Dear Dr. Roach: I was wondering if you could explain why some vaccinations seem to completely protect against a disease, while others do not. For example, smallpox was completely eradicated by vaccination, and the hepatitis B vaccine is good for life and 98% to 100% effective, according to the World Health Organization. Yet we need […]
Advice
The effectiveness of vaccines is complicated
Dear Dr. Roach: I was wondering if you could explain why some vaccinations seem to completely protect against a disease, while others do not. For example, smallpox was completely eradicated by vaccination, and the hepatitis B vaccine is good for life and 98% to 100% effective, according to the World Health Organization. Yet we need […]
Libra: knowledge and experience will capture attention, and the way you carry out your promises will impress someone of influence.
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Giselle Eisenberg, 15; Jenna Fischer, 48; Rachel Weisz, 52; Bryan Cranston, 66. Happy Birthday: Sift through all the stuff you’ve accumulated and dump what’s collecting dust. Revise your schedule to meet your needs. You’ll get a sense of what’s possible and the steps required to fine-tune your life if you […]
After years of inattention family takes separate path
DEAR ABBY: We married and had children very late in life, so our children are by far the youngest in our extended family. When they graduated from high school, we tried to throw a party (with the many relatives on my partner’s side and a small number of mine), but only three people could come. […]
Decongestants: a cause and cure for blocked eustachian tubes
Dear Dr. Roach: At a recent visit with my ear, nose and throat doctor, he commented that frequent use of antihistamines with decongestants can lead to blocked eustachian tubes. Is that statement correct? I live where the humidity is often above 75%, and I use over-the-counter antihistamines with decongestants nearly every day. Otherwise, I would […]
Decongestants: a cause and cure for blocked eustachian tubes
Dear Dr. Roach: At a recent visit with my ear, nose and throat doctor, he commented that frequent use of antihistamines with decongestants can lead to blocked eustachian tubes. Is that statement correct? I live where the humidity is often above 75%, and I use over-the-counter antihistamines with decongestants nearly every day. Otherwise, I would […]
Virgo: Keep your thoughts to yourself to avoid getting into a senseless battle. Size up the situation,
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Shaquille O’Neal, 50; Connie Britton, 55; D.L. Hughley, 59; Rob Reiner, 75. Happy Birthday: Settle down and settle in. It’s important to recognize and appreciate what you have. Put together a plan that encourages you to revamp your skills, knowledge and direction. A new lease on life will help revive […]
Man’s incessant lying makes his partner wary
DEAR ABBY: My boyfriend has this bad habit when we meet new people. It can range from a neighbor to someone like our landlord. During the course of a conversation, he’ll lie and exaggerate certain facts about his life, our life or something more sensitive, such as our financial situation (which, might I add, is […]
Leo: Addressing issues head-on will give you the strength to stand up for what you want and to dismiss what worries you.
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Kevin Connolly, 48; Matt Lucas, 48; Eva Mendes, 48; Michael Irvin, 56. Happy Birthday: A positive attitude will help you reach your goal. Gravitate toward changes that will encourage less stress. Better organization and a minimalist approach to life will free up cash and give you the license to enjoy […]
Hard working wife finally ready to hit the bricks
DEAR ABBY: I have been married to “Arthur” for 50 years. There have been many problems in our marriage, and we even separated a couple times. I had kids to raise and never enough money to break it off completely. Over the last 13 years, my husband has been so-called “unable to work” and on […]