https://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/prevent-virusesFri, 18 Sep 2026 19:12:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:671c4b18-3ca4-4650-86d7-35b0324c50e3EquipoConnectLas probabilidades de contraer una enfermedad viral son mayores en ciertas épocas del año, como durante el regreso a clases, cuando bajan las temperaturas y las personas pasan más tiempo en interiores, antes de las fiestas de otoño e invierno y al comienzo del nuevo año. Ahora es el momento de encontrar las mejores maneras de protegerte a ti y a tu familia de virus como los del resfriado, la gripe, la COVID-19 y el VRS ( virus respiratorio sincitial ). Los virus pueden causar enfermedades de distinta gravedad, desde leves hasta muy graves. Aunque el cuerpo de muchas personas puede combatir la mayoría de las enfermedades virales, algunas son más vulnerables. Los niños y los adultos mayores pueden enfermarse gravemente o incluso morir a causa de algunos virus. Por eso es importante que tú y tu familia tengan un plan. Un virus se propaga rápidamente si se transmite por el aire, como los virus de la COVID-19, el VRS, el resfriado o la gripe. Eso significa que se propaga cuando las personas enfermas no se cubren la cara al estar cerca de otras personas. El virus puede permanecer en el aire el tiempo suficiente para llegar a otras personas, aunque no estén cerca. A veces también puede propagarse cuando el virus está en las manos de una persona infectada o en algo que haya tocado. Hay medidas que puedes tomar para protegerte a ti y a tu familia. Vacúnate Vacúnate contra la gripe. Al igual que el resfriado, la gripe es contagiosa y causada por un virus. A diferencia del resfriado, puedes vacunarte para ayudar a protegerte a ti y a otras personas contra la gripe. Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, en inglés) indican que la mayoría de las personas mayores de seis meses deben vacunarse contra la gripe cada año . La gripe puede propagarse antes de que aparezcan los síntomas. Por eso otras personas pueden contagiarte incluso antes de saber que tienen gripe. La vacuna tarda aproximadamente dos semanas en proteger contra la infección por el virus de la gripe. Así que vacúnate lo antes posible. También es importante que estés al día con las vacunas y los refuerzos contra la COVID-19 . Los CDC indican que las vacunas son una forma segura y eficaz de protegerte contra la COVID-19. La vacuna se recomienda para la mayoría de las personas mayores de seis meses. Evita los gérmenes Seguir algunos pasos comunes puede ayudar a prevenir enfermedades. Recuerda hacer lo siguiente: Lávate las manos frecuentemente con agua y jabón durante al menos 20 segundos. Cuando no tengas agua y jabón a la mano, usa un desinfectante de manos a base de alcohol. Cuando tosas, cúbrete la boca y la nariz con un pañuelo desechable o con la camisa. Enséñales a los niños a doblar el brazo frente a la cara y a toser en la parte interior del codo. Después de usar un pañuelo desechable, tíralo a la basura. Evita tocarte los ojos, la nariz y la boca con las manos sin lavar cuando estés en un lugar público. Evita el contacto cercano con personas que estén enfermas. Quédate en casa cuando estés enfermo. Limpia y desinfecta los objetos y las superficies que se tocan con frecuencia. Esto incluye juguetes, manijas de puertas, grifos y controles remotos de televisión. No compartas bebidas ni utensilios cuando estés fuera de casa. Cada una de estas medidas ayuda a reducir el riesgo de contraer y propagar enfermedades infecciosas. Sin embargo, no existe una sola manera de prevenirlas. Por eso es importante practicar buenos hábitos que te ayuden a reducir el riesgo, señala Cleveland Clinic . Esto es especialmente importante para las personas con mayor riesgo de contraer enfermedades infecciosas, que incluyen: las personas con el sistema inmunitario debilitado, como quienes reciben tratamiento contra el cáncer, viven con VIH (sida) o toman ciertos medicamentos; los niños pequeños; las embarazadas; los adultos mayores de 60 años; las personas que no están vacunadas contra enfermedades infecciosas comunes; el personal de atención médica. Enfermarse no es agradable para nadie y puede ser peligroso. Pero puedes reducir considerablemente el riesgo al protegerte activamente a ti y a tu familia. ¿No sabes qué tienes? Si tienes resfriado, estornudos, tos o dolor de garganta, puede ser difícil saber si los síntomas se deben a alergias, un resfriado, la gripe o la COVID-19. Obtén consejos para saber cómo distinguirlos. Fuentes: Infectious Diseases , Cleveland Clinic, 2025; Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19 , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; About Influenza , CDC, 2026; COVID-19 Vaccines , CDC, 2025; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) , CDCTu SaludEspañolVacunasPrevención de la gripeLa gripeCOVID-19Salud y Bienestarhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/ask-bcbsok/f/questions-and-answers/295/having-trouble-registering-my-account/432Fri, 04 Sep 2026 18:12:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:88398e18-06ab-4a52-b4b0-f822b70f22e0BCBSOK Connect TeamHi Josh, We can help you with this if you'd like to send us a private message. ~ KWhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/ask-bcbsok/f/questions-and-answers/295/having-trouble-registering-my-account/431Fri, 04 Sep 2026 18:08:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:c1040358-b045-4b9d-b78b-eeb545452f0aJosh alexanderI am a member and I still have not received my card in the mail so I don't know my member ID number or anything my insurance took effect 9/1 and would like to either get a card or through the app or howeverhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/forma-rapida-de-ponerte-en-formaFri, 04 Sep 2026 10:25:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:e1c08938-1f33-4488-aeab-3a567be4c017EquipoConnectSi quieres dar un giro a tu rutina de ejercicio, tienes muchas opciones. Si quieres aumentar tu nivel de acondicionamiento físico pero no tienes mucho tiempo, un entrenamiento más corto y eficiente puede ser la respuesta. Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades afirman que los adultos deben realizar regularmente actividades aeróbicas y de fortalecimiento muscular. El objetivo es hacer 150 minutos de ejercicio a la semana. Puedes repartir esos 150 minutos como más te convenga. Lo que funcione para ti Empieza por analizar tu nivel físico actual. Si aún no eres activo/a, habla con tu médico antes de comenzar un nuevo plan de ejercicios. Algunas formas de moverte más, como añadir más pasos a tu día o dedicar tiempo a los estiramientos, son seguras para muchas personas. Pero los planes de ejercicio no son iguales para todos. Si ya eres una persona activa y buscas algo nuevo, prueba los microentrenamientos. Las sesiones de ejercicio reducidas pueden ser muy eficaces. Y son una ventaja para quienes no tienen mucho tiempo para hacer ejercicio. Entrenamiento por intervalos Un microentrenamiento es el entrenamiento por intervalos. El entrenamiento aeróbico por intervalos , a veces llamado entrenamiento por intervalos de alta intensidad (HIIT), comenzó con los atletas élite. Pero no necesitas ser un atleta para hacerlo. El entrenamiento por intervalos consiste en alternar ráfagas cortas de actividad intensa con intervalos más largos de actividad menos intensa. Para empezar, las ráfagas de mayor intensidad deben ser de unos 30 segundos cada una, seguidas de una actividad de intensidad regular durante uno o dos minutos. El tipo de actividad que utilices para el entrenamiento por intervalos depende de tu nivel de acondicionamiento físico y de lo que te guste hacer. Es una forma de quemar más calorías en menos tiempo. También puede ayudar a evitar que te aburras. Otra ventaja es que no requiere de ningún equipo nuevo. La idea puede incorporarse a lo que ya estás haciendo. Prueba correr un poco en tu paseo habitual o a aumentar el ritmo regularmente durante una caminata. Puedes empezar a añadir intervalos a tu programa de