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Smart Celebrations: How to Stretch Your Holiday Budget Without Sacrificing Joy

  The holiday season often brings cheer, but it can also strain wallets. With rising costs and endless temptations, keeping spending under control requires a thoughtful approach. Here are some practical strategies to help you celebrate without financial stress: Set a clear budget : Decide how much you can afford before shopping, and stick to it. Prioritize experiences over things : Shared activities like baking, movie nights, or volunteering can be more memorable than expensive gifts. Shop smart : Compare prices online, take advantage of seasonal sales, and avoid last-minute splurges. Give creatively : Handmade gifts, personalized notes, or “time vouchers” (like babysitting or cooking a meal) often mean more than store-bought items. Limit impulse buys : Make a list before hitting the stores—or browsing online—and resist adding extras. Plan ahead for next year : Start a small savings fund in January to ease the burden when the holidays roll around again. By focusing on tho...

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Rising Norovirus Cases: What You Need to Know About the 'Winter Vomiting Bug

 

Norovirus, often referred to as the "winter vomiting bug," is causing concern as cases surge across North America. This highly contagious virus is responsible for a significant number of gastroenteritis outbreaks, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever.

Recent reports indicate that norovirus cases have spiked above the five-year average in several regions, including Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. Health officials attribute this rise to the colder weather and a return to pre-pandemic social behaviors, which have disrupted previous patterns of virus transmission.

To protect yourself and others, it's crucial to practice good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom and before eating. Avoid close contact with those who are sick, and clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces regularly.

Remember, while norovirus can be unpleasant, it is usually short-lived, with most people recovering within a couple of days. Stay vigilant and take preventive measures to help curb the spread of this nasty bug.



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