Diane Umansky

What to wear—and other expert tips—to protect yourself during winter's deep freeze Updated January 31, 2023 Photo: iStock The plunging temperatures of a cold snap can be more than uncomfortable. Arctic air can also be hazardous to your health, especially when it’s accompanied by fast, chilly wind. "People often underestimate the risk," says Randy Wexler, M.D., M.P.H., associate professor of family medicine and vice chair of clinical services at the Ohio State University in Columbus.

On-the-spot identification of infectious illnesses like strep throat is increasingly common. Here’s what you should know.

Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with advertisers on this site. You wake up one morning to find that your throat feels like it’s on fire and swallowing is excruciating. Forty years ago, your doctor might have strongly suspected strep throat, but she would have had to send your tonsil swab off to a lab. And you would have had to wait several days for those results.