entrenamiento poco a poco, sólo uno o dos intervalos de mayor intensidad durante cada entrenamiento. A medida que tu forma física mejore, puedes retarte a ti mismo con más intervalos. Incrementa hasta un total de 30 minutos para tu entrenamiento a intervalos. Asegúrate de hacer calentamientos durante unos cinco minutos antes de empezar a añadir intervalos y de enfriarte durante cinco minutos. Un total de 10 a 15 minutos de tu entrenamiento debe realizarse a una mayor intensidad. Durante el resto del tiempo, incluyendo el calentamiento y el enfriamiento, la actividad debe realizarse a un nivel de intensidad normal. Además de conseguir un mejor entrenamiento en un periodo de tiempo más corto, el entrenamiento a intervalos puede sacarte de un bache de aburrimiento al añadir algo nuevo. Si tienes problemas de salud o no haces ejercicio con regularidad, consulta a tu médico antes de empezar cualquier tipo de entrenamiento a intervalos. Otras opciones de acondicionamiento físico Si buscas más ideas que te ayuden a mantener tu ejercicio interesante, pruebe algunas de estas ideas. Entrenamiento en línea: Fácil de hacer en casa, el entrenamiento en línea puede hacerse a solas o en grupo. Puede ser una clase individual con un profesor. Dispositivos portátiles: Mantente motivado/a y en el camino correcto con un reloj inteligente o un rastreador de acondicionamiento físico. Pueden ayudarte a vigilar tu ritmo cardíaco y a controlar el tiempo que pasas de forma activa, sedentaria o durmiendo. Entrenamiento con el peso del cuerpo: El entrenamiento con pesas utilizando el peso del cuerpo es un plan que vuelve a lo elemental y puede ser barato porque utiliza poco equipo. Actividades organizadas al aire libre: Caminatas en grupo, paseos en bicicleta, excursiones... el cielo es el límite con actividades al aire libre. Y hacer ejercicio en grupo puede ayudarte a mantener la motivación y a divertirte más. Entrenamiento de fuerza con pesas libres: El entrenamiento con pesas libres puede hacerse solo o con un compañero o grupo en un gimnasio, en casa o incluso al aire libre. Es una buena idea empezar con un entrenador que te muestre la forma adecuada. Programas de acondicionamiento físico para personas mayores: Ahora existen más programas de acondicionamiento físico para los Baby Boomers que desean mantenerse activos. Sources: Adult Activity: An Overview , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023; Interval training for heart health , Mayo Clinic, 2023; Interval training: A shorter, more enjoyable workout? , Harvard Medical School, 2024Tu SaludEspañolEjercicioNutriciónpesohttps://connect.bcbsok.com/ask-bcbsok/f/questions-and-answers/295/having-trouble-registering-my-account/430Thu, 03 Sep 2026 13:24:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:d7872c02-44b9-4221-abbe-a996325f3a78BCBSOK Connect TeamHi Brian, We have responded to your private message. ~ KWhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/ask-bcbsok/f/questions-and-answers/295/having-trouble-registering-my-account/429Wed, 02 Sep 2026 23:57:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:71455af5-c910-4844-a1b7-b15bd32db9c1BrianPetI am encountering the same issue. Any help is appreciated.https://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/copd-lungs-heart-stop-smokingTue, 01 Sep 2026 15:04:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:fb5aeeae-f274-45ed-bb79-2cc0068fb04eBCBSOK Connect TeamIf you suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) , every breath can be a struggle. COPD is a serious health condition. It is the result of damage to the lungs that narrows airways and makes it very hard to breathe. Over time, it can get worse. Once there is damage to the lungs, it can’t be corrected. Congestive heart failure is another very serious condition that is tied to COPD. The lungs and heart are very closely connected. When healthy, the lungs and heart work together to make sure every part of your body gets the oxygen it needs. When they don’t work together, your health can worsen quickly. Low oxygen in the blood caused by COPD puts too much strain on the heart and makes heart failure worse. Excess fluid in the lungs caused by heart failure can make breathing even more difficult for someone with COPD. Even more challenging, many people with COPD struggle with other health conditions too. Depression, sleep apnea, lung cancer, asthma and diabetes can be complications for COPD sufferers. Sometimes, a sudden illness, such as pneumonia or the flu, can quickly become critical for people with COPD. Your doctor will have to monitor all the medicines you take to make sure they don’t make your COPD or other health problems worse. What Causes COPD? Long-term smoking or exposure to smoke are the main causes of COPD. If you quit smoking, it can help prevent complications and slow its progress. If you’re a smoker and have a hard time breathing, talk with your doctor about testing for COPD. Your care provider can also recommend programs and products to help you quit smoking. Other causes of COPD include: Indoor air pollution from cleaning products, burning wood in fireplaces and scented candles Exposure to dust and chemical fumes in the workplace Asthma Frequent respiratory infections, especially during childhood Heavy or long-term exposure to secondhand smoke and other air pollutants Try to avoid these irritants. For example, if your home is being painted or sprayed for insects, have it done while you are away. Keep your windows closed and stay indoors when pollen counts or ozone rates are high. Follow your treatments for COPD exactly as your doctor directs. It can help you breathe easier, stay more active and avoid severe symptoms. Ask your doctor about getting COVID-19, flu, RSV and pneumonia shots. Call your doctor if your symptoms grow worse, or if you have any signs of an infection, such as a fever. Seek emergency help if: You have difficulty walking or talking Your heart is beating very fast or irregularly Your lips or fingernails become gray or blue Your breathing is fast and hard, even when you use your medicine If you have COPD, two of the most important things you can do are to quit smoking and get ongoing medical care. Being under the care of a doctor who can track your illness will set you up for success in managing your COPD. Quit smoking and work with a provider who can help to monitor your health. Sources: COPD , Mayo Clinic, 2026; Heart Failure , Mayo Clinic, 2025Health and WellnessHeart DiseaseHeart HealthCOPDLung DiseaseEmphysemaStop Smokinghttps://connect.bcbsok.com/my-coverage-explained/b/weblog/posts/fitness-program-waived-enrollmentTue, 01 Sep 2026 08:12:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:75147c78-3018-476a-8bc2-c1a602209301BCBSOK Connect TeamWell onTarget and the Fitness Program are not available to all members. Check your online account information or ask your benefits administrator to see if you have these benefits. If you’re looking to stay in shape, or get back in shape, now is a good time to join the fitness program. The $19 enrollment fee will be waived for eligible new members who sign up now through Oct. 31, 2026.* Join today and get access to a nationwide network of participating facilities so you can work out whether traveling, at home or at work. You can also choose digital options like online fitness videos and live classes. Enjoy All the Fitness Program Benefits The Fitness Program offers flexible plan options ranging from $19 to $239 a month. You can select a plan option that best suits your lifestyle. You’ll have access to all locations available in the plan you choose, as well as locations in any of the lower-priced plan options. Digital fitness options are also included in all plans at no cost. The Digital Only plan is $10 per month. Choose from thousands of digital fitness videos and live classes. More Fitness Program Features Real-time check-in and activity reporting information is provided through the Well onTarget Fitness Program mobile app and Well onTarget portal. Get Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) discounts through Choices by Whole Health Living.