Q: How can I check whether I am registered to vote?
Social and Racial Justice
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: How can I check whether I am registered to vote? A: Visit the U.S. Election Assistance Commission website. It can feel like there are a zillion websites with voter registration information, the rules are different in every state, and the information overwhelm can be well…overwhelming! Don’t worry, we got you. An easy way to Read more…
Can you detox your body with supplements or oils?
Health & Wellness Hot Health Topics
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
The available data supports that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
What are the benefits of mindfulness, and how could I fit it into my busy schedule?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Mindfulness may offer mental and physical health benefits, and it’s possible to fit mindfulness techniques into a busy schedule in just a few minutes each day. 🔸 What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to how we feel, what we’re doing, and where we are in the present moment. Mindfulness has been Read more…
What should I know before stocking up on hand sanitizer?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandy Laping
Hand sanitizers are a great way to maintain hand hygiene when you’re on the go and don’t have access to hand-washing facilities, but they don’t eliminate all germs. Hand sanitizers are a quick and easy way to help prevent you from getting sick or spreading germs to others — but they don’t eliminate them all. Read more…
Can Castor Oil Help You Feel Better?
Health & Wellness
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Q: How can I check whether I am registered to vote? A: Visit the U.S. Election Assistance Commission website. It can feel like there are a zillion websites with voter registration information, the rules are different in every state, and the information overwhelm can be well…overwhelming! Don’t worry, we got you. An easy way to Read more…
Can you detox your body with supplements or oils?
Health & Wellness Hot Health TopicsRebecca Raskin-Wish
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
The available data supports that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
What are the benefits of mindfulness, and how could I fit it into my busy schedule?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Mindfulness may offer mental and physical health benefits, and it’s possible to fit mindfulness techniques into a busy schedule in just a few minutes each day. 🔸 What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to how we feel, what we’re doing, and where we are in the present moment. Mindfulness has been Read more…
What should I know before stocking up on hand sanitizer?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandy Laping
Hand sanitizers are a great way to maintain hand hygiene when you’re on the go and don’t have access to hand-washing facilities, but they don’t eliminate all germs. Hand sanitizers are a quick and easy way to help prevent you from getting sick or spreading germs to others — but they don’t eliminate them all. Read more…
Can Castor Oil Help You Feel Better?
Health & Wellness
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
No, unfortunately not. Supplements and oils sold as ‘detoxifying’ aren’t doing much for you, but the good news is, your body has many mechanisms to help it detox itself! You can support your body’s detox systems with lifestyle choices (like eating leafy greens and exercising). How exactly does your body detox? We’ve all wondered about Read more…
The available data supports that the COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
What are the benefits of mindfulness, and how could I fit it into my busy schedule?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Mindfulness may offer mental and physical health benefits, and it’s possible to fit mindfulness techniques into a busy schedule in just a few minutes each day. 🔸 What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to how we feel, what we’re doing, and where we are in the present moment. Mindfulness has been Read more…
What should I know before stocking up on hand sanitizer?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandy Laping
Hand sanitizers are a great way to maintain hand hygiene when you’re on the go and don’t have access to hand-washing facilities, but they don’t eliminate all germs. Hand sanitizers are a quick and easy way to help prevent you from getting sick or spreading germs to others — but they don’t eliminate them all. Read more…
Can Castor Oil Help You Feel Better?
Health & Wellness
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Q: I was sent the bulletin from the Florida Health Department regarding 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines. It contains a lot of confusing and concerning pieces of information. Can you help me understand it? A: The Florida Department of Health’s bulletin contains a lot of misleading and inaccurate statements. They fail to mention the risks of infection Read more…
What’s new with bird flu?
Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
What are the benefits of mindfulness, and how could I fit it into my busy schedule?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Mindfulness may offer mental and physical health benefits, and it’s possible to fit mindfulness techniques into a busy schedule in just a few minutes each day. 🔸 What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to how we feel, what we’re doing, and where we are in the present moment. Mindfulness has been Read more…
What should I know before stocking up on hand sanitizer?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandy Laping
Hand sanitizers are a great way to maintain hand hygiene when you’re on the go and don’t have access to hand-washing facilities, but they don’t eliminate all germs. Hand sanitizers are a quick and easy way to help prevent you from getting sick or spreading germs to others — but they don’t eliminate them all. Read more…
Can Castor Oil Help You Feel Better?
Health & Wellness
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
This information is up to date as of September 16th, 2024 at 2 pm EDT. Pandemic potential remains low despite 14 cases* of H5N1 in humans for 2024, but the situation is still evolving. Cattle infected with H5N1 now spread across 14 states, with 4 human cases from cows, 10 cases from poultry (9 in Read more…
What are the benefits of mindfulness, and how could I fit it into my busy schedule?
Health & Wellness Mental HealthIlana Gerjuoy, MPH
Mindfulness may offer mental and physical health benefits, and it’s possible to fit mindfulness techniques into a busy schedule in just a few minutes each day. 🔸 What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to how we feel, what we’re doing, and where we are in the present moment. Mindfulness has been Read more…
What should I know before stocking up on hand sanitizer?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandy Laping
Hand sanitizers are a great way to maintain hand hygiene when you’re on the go and don’t have access to hand-washing facilities, but they don’t eliminate all germs. Hand sanitizers are a quick and easy way to help prevent you from getting sick or spreading germs to others — but they don’t eliminate them all. Read more…
Can Castor Oil Help You Feel Better?
