Deb Balzer (@DebBalzer)
Deb Balzer is a Senior Communications Specialist at Mayo Clinic. She began her career as a TV news producer in Rochester, NY, before joining CONUS Communications, a pioneering national news satellite organization. She also field produced for ABC, CNN, the Rachael Ray Show and Farmers’ Almanac TV. Joining Mayo Clinic in 2015, Deb writes, produces and collaborates on medical stories with Mayo Clinic’s leading experts, providing trusted health and medical information to help patients.
Tetanus is a serious infection that can be life-threatening and easily prevented with vaccination. It is caused by a toxin produced by spores of the bacteria, Clostridium[...]
It's estimated that about 1 in every 10 Americans has kidney disease. Rising rates of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity — all risk factors[...]
A second wave of influenza infection is underway in parts of the U.S., and it is a different strain that started the flu season. "Typically, we[...]
Most healthy people who become sick with the flu recover without needing to seek medical attention. For some, complications can arise. An estimated more than[...]
If you skipped getting an annual flu shot, it's not too late. And getting the shot is highly encouraged says Dr. Pritish Tosh, a Mayo Clinic[...]
How many times did your parents tell you to turn down the loud music because you're going to lose your hearing? They had a point. Age-related[...]
Ten states have reported pockets of measles outbreaks since January. The infectious and deadly disease was eradicated in the U.S. in 2000. However, it continues[...]
People who consumed raw or unpasteurized milk from a Pennsylvania farm may have been exposed to Brucella strain RB51 — a drug-resistant bacteria that can lead to brucellosis. This strain[...]
Packing a healthy lunch seems like an easy task, but sometimes all the sandwich choices may seem daunting. Many deli, or processed meats, are packed[...]
If you have the flu, you'll likely have a fever, as well. Fever is a temporary increase in body temperate and a common symptom of[...]
Donating blood can save lives. There are different blood types. Do you know yours? You could be one of the people whose blood type is in[...]
Influenza is now widespread in many areas of the U.S. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says activity is now "elevated" with millions of[...]