** Save money through a nationwide network of 40,000 health and well-being providers such as acupuncturists, massage therapists and personal trainers. To take advantage of these discounts, register at wholehealthliving.com . Go online to find fitness locations and track visits. Get the Well onTarget Fitness Program Mobile App You can use the Well onTarget Fitness Program app to: Have real-time check-in and activity reporting Explore nearby locations in the Fitness Program network Get easy access to your Fitness Program membership card Download the Well onTarget Fitness Program app free of charge from the Apple and Android app stores. Search for “Well onTarget Fitness Program.” Be sure to register in the Fitness Program portal before you start using the app. After you’ve registered, you can log in to the Well onTarget Fitness Program app using your Fitness Program portal username and password. Join Now To get the waived fee, use coupon code OCT26FP when you enroll. To enroll, log in to your Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma member account , go to the My Health drop-down menu and select Wellness . Then scroll down to Fitness Program . You can decide on the plan that best meets your needs and select the fitness location that is best for you. Remember to enter the coupon code OCT26FP during enrollment before Oct . 31 to get the waived fee. You can also enroll by calling 888-762-BLUE (2583) Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT (6 a.m. and 6 p.m. MT). *After Oct. 31, 2026, regular enrollment fees will apply to all new memberships. This offer can’t be combined with any other promotional offers. ** Choices by WholeHealth Living benefits are not offered in Oklahoma and Montana. The waived enrollment promotion is only available to members with the Fitness Program. Individuals must be 18 years old to purchase a membership. Dependents 16 to 17 years old can join but must be accompanied to the location by a parent/guardian who is also a Fitness Program member. Check your preferred location to see their membership age policy. Underage dependents can log in and join through the primary member’s account as an “additional member.” Member agrees to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, including making all disclosures and paying all taxes with respect to their receipt of any reward. The Fitness Program is provided by Tivity Health TM , an independent contractor that administers the Prime Network of fitness locations. The Prime Network is made up of independently owned and operated fitness locations. No endorsements, representations or warranties are made regarding third-party vendors and the products and services offered by them.ExerciseFitness ProgramBenefits and CoverageWell onTargethttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/secret-to-a-better-life-at-any-ageMon, 31 Aug 2026 19:27:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:f4b522d2-4faf-45db-8775-e1f858df0ee0BCBSOK Connect TeamThere’s a not-so-secret way to live better and longer: take care of yourself. But is being physically healthy the only path to living your best life? What about happiness? It turns out happiness improves health and vice versa. The two work together. The secret to truly living the good life? Make both a priority Health Benefits of Happiness Research has connected being happy with a number of physical health benefits. It is known to lower stress, blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and stroke. It can also boost one’s immune system and ability to recover from injuries. Having a positive outlook can even improve digestion and sleep. How it Works Feelings of happiness or joy cause your brain to release the so-called “happy hormones,” endorphins and serotonin. These help balance another important hormone, cortisol, often known as the stress hormone. Cortisol is useful in short bursts to help regulate certain body functions. But, if it stays high for too long it can raise your risk for many health problems or make them worse. Purposely working to create the sense of well-being and calm from being happy helps put cortisol and stress in check. Keep Up With Health Checks Finding your balance of health and happiness begins with knowing the status of your physical health. Getting a yearly physical exam and regular health screenings can help catch any problems early, when they can be more successfully treated. There are helpful lists online that tell you about the screenings you may need at different ages . Also check out the healthy living by age checklists from the U.S. Office on Women’s Health. See what you need to do in each decade of life, starting in your 20s, up through your 90s. Be Active to Keep Your Body and Mind Fit Research shows that sticking with certain healthy habits can add years to your life and help you avoid serious illnesses, like cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Exercise is one of those critical habits. Getting at least 30 minutes of moderate-effort physical activity a day, like brisk walking, can have a big impact. Regular activity helps you: Maintain a healthy weight Keep muscles and bones stronger and lower your risk of injury as you get older Boost your energy so you can do more of the things you want to do over time Sleep better The National Institute on Aging says physical activity also supports emotional and mental health. Being active helps with happiness. It can improve your mood and reduce feelings of depression and stress. Find out how to work more movement into your day . Make Happiness Happen Living a fulfilling life can bring with it a positive outlook. This feeling of optimism in turn helps you have more desire to eat well, exercise and keep self-care on your to-do list says Northwestern Medicine ® . Being happy and healthy work hand-in-hand to make your life better. So how do you achieve happiness? Prevention offers a list of habits for building happiness into your life. A few examples include: Be social – Feeling connected to family and friends or through events in your community helps stave off loneliness and depression, and keeps you mentally engaged. Take time for gratitude – Focusing on the good in your life helps boost resilience and positivity. Take a few minutes every day to think of or write down five or more things you’re grateful for. Make a “joy list” of activities that make you smile inside.– Do at least one each day. Relax with a book, get coffee at your favorite shop, play with pets or care for plants. The options are endless. Spend time in nature – Being outdoors just 30 minutes or more a week can help relieve stress and increase feelings of well-being. Focus on personal growth – Take on a fun or interesting project, set a challenging goal and work toward it, explore new places either far away or in your own community, or start a hobby. Be kind to yourself – Try saying daily positive affirmations, take time to do deep breathing or meditation exercises and allow yourself to think and be playful. Experiencing everyday things, like watching a butterfly with childlike wonder can be just the glimmer of joy you need. Be kind to others – Give compliments, practice random acts of kindness regularly, send notes of thanks or encouragement often, talk to strangers with an open heart or volunteer. Think about what you can do to make your life journey all it can be. Taking better care of your health includes working on being happy. Your best life can be found when you choose your whole self – body, mind and soul. Sources: How Happiness Impacts Your Health: The Science Behind Positive Emotions and Stress Relief , Northwestern Medicine, 2026; You Can Find Joy Every Day. Experts Swear By These 28 Habits for a Happier Life , Prevention, 2024; How to Be Happy: 12 Habits to Add to Your Routine , Healthline, 2025; What Do We Know About Healthy Aging? , National Institute on Aging, 2022; Healthy Living by Age , U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health, 2025; Health Benefits of