The bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcus) is a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia in the United States. However, pneumococcus also causes other serious infections including bacterial meningitis. CDC reports pneumococcus is responsible for 13 to 19 percent of bacterial meningitis cases in the United States. The disease occurs in both children and adults. Two pneumococcal vaccines are licensed for use in the United States. Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) is recommended for adults age 65 and older and for children age two and older with a chronic medical condition. CDC recommends pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) for all children younger than age two and for children age two to five with a medical condition that puts them at risk for serious pneumococcal infection. Conditions that increase risk for serious pneumococcal infection include HIV disease, sickle cell disease, the presence of a cochlear implant, removal of the spleen, and any condition that weakens the immune system.

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Patients with sickle cell anemia require high-calorie protein-rich meals and snacks to deal with excess fatigue caused by oxygen-starved cells, according to NutritionMD. Ongoing fatigue should be closely monitored because it can trigger a sickle cell crisis --- a painful episode that occurs when sickle cells block normal blood flow in body organs.READ MORE>>>>>

SCDFOC has partnered with IEWG to bring healthy nutritional meals and recipes to those with SCD to live a healthier and more quality lifestyle. With the partnership with IEWG, the SCDFOC has created "CHEFS CORNER". We will bring specialized healthy recipes for those with SCD.

Reversing Sickle Cell Anemia by Turning On Fetal Hemoglobin

New research shows it's possible to reactivate production of fetal hemoglobin production in adult mice and effectively reverse sickle cell disease. READ MORE>>>