May 2016 - St Mark James Training

Influenza B: Flu Symptoms, First Aid Care, and Prevention in Canada

Influenza—commonly called the flu—is caused by several related viruses that change over time. There are three main types of influenza viruses: A, B, and C. Of these, influenza A and B are responsible for Canada’s seasonal flu outbreaks, while influenza C typically causes only mild illness and does not lead to widespread outbreaks. Although influenza […]

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Stomach Flu (Viral Gastroenteritis): Recovery, Contagious Period, and Safety in Canada

The stomach flu, medically referred to as viral gastroenteritis, can make anyone feel extremely unwell. Frequent vomiting and diarrhea, often combined with fever, nausea, and weakness, can quickly disrupt daily life and make even simple activities feel overwhelming. From a first aid, workplace safety, and public health perspective, understanding how long to stay home, how

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Norovirus: How It Spreads, Prevention, and First Aid Awareness in Canada

Norovirus is one of the most common causes of stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis) in Canada. It spreads extremely easily, which is why many people experience sudden outbreaks in schools, workplaces, childcare centres, long-term care facilities, and restaurants. Most Canadians will encounter norovirus at least once in their lifetime. From a first aid, workplace safety,

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Chikungunya: Symptoms, Recovery, and First Aid Awareness for Canadians

Chikungunya is a viral illness caused by an alphavirus and spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms typically appear 3–7 days after a bite, but may develop anywhere from 1–12 days later. Unlike some other mosquito-borne viruses, most people infected with chikungunya do develop symptoms. From a first aid, travel health, and workplace safety

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Eye Twitching (Eyelid Myokymia): Causes, Triggers, and When to Get Help

Eye twitching often starts suddenly and without warning, which can make it unsettling—especially in the workplace or during daily activities. While eye twitching is rarely serious, understanding why it happens and when it needs medical attention is important for personal health awareness and first aid education. This article is intended for general educational purposes only.

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Exercise-Related Edema: Swollen Hands, Feet, and Legs Explained

Swelling of the hands, feet, or lower legs—known as edema—is a common and usually harmless occurrence during or shortly after exercise. It is especially noticeable during warm weather, pregnancy, or after eating salty foods, all of which promote fluid retention. From a first aid and public safety perspective, it’s important to understand when exercise-related swelling

Peripheral Edema: Swollen Legs and Ankles Explained

Peripheral edema most commonly affects the legs, ankles, and feet and appears as visible swelling caused by fluid collecting in the tissues. Edema occurs when small blood vessels leak fluid into surrounding connective tissue, such as skin, cartilage, or the spaces between cells. From a first aid, CPR, and workplace safety perspective, recognizing peripheral edema

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Swollen Uvula: Causes, Symptoms, and First Aid Awareness

A swollen uvula—the small, bell-shaped structure that hangs from the back of the soft palate—can be uncomfortable and, in some situations, dangerous. While its exact role isn’t fully understood, the uvula contributes to speech, saliva production, and airflow during breathing and snoring. From a first aid and emergency response perspective, swelling in the throat always

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Canker Sores: What They Are, How to Relieve Pain, and When to Seek Care

A canker sore (also called an aphthous ulcer) is a small, painful mouth ulcer that usually heals on its own within 7–10 days. While not dangerous, canker sores can make eating, drinking, and speaking uncomfortable, especially for children. From a first aid and public health education perspective, it’s helpful to know how to reduce discomfort

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Contact Lens Infections: First Aid Awareness and Prevention

Contact lens infections are a common issue among people who wear contact lenses. These infections may be bacterial, viral, or fungal, and while some are mild, others can threaten vision if not treated promptly. From a first aid and public safety perspective, early recognition and proper response are essential—especially in workplaces, schools, and public

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