Exercise and Physical Activity , National Institute on Aging, 2025; Healthy Living - Get Your Well-Woman Visit Every Year , U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, 2026; Longevity: Lifestyle Strategies for Living a Healthy, Long Life , Harvard Medical School, 2024; Happiness and Health , Psychology Today; What is Happiness? , Psychology Today, 2026Health and WellnessExerciseWomen’s HealthHealthy AgingPreventive CareHealthy Livinghttps://connect.bcbsok.com/ask-bcbsok/f/questions-and-answers/298/i-m-trying-to-register-my-account-but-having-tried-finding-my-member-id-number-i-work-for-incor/428Mon, 31 Aug 2026 13:47:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:f6242181-1e4c-450f-a92a-ffe368060e08BCBSOK Connect TeamHello, We can help you with this if you'd like to send us a private message. ~ KWhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/ghoulishly-good-tips-for-a-healthy-and-safe-halloweenMon, 31 Aug 2026 11:00:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:0e38a4f2-29a8-45dd-b339-6a3e1e5f7790BCBSOK Connect TeamThe words healthy and Halloween don’t usually go together — for obvious reasons. Halloween is the one time of year when kids let loose and eat as much candy as they can get their hands on. Still, it's possible to give your kids a fun and healthy Halloween. Here are some ideas to help you rein in the sugar rush: Feed your little monsters before they go trick-or-treating. If your kids eat a healthy, well-balanced meal before they head out the door, they’ll be full and likely to eat fewer sweets. Small bags are just right for small hands. Give your kids a smaller bag or bucket to take trick-or-treating. It will limit the amount of candy they collect and eat. If they protest, tell them it’s easier for their small hands to carry. Portion out their candy. When your kids get home from trick-or-treating, go through their candy with them. While tampering is rare it can happen. Always throw away unwrapped or suspicious items. Once that’s done, talk to your kids about how much candy they can have per day or per week. Divide their treats into agreed-upon serving sizes. If you hear some moaning, share the bright side: their candy will last longer. Keep the candy stash out of sight. In the days and weeks after Halloween, store leftover candy in a hard-to-reach spot that's out of sight. Your children will be less likely to ask for more treats than you agreed upon if they can’t see them. When you prevent your kids from overindulging on Halloween, you take a big step toward teaching them healthy habits. Keep Safety in Mind Too Don’t let your kids trick-or-treat alone. Make sure an adult stays with young kids as they make their neighborhood rounds. Encourage your older kids to trick-or-treat in a group. Set rules about where they can go and what time they need to be home. Check that costumes, head coverings and shoes fit well. Costumes can be hazardous when they're too big or too long. Make sure they're short enough to not get caught on objects or cause tripping. Hats, wigs and masks should also fit well so they don’t cover your child’s eyes. Put reflective tape on your kids' costumes. Decorate costumes with reflective tape or stickers so they stay visible when it gets dark outside. Give them flashlights or glow sticks to carry or have them wear glow necklaces or bracelets to help them stay safe. Go over walking safety reminders. Child pedestrian accidents are more likely on Halloween than any other time of the year. It’s important to remind kids about the dangers of distracted walking. This includes looking at cell phones, goofing around with friends or listening to loud music. It’s also good to remind them about staying in well-lit areas, only going to houses with porch lights on, using cross walks and not crossing streets between parked cars. Kids should never enter a home or lean into a vehicle to collect treats. Have a happy, safe and healthy Halloween! What BOO-tiful costumes are your children wearing this year? Source: Halloween Fun & Safety Tips for Kids of All Ages , American Academy of Pediatrics, 2025; Pedestrian Safety Tips for Families , American Academy of Pediatrics, 2026Health and WellnessChildren’s HealthSafetyNutritionhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/ask-bcbsok/f/questions-and-answers/298/i-m-trying-to-register-my-account-but-having-tried-finding-my-member-id-number-i-work-for-incorMon, 31 Aug 2026 01:40:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:e23e2bcc-a113-4759-95f7-4f013f351ae7Jaimie orozcoI'm trying to register my account but having tried finding my member ID number. I work for incorhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/my-coverage-explained/b/weblog/posts/what-is-an-hmoThu, 27 Aug 2026 20:35:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:b30dacbb-25ea-4b92-ba1e-2f166c060375BCBSOK Connect TeamAn HMO — or health maintenance organization — can help keep your costs lower and more predictable compared to other types of plans. With one doctor to coordinate your care, an HMO health plan is easy to use. An HMO health plan offers: Monthly premiums, copays and deductibles that are often lower than other types of plans. Access to certain doctors, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, labs, and other care and service providers in your HMO network, to help control how much you pay for health care. A primary care provider (PCP) you see for annual physicals, preventive screenings, common illness or injuries, and other routine care. A referral from your PCP is required for most other types of care, like seeing a specialist, to be covered by your plan. It's Personal An HMO health plan offers personalized care. Your care is coordinated by one doctor who knows you — your health history, current issues, medicines, lifestyle and how your family health history may affect your health. Get Started When you first sign up for an HMO health plan, you choose, or are assigned, a PCP who may be part of a medical group or independent practice association. Each person on your plan can pick a PCP. A PCP most often focuses on general internal medicine, family medicine or obstetrics/gynecology (OB/GYN). Older adults can choose a geriatric doctor. Children can have a pediatrician. If you're a member, you can find your PCP or your medical group listed on your member ID card. Your Health Partner As the primary member of your care team, your PCP plays a big role in helping you stay healthy. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your PCP: If you're a new patient, see your PCP right away. When you make your first appointment, let the doctor's office know you're a new patient. Going to your new patient appointment right away will help avoid delays in getting an appointment when you’re sick or need a referral. Get a referral. If you need to see a specialist, your PCP will refer you to one. Make sure the specialist or behavioral health care provider is in your network. Women don't need a referral to see an in-network OB/GYN. You’ll need a referral to visit a hospital for non-emergency services. To find a provider or hospital in your network, log in to your account and go to Find Care . Call your PCP when you need care. Your PCP should be your first stop when you need care. For common illness and injury, like a cold, flu, minor cuts or burns, they will fit you into their schedule or refer you to another doctor or clinic. In some cases, they may have you go an urgent care clinic or a hospital. For emergencies. If your illness or injury is life-threatening, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You don't have to stay in-network or get a referral. Just let your PCP know that you had an emergency as soon as you can. They’ll follow your treatment and manage your follow-up care. You Have Choices Finding a provider you feel comfortable with is important. You can change your PCP, medical group or independent practice association to another in-network provider at any time. The only exceptions are when you are hospitalized or in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. To