliest diseases: 

One third of the world’s population is infected with TB.

In 2014, 9.6 million people around the world became sick with TB disease. There were 1.5 million TB-related deaths worldwide.

TB is a leading killer of people who are HIV infected.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of July 4, 2016

In 1949 CDC offered disaster aid in response to multiple chemical explosions in Texas City, TX. Afterwards, CDC was designated as the official response agency for future epidemics and disasters. Today The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) brings together scientists from across CDC to analyze, validate, and efficiently exchange information during a public health emergency and connect with emergency response partners. When activated for a response, the EOC can accommodate up to 230 personnel per 8-hour shift to handle situations ranging from local interests to worldwide incidents. 

The EOC coordinates the deployment of CDC staff and the procurement and management of all equipment and supplies that CDC responders may need during their deployment. 

In addition, the EOC has the ability to rapidly transport life-supporting medications, samples and specimens, and personnel anywhere in the world around the clock within two hours of notification for domestic missions and six hours for international missions. 

Since its inception in September 2001, the EOC has responded to more than 50 public health threats, including hurricanes, food borne disease outbreaks, the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, and the Haiti cholera outbreak. In addition to emergencies, the EOC may also be activated for planned events (e.g., presidential inaugurations and Olympics taking place in the US) to monitor for incidents that may affect the public’s health. See comprehensive list of public health responses supported by the EOC since 2001.

CDC Fact of the Week

Week of June 27, 2016

CDC celebrates its 70th anniversary July 1. To mark this milestone, our Facts of the Week for the rest of the  year will reflect various public health milestones, providing a look at then and now. 

July 1, 1946 Malaria Control in War Areas, a program within the US Public Health Service, transitions into the Communicable Disease Center (CDC) on July 1. By 1951 Malaria is considered eliminated from the US. Flash forward to January 22, 2016. CDC’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated for Zika virus disease on January 22, 2016, and moved to a level 1 activation—the highest level—on February 8, 2016. 

CDC Fact of the Week

Grocery store receipt
Week of June 20, 2016

Each year, about 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) get sick from a foodborne illness. CDC offers ways you can help protect others from getting sick.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of June 13, 2016

Cancer survivors are living longer after their diagnosis, but at least one-third of the more than 14 million survivors in the United States face physical, mental, social, job, or financial problems related to their cancer experience. CDC works with community partners to bring attention to these and other challenges faced by cancer survivors and provide education on ways to improve survivors’ health and quality of life.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of June 6, 2016

If you live in coastal areas at risk, CDC encourages you to begin preparing yourself for hurricane season. The Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 through November 30 each year. Please follow these important hurricane preparedness tips from CDC.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of May 31, 2016

Pools, waterparks, hot tubs/spas, and water playgrounds are great places to have fun, be active, or just relax. Having fun while you are in the water this summer means knowing how to stay healthy and safe! Learn more from CDC.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of May 24, 2016

CDC provides important steps to take before, during, and after a flood.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Woman framing eyes with fingers Week of May 16, 2016

May is Healthy Vision Month. CDC reminds you eye diseases are common and can go unnoticed for a long time—some have no symptoms. CDC offers tips for vision health.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Clean Hands Count Week of May 9, 2016

CDC reminds you clean hands can protect you from serious infections while you are a patient in a healthcare facility. Most germs that cause serious infections in healthcare are spread by people’s actions. Hand hygiene is a great way to prevent infections.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Group of men and women Week of May 2, 2016

About 53 million US adults have arthritis. However, the number of men and women with arthritis is growing and expected to reach more than 78 million in 2040, according to a new CDC study. Learn what to do so you feel your best with arthritis.  

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CDC Fact of the Week

Minority Health Week of April 25, 2016

April is National Minority Health Month. The theme for 2016 is “Accelerating Health Equity for the Nation.” Learn what CDC is doing and help raise awareness of the health disparities that affect minorities.  

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CDC Fact of the Week

Handwashing Week of April 18, 2016

Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from getting sick. CDC has tips on how and when to wash your hands to protect yourself and others.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Mother and daughter reading book Week of April 11, 2016

High-quality early intervention services can change a child’s developmental path and improve outcomes for children, families, and communities. CDC advises if you’re concerned about your child’s development, don’t wait. You know your child best. Use a developmental milestones checklist, talk with your child’s doctor, and call your local early intervention program.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Hands joined in a circle Week of April 4, 2016

April 4-10, 2016 is National Public Health Week. Read more about this year’s public health themes and how CDC is working towards the mission of Healthiest Nation 2030.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Doctor comforting patient Week of March 28, 2016

March is Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month. CDC asks, are you at risk? Learn the signs and symptoms.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Group of people on the beach Week of March 21, 2016

Bitten by the travel bug for spring break this year? Follow these CDC tips to reduce your risk of illness or injury abroad.  

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CDC Fact of the Week

Nurse showing chart to woman Week of March 14, 2016

Turn to CDC for information on kidney health. Your kidneys aren’t very large—each is just the size of a computer mouse—but they’re hard-working. How well are your kidneys working?

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CDC Fact of the Week

crowd of people Week of March 7, 2016

Reducing health disparities brings us closer to reaching health equity. Learn about health equity and what CDC is doing to reduce health disparities.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Woman sleeping Week of February 29, 2016

35 percent of US adults do not get enough sleep, reports CDC. Not getting enough sleep continues to be a problem in the US. 

Are you one of those adults? Learn more about your risk and how many adults don’t get enough sleep.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Woman with exercise ball Week of February 22, 2016

February is American Heart Month. Learn about heart disease in women and what you can do to keep a healthy heart.

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CDC Fact of the Week

bacteria Week of February 15, 2016

CDC has 17,000 staff in more than 60 countries. Learn what we are doing.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of February 8, 2016

CDC reminds you lead poisoning can be prevented. The key is to keep children from coming in contact with lead. If children are lead poisoned they must be treated. Learn how to prevent children’s exposure to lead.   

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CDC Fact of the Week

mosquito Week of February 1, 2016

Learn more about Zika virus. CDC has information on symptoms and how the virus spreads.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Smiling girl Week of January 25, 2016

Did you know that birth defects affect one in every 33 babies born in the United States? That means about one child in every school classroom might be affected. Those are not just numbers—they represent real babies and families. CDC provides these family stories to learn more about birth defects and how these conditions can impact lives.

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CDC Fact of the Week

Tracking Network Week of January 18, 2016

CDC’s Tracking Network is an excellent data source for environmental hazards, exposures, and health conditions that can be a valuable asset to the health impact assessment process. Learn more

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CDC Fact of the Week

Week of January 11, 2016

Make 2016 your healthiest year yet! CDC suggests ways to boost your health and well-being, and be an inspiration!  

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CDC Fact of the Week

Family in bed blowing their noses
Week of January 4, 2016

CDC reminds you to protect yourself and others from the common cold. Here are some tips.

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