Rural Health Matters: How Winter Weather Threatens Drug Safety in Rural Communities

University of Nebraska President Dr. Jeffrey Gold joined us with important insights on drug safety and rural health during the winter months.

LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD NEWS) — As winter conditions continue across much of the country, drug safety is taking on added importance for rural families, especially as weather, travel challenges, and seasonal illnesses complicate daily routines.

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined us on Friday’s edition of Rural Health Matters to discuss what drug safety means and why it is especially critical during the winter months.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, Dr. Gold explained the importance of using medications properly, safely storing prescriptions, and being mindful of interactions—particularly when cold, flu, and other seasonal health concerns are more common.

He also highlighted how winter weather can make drug safety more challenging, from delayed access to pharmacies and healthcare providers to the risks of improper storage at extreme temperatures.

Dr. Gold also shared important reminders for viewers on staying informed and proactive about their health during the winter season.

Related Stories
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation shares how teens are helping fuel stronger demand for traditional U.S. dairy products.
For dairy producers, that could help support fluid milk use in cafeterias, breakfast programs, and other child nutrition settings.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold discusses the recent hantavirus outbreak linked to a South American cruise ship and Nebraska’s monitoring efforts on this week’s Rural Health Matters.
Practical changes to retailer stocking standards promote more options all while reducing fraud and abuse in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss the early warning signs of arthritis, the challenges facing rural populations, and steps individuals can take to manage joint health.
The goal is to start conversations and connect farmers with help when they need it.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Farmers are in the midst of harvest as the government descends into a shutdown and the Farm Bill expires. Key federal departments, crop reporting, and aid programs important to the agricultural sector are now on hold.
Trump’s upcoming talks raise hopes for U.S. soybeans, but China’s record purchases from Brazil and Argentina show America’s market share remains under heavy pressure.
Students share their experiences overcoming anxiety through opportunities provided by the National FFA Organization.
Bigger-than-expected corn and wheat stocks are bearish for prices, while soybean figures were neutral. Farmers may face additional price pressure as harvest accelerates.
As flu season closes in, Dr. Gold outlines the steps to take when you get sick — including resting, staying hydrated, and knowing when to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
Jeramy Stephens, with National Land Realty, says that despite today’s economic headwinds, farmland remains a resilient asset — and understanding local conditions is key to making sound decisions.