change to a different PCP : Online Log in to your account. Choose the “Change PCP” link. Follow the instructions. By phone Call the customer service number on your member ID card. Having one health care expert coordinate all your health care helps keep your costs and health on track. Year after year, health plans help improve member health and lower their total cost of care because health issues are handled before they get serious. In most cases, your HMO health plan won't cover your costs if you go to a provider who isn’t in your network. Your health plan contracts with network providers who offer a service at a set price. Because out-of-network providers don't have a contract with us, we can't control how much they charge you. To avoid getting big bills, make sure you stay in your network. Be Informed No matter which type of plan you have, review it carefully. Know what's covered and where you can go for care before you need it. Understanding how your plan works may save you time and money.HMO InsuranceUsing Health InsuranceBlue Access for MembersProvider FinderBenefits and Coveragehttps://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tucobertura/posts/que-es-una-cobertura-hmoThu, 27 Aug 2026 19:58:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:ad66a476-7ea1-4135-8707-feecc86df488EquipoConnectUna cobertura HMO, o una cobertura médica con beneficios de una Organización para el Mantenimiento de la Salud, puede ayudar a mantener los costos más bajos y predecibles en comparación con otros tipos de coberturas. Además, es fácil de usar, ya que un solo médico coordina tu atención médica. Una cobertura HMO ofrece lo siguiente: primas mensuales, copagos y deducibles que, por lo general, son más bajos comparados con otros tipos de coberturas; acceso a ciertos médicos, hospitales, clínicas, farmacias, laboratorios y otros prestadores de servicios médicos de la red de cobertura HMO, para ayudarte a controlar cuánto pagas por la atención médica; un prestador de atención médica primaria (PCP, en inglés) al que acudes para hacerte exámenes físicos anuales, exámenes preventivos de detección, tratar enfermedades comunes o lesiones y otros cuidados médicos de rutina. Para que la mayoría de otros tipos de atención médica estén incluidos en tu cobertura, como consultar a un especialista, tienes que solicitar una orden médica o referido. Es personal Una cobertura HMO ofrece atención médica personalizada. Tu atención médica es coordinada por un médico que te conoce: sabe tu historial médico, tus problemas médicos actuales, los medicamentos que tomas, tu estilo de vida y cómo tu historial médico familiar puede afectar tu salud. Cómo comenzar Cuando solicitas una cobertura HMO por primera vez, ya sea, puedes elegir o se te puede asignar un PCP que forma parte de un grupo médico o de una Asociación de Médicos Independientes. Cada persona incluida en tu cobertura médica puede elegir un médico de atención primaria. Un PCP generalmente se enfoca en la medicina interna general, la medicina familiar o la obstetricia y la ginecología (ginecología-obstetricia). Los ancianos pueden elegir un médico de atención geriátrica. Los niños pueden contar con un pediatra. Si eres un asegurado, puedes encontrar tu médico de atención primaria o tu grupo médico en tu tarjeta de asegurado. También puedes iniciar sesión en tu cuenta de asegurado en línea para realizar una búsqueda personalizada de prestadores de servicios médicos según tu red y cobertura médica. Tu compañero en la salud Como el asegurado principal de tu equipo de atención médica, tu PCP juega un papel importante para ayudarte a mantenerte saludable. A continuación, te presentamos algunos consejos útiles para ayudarte a aprovechar los servicios de tu PCP al máximo: Si eres un nuevo paciente, consulta a tu médico de atención primaria de inmediato. Cuando programes tu primera cita, déjale saber al consultorio de tu médico que eres un nuevo paciente. Acudir de inmediato a tu cita para pacientes nuevos ayudará a evitar demoras en la obtención de una cita cuando estés enfermo o necesites una orden médica. Obtener una orden médica. Si necesitas consultar a un especialista, el PCP te referirá a uno de ellos. Asegúrate de que el especialista o el prestador de servicios de salud mental participe en la red de tu cobertura. Las mujeres no necesitan una orden médica para consultar a un ginecólogo-obstetra de la red. También necesitarás una orden médica para acudir a un hospital para recibir servicios que no sean de emergencia. Para encontrar un prestador de servicios médicos u hospital de la red, inicia sesión en tu cuenta y dirígete a Buscar atención médica . Llama a tu PCP cuando necesites atención médica. Tu médico de atención primaria debería ser la primera persona a quien debes acudir cuando necesites atención médica. Para enfermedades y lesiones comunes, como resfriados, gripe, cortaduras o quemaduras menores, te darán citas médicas convenientes u obtendrás una orden médica para acudir a otro médico o clínica. En algunos casos, es posible que tengas que acudir a una clínica de atención médica inmediata o a un hospital. En caso de emergencias. Si tu enfermedad o lesión pone tu vida en peligro, llama al 911 o acude a la sala de emergencias más cercana. No tienes que permanecer en la red ni obtener una orden médica. Tan pronto como puedas, solo déjale saber a tu PCP que has tenido una emergencia. Continuarán tus tratamientos y gestionarán tu atención médica de seguimiento. Tienes distintas opciones Es importante encontrar un prestador de servicios médicos con el que te sientas cómodo. Puedes cambiar tu PCP, tu grupo médico o tu consultorio médico a otro que forme parte de la red en cualquier momento. Las únicas excepciones son cuando estás hospitalizada o en el segundo o tercer trimestre del embarazo. Para cambiar de grupo médico a un grupo médico diferente: En línea Inicia sesión en tu cuenta. Elige el enlace "Change PCP" (cambiar PCP). Sigue las instrucciones. Por teléfono Llama al número de servicio al cliente en tu tarjeta de asegurado. Contar con un experto en atención médica que coordine toda tu atención médica ayuda a manejar los costos y la salud. Año tras año, las coberturas ayudan a mejorar la salud de los asegurados y a reducir el costo general de la atención médica porque los problemas de salud se gestionan antes de que se conviertan en problemas graves. En la mayoría de los casos, tu cobertura médica HMO no cubrirá ninguno de tus gastos si acudes a un prestador de servicios médicos que no participa en la red. Tenemos contratos con prestadores de servicios médicos de la red que ofrecen servicios a un precio fijo. Debido a que los prestadores de servicios médicos que no participan en la red no tienen contrato con nosotros, no podemos controlar cuánto te cobran. Para evitar recibir facturas grandes, asegúrate de permanecer en la red de tu cobertura. Infórmate Sin importar el tipo de cobertura que tengas, revísala cuidadosamente. Conoce qué beneficios y servicios están incluidos y a dónde puedes acudir para recibir atención médica antes de que la necesites. Puedes ahorrar tiempo y dinero cuando entiendes cómo funciona tu cobertura médica.EspañolProvider Finder EspañolTu CoberturaCómo funciona el seguro médicoBlue Access for Members EspañolHMOhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/healthy-brain-agingThu, 27 Aug 2026 17:46:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:3071aaf9-3bbd-45c8-936d-8c3bd98cfa25BCBSOK Connect TeamIt’s common to think that forgetfulness and other changes in our brain function are a part of getting older that we just have to accept. But studies show that there are simple steps you can take to help prevent cognitive decline and lower your risk of dementia. It’s never too soon to start taking steps to keep your brain healthy. But even if you’re already experiencing some changes, you can help prevent or slow the progress of cognitive decline. Keep Your Brain Healthy “The brain is malleable and changeable, and can improve throughout our lives,” neurosurgeon