Health & Wellness News

Take a look at stories that ran throughout the week of which we are most proud, had a profound impact on readers or that you might want to look at again.

Lehigh Valley Health Network and Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals announced plans to merge this week. A healthcare analyst weighs in on what these types of deals mean for employees and patients.

If ultimately completed, the combined health care system would operate 30 hospitals and more than 700 outpatient sites, with more than 62,000 employees, according to LVHN and Jefferson Health.

Pa.'s governor wants more students to take advantage of the universal free breakfast program in schools across the state. He is challenging administrators to promote the program and increase participation.

A respiratory illness is plaguing dogs in 16 states, including Pennsylvania. The Lehigh Valley Humane Society is weighing in on the signs and symptoms of the virus.

News Director Jen Rehill talks to reporters Will Oliver and Brittany Sweeney.

A new hospital in the St. Luke’s University Health Network is now open. The ribbon was cut on the orthopedic hospital Wednesday and patients will start being seen at the South Whitehall Township location next week.

Strep throat is common this time of year among children, but as cases are on the rise a local doctor stresses the importance of getting kids tested and on medication. The bacteria can also cause a condition called scarlet fever.

Two live reindeer visited residents at the Fellowship Community continuing care retirement community in Whitehall Township on Tuesday.

Sara Frassinelli of Allentown finds strength during her breast cancer battle from a number of areas, especially from her 7-year-old son.

A local pediatrician says they’ve had to narrow the number of Lehigh Valley children who can receive a new RSV preventative antibody treatment because of a shortage of the product. She believes the treatment maker underestimated the demand.

Under the program, health care workers give temporary assistance to hospitals in need of help.

Some prep time now will make it easier on the household when a family member tests positive.

Stafffing shortages at day cares and preschools add another layer of chaos for the littlest learners.

The lead author suggests tighter regulations on the chemical class known as phthalates.

Journalist Gene Tauber says it's about 'helping people make decisions on how to reduce their own risk.'

'Our emergency rooms are being inundated ...,' says one doctor.

John Fielding's right wing posts could affect how he does his job, some fear.

The only number that dropped last week was the number of vaccines administered.

A nationwide survey sheds light on how self-reporting can predict infection rates.

In one 24-hour period earlier this month, 10 patients at LVHN died from COVID-19, physician says.

The COVID treatment is not a replacement for a vaccination, experts say.

Each day is a challenge as those who answer calls get sick too, officials say.