Q: The biggest risk of a Zika infection is not the infection, it is the potential complications that can develop as a result of the infection. Although complications only develop in a small minority of people, they can be severe. The two main complications that are suspected to be linked to the Zika virus are: Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), which is a neurological condition that can lead to potential paralysis. Microcephaly, which is a birth defect that develops when women who are pregnant become infected with Zika. Infants born with microcephaly have an abnormally small head and may have developmental delays as well. Some infants may even die as a result of this birth defect. GBS has been linked as a potential complication of the Zika virus, but there is not yet a proven link between the two. Still, it is important to know the signs and symptoms of GBS if you have Zika. GBS is an autoimmune disorder that may occur following a viral infection such as Zika. It affects your nervous system by damaging the nerve coverings. Symptoms include: Numbness in the lower extremities such as the feet, lower legs, and hands Difficulty moving Numbness and/or paralysis that gradually moves upwards Difficult breathing if the paralysis moves to the chest area Microcephaly in newborns has also been linked to the Zika infection in pregnant women (who then pass it on to their fetus in the womb). Microcephaly refers to an abnormally small head. This condition can lead to developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and, in severe cases, it may even lead to death. When your baby is born, the doctors will take routine measurements of head circumference (both at birth, as well as at progressive intervals throughout your baby's growth). It is through abnormally small head circumference measurements that a doctor may diagnose your baby with microcephaly. Microcephaly is defined as a head circumference of less than 42cm at full growth. Doctors can use age-based growth charts to determine whether your baby's head circumference fits into the normal range at each developmental stage. If your baby is diagnosed microcephaly, it may be a sign that you have recently been infected with the Zika virus. However, GBS is treatable, so see a doctor as soon as possible if you think you have GBS. Microcephaly cannot be treated, but there are support strategies that may help your child reach as many developmental milestones as possible.
A: Be aware of potential complications of Zika. Recognize symptoms of GBS. Watch for signs of microcephaly in newborns. Keep in mind that there is no cure or vaccine for Zika.

Q: Make sure the scissors or garden shears are very sharp, as dull shears can damage the plants. If you notice any dirt on the shears, soak them in water with a teaspoon of bleach and then wipe them dry. A clean tool will ensure your plants are not exposed to bacteria or pests when you prune them. You can find garden shears for pruning online or at your local hardware store. If you are worried about scratching your hands while you prune, wear gardening gloves. If you have houseplants that do not flower, prune them in late winter. For houseplants with flowers or blooms, wait until they have bloomed before you prune them. Do not prune houseplants when unopened buds are present on the stems. Look for any leaves or limbs on the plant that are brown or discolored. They may also appear limp or dry. Use the shears to cut them off just below the brown or dead area at a 45 degree angle. This will ensure you leave as much of the healthy foliage on the plant as possible. Do not cut off any leaves or limbs that still appear green and vibrant. If a large section of the leafy area appears dead, you can cut off the entire branch. Leave the main stem intact and remove branches shooting off of the stem at a 45 degree angle. If you have houseplants that are flowering, make sure you check them over for any dead flowers and remove them. The flowers may appear brown, discolored, and limp. They may also feel dry to the touch. Cut the dead flowers off with the shears at the base of the flower's head. Removing dead and dying flowers on the plant will encourage the growth of newer, more vibrant blooms.
A: Use sharp scissors or garden shears. Prune the plants at the beginning of their growing season. Remove dead leaves and limbs at a 45 degree angle. Trim off any dead flowers.

Q: The best way to keep your piercing from becoming infected is to build up your own immune system. A basic healthy lifestyle is the best offense to prevent an infection. Eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep while your piercing is healing. This will help your body fight off potential infections. Do not remove your piercing prematurely. This can cause an infection. Leave the piercing in place for the first six months before changing out your jewelry. In the event you notice an infection, do not remove the jewelry on your own. While this may seem like it makes sense, it can make an infection worse. First, call your doctor to get treated for the possible infection. If it's necessary to remove the piercing, contact your piercer and have them do so. Do not go swimming in a pool or lake while the piercing is healing. Bodies of water contain a lot of bacteria. Your piercing will be extra susceptible to bacteria while it's healing. Nicotine and alcohol lower your immune system. This lessens your body's natural ability to fight infections. While your piercing is healing, limit your use of alcohol and nicotine products.
A: Practice basic self care. Leave the jewelry in place for the first six months. Stay away from swimming pools. Avoid nicotine and alcohol.

Q: You'll be making a simple clay, much like Play-Doh. You'll need: 6 cups of flour 2 cups of water 4 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil 2 Cups of Salt An old plastic water bottle, cut in half. Food Coloring (optional) You want it to be wet enough to work with, but not so dry that it crumbles or falls apart. You can always add a touch more water if need be, but not too much.
A:
Round up the ingredients for the volcano from the kitchen. Let the dough dry for 1-2 hours before shaping.