and health correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta told the American Academy of Neurology’s Brain & Life magazine . Dr. Gupta, who has written books about healthy aging and improving brain health, found that there are five main contributors to brain health that you can control: be more active, keep the brain stimulated, get enough quality sleep, eat a healthy diet, and build a strong social life. Some of the steps you can take for your brain health are the same as the ones you take to keep your whole body healthy: Be more active . Studies show that exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your brain health. Routine activity helps the brain by raising blood flow. That can slow a drop in mental function and lower the risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological problems. Get plenty of sleep . It boosts your total recall and brain health. It’s also critical if you’re feeling less alert than usual. Eat a healthy diet . What you eat plays a large role in your brain health. A Mediterranean diet, heavy on plant-based foods, whole grains, fish and healthy fats like olive oil is a good pick. Eating a diet low in red meat and salt appears to raise mental focus and slow mental decline in older adults. And staying mentally active is also an important way to protect your brain health. Make a game plan to help improve your cognitive fitness: Keep your mind active . Your brain is like a muscle that you need to use. There are lots of things that you can do to keep it in shape, like reading, word games, playing cards or putting together a jigsaw puzzle. Consider it cross-training for your brain. Doing different activities is the key. Connect with others . Find ways to connect with friends and family. Dr. Gupta says that enjoying life through socializing seems to help brain health. Communities that have the best brain health in the world are ones where people are socially active and have rich social ties. Keep learning new things. A job may help keep you mentally active. Taking up a new hobby, taking classes, learning a new skill or volunteering can also keep your mind sharp. And try things that need manual skill, like building something, drawing or other crafty pursuits. Use all your senses. The more senses you use in learning something, the stronger your memory of it will be. Believe in yourself. The negative things we believe about aging can contribute to a decline in memory and mental ability. People who feel they can’t do anything about it are less likely to work at maintaining or improving their memory skills and more likely to decline. Try believing you can improve and acting to make it happen. Prioritize your brain use. Save your mental energy for learning and remembering new and important things. Use smart phone reminders, calendars and shopping lists to keep routine information easy to find and remember. Always keep your keys, glasses and other frequently needed things in the same place to avoid having to try to remember where you put them every time. Reinforce what you want to know. Say it out loud or write it down. This can build up the memory or link. Repeat it. Repeat words as a learning tool. Try once an hour, then in a few hours, then each day. That can help improve memory and make it simpler to master complicated information. Talk to Your Doctor Having some mild forgetfulness or noticing a difference in your thinking doesn’t mean you have a serious problem. But if you’re experiencing changes in your memory or brain function that concern you, be sure to talk to your doctor. Signs that may be concerning include having trouble with simple math or paying bills, frequently getting lost, repeating things over and over, or losing things more often. Sources: 6 tips to keep your brain healthy , Mayo Clinic, 2022; 6 simple steps to keep your mind sharp at any age , Harvard Medical School, 2020; Dr. Sanjay Gupta Gives Advice on How to Improve Brain Health , American Academy of Neurology’s Brain & Health , 2021Health and WellnessHealthy MindExerciseHealthy AgingSleepNutritionhttps://connect.bcbsok.com/my-coverage-explained/b/weblog/posts/drug-list-updateThu, 27 Aug 2026 17:40:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:a5bb9c44-0d05-4b1d-a198-37ba2d4cd169BCBSOK Connect TeamMedicines play a major role in preventing and treating many health problems. That is why a prescription drug benefit is included in most health plans. Many Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Oklahoma plans have a prescription drug list (also known as a formulary), a regularly updated list of covered drugs available to you. Care and treatment decisions are between you and your doctor. However, doctors are encouraged to prescribe medicines that are on the drug list. This helps keep your out-of-pocket costs low. We encourage you to show the drug list to your doctor and pharmacist. Keep in mind that prescription drug benefits may differ by plan. Which Drug List Applies to Me? The prescription drug lists are specific to your benefit plan. You can always view the most updated prescription drug lists in the Prescription Drug section of our website. Access Pharmacy Benefits and Search for Drugs To learn more about your pharmacy benefits and search for specific drugs, you can log in to your account online or with the BCBSOK App . Your Online Member Account Log in to your online member account for easy online access to information about your health benefits, prescription coverage and more. From your dashboard, click Pharmacy in the top navigation. You can: Find in-network pharmacies. Share your member ID with your health care provider or pharmacy. Manage your prescriptions. Find cost estimates, lower-cost options, clinical review status updates and refill reminders. Get information about your medicines, such as drug interactions, potential side effects and any special requirements or limitations If you haven’t registered for your online account yet, register today with a few easy steps. Once you're registered, you can log in to your account. BCBSOK App The BCBSOK App lets you access your benefits information from anywhere. You can use your member account login information or create a new account to log in to the app. The BCBSOK App is available in English and Spanish for iPhone and Android users. Download it today. You May be Able to Save Money with Generic Drugs Prescription drugs may be a big part of your health care costs. You may be able to lower your out-of-pocket costs by choosing generic drugs. Find out if generic drugs are right for you .PrescriptionsDrug ListBenefits and Coveragehttps://connect.bcbsok.com/espanol/b/tusalud/posts/puedes-mantener-tu-cerebro-saludable-a-cualquier-edadThu, 27 Aug 2026 16:36:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:30bb012f-b102-4595-9db0-9bee287f66c9EquipoConnectEs común pensar que los olvidos y otros cambios en nuestro funcionamiento cerebral son parte del envejecimiento y simplemente tenemos que aceptarlos. Pero los estudios muestran que hay pasos simples que podemos seguir para ayudar a prevenir el deterioro cognitivo y reducir el riesgo de demencia. Nunca es demasiado pronto para comenzar a tomar medidas para mantener tu cerebro saludable. Pero si ya estás notando algunos cambios, puedes ayudar a prevenir o retrasar el progreso del deterioro cognitivo. Mantén tu cerebro saludable “El cerebro es maleable y cambiante, y puede mejorar a lo largo de nuestras vidas”, dijo el neurocirujano y corresponsal de salud Dr. Sanjay Gupta a la revista Brain & Life de la Academia Americana de Neurología. El Dr. Gupta, que ha escrito libros sobre el envejecimiento saludable y como mejorar la salud del cerebro, descubrió que hay cinco contribuyentes principales a la salud del cerebro que puedes controlar: ser más activo, mantener el cerebro estimulado, dormir lo suficiente, comer una dieta saludable, y construir una buena vida social. Algunas de las medidas que puedes tomar para la salud de tu cerebro son las mismas que tomas para mantener saludable todo tu cuerpo: Sér más activo. Los