Health & Wellness
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Mindfulness may offer mental and physical health benefits, and it’s possible to fit mindfulness techniques into a busy schedule in just a few minutes each day. 🔸 What is mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to how we feel, what we’re doing, and where we are in the present moment. Mindfulness has been Read more…
What should I know before stocking up on hand sanitizer?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeSandy Laping
Hand sanitizers are a great way to maintain hand hygiene when you’re on the go and don’t have access to hand-washing facilities, but they don’t eliminate all germs. Hand sanitizers are a quick and easy way to help prevent you from getting sick or spreading germs to others — but they don’t eliminate them all. Read more…
Can Castor Oil Help You Feel Better?
Health & Wellness
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Hand sanitizers are a great way to maintain hand hygiene when you’re on the go and don’t have access to hand-washing facilities, but they don’t eliminate all germs. Hand sanitizers are a quick and easy way to help prevent you from getting sick or spreading germs to others — but they don’t eliminate them all. Read more…
Can Castor Oil Help You Feel Better?
Health & WellnessRebecca Raskin-Wish
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Though castor oil can be used as a laxative and as a moisturizer, most of the other claims made about the oil are not backed by scientific evidence. You might have seen TikTok or Instagram influencers talking about all the ways you can use castor oil. The videos about castor oil have made a lot Read more…
Is it a cold or COVID? 3 good reasons to test.
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
There are still lots of practical reasons to test for COVID if you have any symptoms or an exposure. Knowledge is power! There is STILL lots of COVID around. While the bad summer surge may have peaked, back-to-school means lots of new opportunities for transmission that may slow the decline in cases. You may find yourself Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 09/06/24 – Fall COVID Vaccine Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about updated COVID vaccines this fall. Why? Who? What? When? Where? Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD: TNG Editor in Chief and Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science Always seek the advice of your health care provider Read more…
What can I do to help prevent suicide?
Mental HealthMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Content Warning: This post discusses the prevention of death from suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that there is help available. People can call, text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat in the U.S. For TTY (teletypewriter) Users: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988. Línea de Prevención Read more…
Q: Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & Wellness
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Influenza is actually a serious Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
Biology/Immunity Health & WellnessDaphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a fairly Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer?
Health & Wellness Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
I’ve been feeling down even though it is bright and sunny out. Can I be depressed in the summer? Yes, you can be depressed in the summer. Some people actually feel depressed every summer, and they may have summer seasonal affective disorder (SAD). 😥 But WHAT is summer SAD and why does it happen? People Read more…
Updated COVID vaccines are approved and on the way!
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
The US FDA gave the official thumbs up to the 2024-2025 updated COVID vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna that target the KP.2 variant of SARS-CoV-2 last week. *NOVAVAX UPDATE*: The updated Novavax vaccine was approved this week for ages 12 and up and expected to be available within a week! 🎉 The US FDA gave Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Soon!
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingGretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Clara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
The Biden Administration has announced that free COVID-19 tests will once again be available starting in late September. Once available, you will be able to order your free tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov. According to the Dept. of Health & Human Services website, “The COVID-19 Tests will detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through Read more…
Does my response to vaccines change as I get older?
Aging Infectious Diseases VaccinesClara Ke, BSN, RN
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Although our immune response to vaccines decreases with age, vaccines remain crucial for reducing infection severity and risk in older adults. Adjusting vaccine components or administration can help offset this change. TL;DR Our immune systems naturally get weaker with age, making it harder to fight off infections. Numerous accepted vaccination adjustments can compensate for these age-related Read more…
Why did the World Health Organization declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern?
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data Literacy
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
There has been a concerning number of mpox cases in Africa due to a new mutation. The virus has a high fatality rate in Africa, and it is crucial that they receive access to resources to help manage and contain the outbreak to save lives in Africa and to prevent it from impacting more countries. Read more…
Q: Can I search for questions already answered by Those Nerdy Girls?
Data LiteracyAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & Wellness
Brianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
A: YES! You can search our past posts on our website at thosenerdygirls.org (by keyword, phrase, and topic)! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered 1000s of questions and almost all of our past posts are searchable at thosenerdygirls.org! For example, we have written *104* posts on ‘Reproductive Health’, *188* on “Uncertainty and Misinformation’, Read more…
Can the power of positivity support my brain health?
Aging Health & WellnessBrianna Morgan, PhD, CRNP, ACHPN®
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID Treatments
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
YES! Living life with meaning, setting realistic goals, and maintaining your social network can improve your brain health. Brain health includes things you can do to maximize how your brain works. Cognition is one of your brain’s main jobs. Cognition is your ability to think, learn, and remember. As we age, cognition changes and brain diseases Read more…
Does metformin treat COVID-19 and help prevent long COVID?
Infectious Diseases Long COVID TreatmentsElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
Some data suggest that metformin may help treat infection and reduce long COVID risk. But so far these data are not conclusive and we need further studies before metformin would be recommended for treating COVID. Metformin is an FDA approved drug with a good safety history. It is most often used to help lower blood sugar in Read more…