estudios demuestran que el ejercicio es una de las cosas más importantes que puedes hacer por la salud de tu cerebro. La actividad rutinaria ayuda al cerebro al aumentar el flujo sanguíneo. Eso puede retrasar una caída en la función mental y reducir el riesgo de contraer la enfermedad de Alzheimer y otros problemas neurológicos. Dormir lo suficiente. Esto aumenta tu memoria total y la salud del cerebro. También es fundamental si te sientes menos alerta de lo normal. Comer una dieta saludable. Lo que comes juega un papel importante en la salud de tu cerebro. Una dieta mediterránea, rica en alimentos de origen vegetal, cereales integrales, pescado y grasas saludables como el aceite de oliva, es una buena elección. Comer bajo en carne roja y sal, parece aumentar el enfoque mental y retrasar el deterioro mental en los adultos mayores. Y mantenerte mentalmente activo también es una forma importante de proteger la salud de su cerebro. Haz un plan para ayudar a mejorar tu condición cognitiva: Mantén tu mente activa. Tu cerebro es como un músculo que necesitas ejercitar. Hay muchas cosas que puedes hacer para mantenerlo en forma, como leer, jugar juegos de palabras, jugar a las cartas o armar un rompecabezas. Considéralo un entrenamiento para tu cerebro. Hacer diferentes actividades es clave. Conéctate con otros. Encuentra maneras de conectarte con amigos y familiares. El Dr. Gupta dice que disfrutar de la vida socializando parece ayudar la salud del cerebro. Las comunidades que tienen la mejor salud cerebral del mundo son aquellas en las que las personas son socialmente activas y tienen fuertes conexiones sociales. Sigue aprendiendo cosas nuevas. Un trabajo puede ayudarte a mantenerte mentalmente activo. Explorar un nuevo pasatiempo, tomar clases, aprender una nueva habilidad o ser voluntario también puede mantener tu mente alerta. Intenta cosas que requieran habilidad manual, como construir algo, dibujar u otras manualidades. Usa todos tus sentidos. Entre más sentidos uses para aprender algo, más fuerte será tu memoria. Cree en ti mismo. Las cosas negativas que creemos sobre el envejecimiento pueden contribuir a una disminución de la memoria y la capacidad mental. Las personas que sienten que no pueden hacer nada al respecto, tienen menos probabilidades de esforzarse por mantener o mejorar sus habilidades de memoria y es más probable que disminuyan. Intenta creer que puedes mejorar y toma acción para que esto suceda. Prioriza el uso de tu cerebro. Guarda tu energía mental para aprender y recordar cosas nuevas e importantes. Usa los recordatorios que ofrece tu teléfono celular, calendarios y listas de compras para mantener la información de rutina fácil de encontrar y recordar. Mantén siempre tus llaves, lentes y otras cosas que necesitas con frecuencia en el mismo lugar para evitar tener que tratar de recordar dónde las dejas cada vez. Refuerza lo que quieres saber. Dilo en voz alta o escríbelo. Esto puede mejorar la memoria. Repitelo. Repite palabras y úsalo como herramienta de aprendizaje. Inténtalo una vez cada hora, luego cada dos horas, luego cada día. Eso puede ayudar a mejorar la memoria y simplificar el dominio de información complicada. Habla con tu médico Tener algunos olvidos leves o notar una diferencia en tu forma de pensar no significa que tengas un problema grave. Pero si estás notando cambios en tu memoria o función cerebral que te preocupan, asegúrate de hablar con tu médico. Los signos que pueden ser preocupantes incluyen tener problemas con las matemáticas simples o pagar las cuentas, perderte con frecuencia, repetir cosas una y otra vez o perder cosas con más frecuencia. Fuentes: 6 tips to keep your brain healthy , Mayo Clinic, 2022; 6 simple steps to keep your mind sharp at any age , Harvard Medical School, 2020; Dr. Sanjay Gupta Gives Advice on How to Improve Brain Health , American Academy of Neurology’s Brain & Health , 2021Tu SaludDormirEspañolEjercicioEnvejecimiento SaludableNutriciónMente Saludablehttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/low-intensity-workoutThu, 27 Aug 2026 16:06:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:20c92d46-980f-4c0e-8dce-17092925b42fBCBSOK Connect TeamThere are benefits to stepping away from the “no pain, no gain” approach to exercise. Pushing hard isn’t always safe, and it isn’t necessary for health benefits. Low-intensity motion offers a good workout for most people, helping your heart and burning calories while being easier on the body. The chances of you keeping up a low-intensity routine are higher, since you won’t feel as tired as if you did high-intensity training, says the Cleveland Clinic . And less strain on your body means you can do it more often, even every day. What Is Low-Intensity Movement? Low intensity movement is low-impact exercise done at a more comfortable pace. Many people favor walking, but other low intensity activities include: Swimming Biking Dancing Rowing Resistance training Using elliptical machines Pilates Yoga Tai Chi Some kinds of low-intensity exercise, like tai chi and yoga, have also been shown to help improve mood and lower stress. That kind of movement helps the heart and may also lessen pain and tiredness. Low-intensity exercise is also low-impact. So it avoids stress on the joints while still having the benefits that come from deeper breathing and matching movements, says Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center . It may take longer to see results with low-intensity exercise compared to high-intensity. But it is also easier on your body and reduces the chances of getting hurt. Not all low-impact exercise is low-intensity, though. Low impact, high-intensity cardio exercise works the heart at a higher rate while still avoiding joint stress. Exercise that is both low-intensity and low impact further protects from injury. Sometimes athletes use low impact, low intensity activity to prepare for times of more intense movement in a way that reduces their risk for injury. What Does Low-Intensity Activity Do for You? Try low-intensity movement for: Better mood Better sleep Better balance and flexibility More energy Lower levels of fear and worry Lower fall risk Lower heart disease risk Healthier weight Lower cancer risk Less pain and swelling Make a Plan First look at your current fitness level and see if you need to add to your activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says adults need routine aerobic activity and muscle strengthening. Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise a week (more is better). You can break that up into smaller periods of activity throughout the week. Then find some low intensity activities that sound good to you. Most low intensity activities are safe for most people. If you have health issues or are new to exercising, talk to your doctor before starting a new workout. Sources: Ease It Up: Why You Should Consider LIIT Workouts , Cleveland Clinic, 2025; Low-intensity exercise , Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 2022; What Counts as Physical Activity for Adults , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023Health and WellnessWeight ManagementExerciseHealthy AgingHealthy Livinghttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/prevent-virusesThu, 27 Aug 2026 15:28:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:6cf63ed5-1cb2-444e-a631-aaded515de7aBCBSOK Connect TeamYour chances of catching a viral illness are higher at certain times of year: Back to school. When temperatures drop and people spend more time indoors. Before the fall and winter holidays. At the start of the new year. Now’s the time to find the best ways to protect you and your family from viruses like colds, flu, COVID-19 and RSV ( respiratory syncytial virus ). Viruses can cause varying degrees of illness, from minor to very severe. While many people’s bodies can fight off most viral illness, some are more vulnerable. Children and older adults can get very sick or even die from some viruses. That’s why it’s important for you and your family to have a plan. A virus spreads quickly if it is an airborne virus like COVID-19, RSV, cold or flu. That means it spreads when people who are sick with the virus don’t cover their face when they’re around others. The virus can be suspended in the air long enough to reach others, even if they aren’t standing close. Sometimes it can also be spread when the virus is on an infected person’s hands or something they have touched. There are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. Get Vaccinated Get your flu shot. Like colds, flu is contagious and is caused by a virus. Unlike colds, you can get a shot to help protect yourself and others from flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says most people who are six months or older should get a yearly flu shot . The flu can be spread before any symptoms appear. This is why others can give you the flu even before they know they have it. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for the shot to protect against flu virus infection. So get it as soon as possible. And it’s important to stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccines and boosters . The CDC says the shots are a safe, effective way to protect yourself from COVID-19. The vaccine is recommended for most people who are six months old or older. Avoid Germs Taking a few common steps can help ward off illness. Remember to: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When you don’t have soap and water handy, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. When you cough, cover both your mouth and nose with a tissue or your shirt. Show kids how to bend their arm in front of their face and cough into the crook of their elbow. After you use a tissue, throw it in the trash. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands when you're out in public. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home when you are sick. Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are touched a lot. That includes toys, door handles, faucets and TV remotes. Don’t share drinks or eating utensils when you're away from home. Each of these steps help reduce your risk of getting and spreading infectious diseases. But there’s no one way to prevent disease. That’s why it’s important to have many good habits for reducing your risk, says the Cleveland Clinic . It’s especially important for people at higher risk of infectious disease. They include: Those with compromised immune systems, like those receiving cancer treatments, living with HIV or taking certain medicines Young children Women who are pregnant Adults over 60 People who are not vaccinated against common infectious diseases Health care workers Getting sick isn’t fun for anyone, and it can be dangerous. But you can lower your risk significantly by actively protecting yourself and your family. Not Sure What You Have? If you have sniffles, sneezes, coughing or sore throat, it can be hard to tell if your symptoms are from allergies, a cold, flu or COVID-19. Get tips on how to tell the difference . Sources: Infectious Diseases , Cleveland Clinic, 2025; Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19 , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; About Influenza , CDC, 2026; COVID-19 Vaccines , CDC, 2025; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV) , CDCHealth and WellnessFluCOVID19Flu VaccineFlu PreventionGermshttps://connect.bcbsok.com/health-and-wellness/b/weblog/posts/memory-loss-when-to-seek-helpThu, 27 Aug 2026 14:51:00 GMT6e104328-2028-43b6-bb31-8401437dc51f:7d2d388b-7789-4088-b707-52565c5d22f5BCBSOK Connect TeamYou forget a new friend’s name. Forget a haircut date. Forget where you left your car keys. It happens. And it probably isn’t a sign of a serious health issue. But some types of memory loss may be a wake-up call to find out what’s going on with your health. Most adults have some form of memory loss as they age. Forgetfulness and brain fog are changes to discuss with your doctor. What’s Behind Your Memory Problem? Many things can cause memory problems that mimic dementia, but aren’t dementia and can be treated, says AARP . They include: Medication side effects or interactions Untreated infections, such as UTIs Sleep problems Dehydration Heart, lung, liver or kidney issues Hormone changes and thyroid problems Vitamin deficiencies Alcohol use disorders Some cancers Pain Stress/anxiety/depression Alzheimer’s and Dementia Normal aging changes are different than serious conditions like dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Dementia is a decline in thinking skills and memory. It can interfere with normal daily living. Some people with dementia may have trouble using language or recognizing people. There are different types of dementia. Alzheimer’s is just one form, but it makes up 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases. It’s caused by plaque in the brain. Vascular dementia, caused by brain damage from small strokes, is another type. Other forms of dementia can be caused by vitamin deficiencies and other health problems. Early-onset Alzheimer’s Most people develop Alzheimer’s in their later years — at age 65 or older. But some people can get it in their 30s, 40s or 50s. This is called early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. About 10 percent of Alzheimer’s cases are early-onset. It isn’t always clear what causes early-onset Alzheimer’s, but some cases are caused by genetic factors. In the remaining majority of cases, the cause is often a mix of genetics, environmental and lifestyle factors. For example, head injuries can contribute to Alzheimer’s. And there is a link between people with diabetes and memory loss. Symptoms and Diagnosis Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) can develop into Alzheimer’s. Some signs of MCI include: Unexplained loss of sense of smell Inability to complete familiar tasks Difficulty with problem solving and with following instructions Changes in personality or mood Some of the early signs of Alzheimer's include: Memory loss that disrupts your daily life Having trouble with simple math problems, paying bills or other familiar tasks at home or at work Getting lost in familiar areas Frequently losing items or putting them in odd places Confusion with time or place Trouble understanding images and spatial relations New problems with words when speaking or writing Poor judgment with decision making Withdrawal from work or social activities If you or those close to you have noticed these changes in you, talk to your doctor. Sometimes the people who know you best will see changes in your behavior first, says the Mayo Clinic . Talk to Your Doctor Whatever the cause of your memory issues, talk to your doctor. It may be something easily treatable. And if it is something more serious, it’s important to catch it early. Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can mean more treatment options are available. A checkup for memory issues covers several areas. Your doctor may: Take a complete medical history and ask about the use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs Ask you and your family questions about how you’re doing with everyday things like paying bills, shopping or driving Test your memory, problem-solving, language and counting skills Collect blood and urine and request other medical tests Order brain scans to rule out other possible causes Keep Your Brain Healthy at Any Age There are ways to keep your brain healthy and prevent or delay cognitive decline. And it’s never too soon to start. Learn the steps you can take to keep your brain healthy. Sources: Alzheimer’s and Dementia , Alzheimer’s Association; Alzheimer’s Disease , Mayo Clinic, 2026; When to seek help for memory loss , Mayo Clinic, 2022; 6 Medical Problems That Can Mimic Dementia — But Aren’t , AARP, 2025; Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2024; How Is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed? , National Institute on Aging, 2022; Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease , Mayo Clinic, 2026Health and WellnessDementiaAlzheimerMemory Loss