Nerdy Girls Live 5/23/20
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Surface transmission, evaluating risk levels for activities, flying vs. driving, seeing grandchildren, vaccines, misinformation and much more are discussed by Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH, Dr. Lindsey Leininger, PhD, Amanda M. Simanek, PhD, MPH, and Alison Buttenheim, PhD, MBA. Link to original FB post
Happy Memorial Day Weekend, everyone!
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
With the unofficial start of summer, and as states begin to re-open, this is just a follow-up on our previous post to help you assess which activities are low, medium, and high risk for transmission this weekend and beyond. These are a couple of graphics to help you visualize the spectrum of risk. Hang on your Read more…
Our neighborhood pool plans to reopen in a couple of weeks when our state eases lockdowns. Is the pool a risky place for COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: You’re unlikely to get COVID-19 *from* the pool, but you could certainly be exposed *at* the pool. To clarify: Pool water is heavily chlorinated, and COVID-19 is not waterborne in any case. So, being immersed in the pool or otherwise exposed to pool water is not risky in and of itself. The problem, of Read more…
What else do I need to know about my risks as my state reopens?
Reopening Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The nerdy girls have answered several questions about this topic recently, but we love another amazing smart lady’s interpretation (#DrLeanaWen), detailed here with a few more pearls. 1-Relative risk: For COVID-19, this is determined by type of activity, duration of activity, and how close you are to other people (see our previous posts). The Read more…
When can we reunite the grandparents and grandchildren?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Slowly and safely, with a mutually agreed upon timeline and ground rules. Important efforts to protect grandparents, a higher risk group for Covid-19 complications, conflict with strong desires for intergenerational connections between grandparents and grandchildren. This is really hard on everyone! As shelter-in-place orders lift, here are some things to consider when making plans Read more…
What’s brought you hope this week?
Reopening Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Food trucks! Pittsburgh Magazine’s recent article showcases scrappy food truck owners working hard to re-open *safely.* It’s a joy to see the amazing work ethic and bright minds of these small business owners innovating evidence-based ways forward. What’s in their secret sauce? (Please pardon the pun). Three key themes: (1) METRICS: The food truck Read more…
Can people get re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
Surface transmission, evaluating risk levels for activities, flying vs. driving, seeing grandchildren, vaccines, misinformation and much more are discussed by Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH, Dr. Lindsey Leininger, PhD, Amanda M. Simanek, PhD, MPH, and Alison Buttenheim, PhD, MBA. Link to original FB post
Happy Memorial Day Weekend, everyone!
Families/Kids Socializing Staying SafeSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
With the unofficial start of summer, and as states begin to re-open, this is just a follow-up on our previous post to help you assess which activities are low, medium, and high risk for transmission this weekend and beyond. These are a couple of graphics to help you visualize the spectrum of risk. Hang on your Read more…
Our neighborhood pool plans to reopen in a couple of weeks when our state eases lockdowns. Is the pool a risky place for COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: You’re unlikely to get COVID-19 *from* the pool, but you could certainly be exposed *at* the pool. To clarify: Pool water is heavily chlorinated, and COVID-19 is not waterborne in any case. So, being immersed in the pool or otherwise exposed to pool water is not risky in and of itself. The problem, of Read more…
What else do I need to know about my risks as my state reopens?
Reopening Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The nerdy girls have answered several questions about this topic recently, but we love another amazing smart lady’s interpretation (#DrLeanaWen), detailed here with a few more pearls. 1-Relative risk: For COVID-19, this is determined by type of activity, duration of activity, and how close you are to other people (see our previous posts). The Read more…
When can we reunite the grandparents and grandchildren?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Slowly and safely, with a mutually agreed upon timeline and ground rules. Important efforts to protect grandparents, a higher risk group for Covid-19 complications, conflict with strong desires for intergenerational connections between grandparents and grandchildren. This is really hard on everyone! As shelter-in-place orders lift, here are some things to consider when making plans Read more…
What’s brought you hope this week?
Reopening Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Food trucks! Pittsburgh Magazine’s recent article showcases scrappy food truck owners working hard to re-open *safely.* It’s a joy to see the amazing work ethic and bright minds of these small business owners innovating evidence-based ways forward. What’s in their secret sauce? (Please pardon the pun). Three key themes: (1) METRICS: The food truck Read more…
Can people get re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
With the unofficial start of summer, and as states begin to re-open, this is just a follow-up on our previous post to help you assess which activities are low, medium, and high risk for transmission this weekend and beyond. These are a couple of graphics to help you visualize the spectrum of risk. Hang on your Read more…
Our neighborhood pool plans to reopen in a couple of weeks when our state eases lockdowns. Is the pool a risky place for COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening Staying SafeAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: You’re unlikely to get COVID-19 *from* the pool, but you could certainly be exposed *at* the pool. To clarify: Pool water is heavily chlorinated, and COVID-19 is not waterborne in any case. So, being immersed in the pool or otherwise exposed to pool water is not risky in and of itself. The problem, of Read more…
What else do I need to know about my risks as my state reopens?
Reopening Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The nerdy girls have answered several questions about this topic recently, but we love another amazing smart lady’s interpretation (#DrLeanaWen), detailed here with a few more pearls. 1-Relative risk: For COVID-19, this is determined by type of activity, duration of activity, and how close you are to other people (see our previous posts). The Read more…
When can we reunite the grandparents and grandchildren?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Slowly and safely, with a mutually agreed upon timeline and ground rules. Important efforts to protect grandparents, a higher risk group for Covid-19 complications, conflict with strong desires for intergenerational connections between grandparents and grandchildren. This is really hard on everyone! As shelter-in-place orders lift, here are some things to consider when making plans Read more…
What’s brought you hope this week?
Reopening Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Food trucks! Pittsburgh Magazine’s recent article showcases scrappy food truck owners working hard to re-open *safely.* It’s a joy to see the amazing work ethic and bright minds of these small business owners innovating evidence-based ways forward. What’s in their secret sauce? (Please pardon the pun). Three key themes: (1) METRICS: The food truck Read more…
Can people get re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: You’re unlikely to get COVID-19 *from* the pool, but you could certainly be exposed *at* the pool. To clarify: Pool water is heavily chlorinated, and COVID-19 is not waterborne in any case. So, being immersed in the pool or otherwise exposed to pool water is not risky in and of itself. The problem, of Read more…
What else do I need to know about my risks as my state reopens?
Reopening Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The nerdy girls have answered several questions about this topic recently, but we love another amazing smart lady’s interpretation (#DrLeanaWen), detailed here with a few more pearls. 1-Relative risk: For COVID-19, this is determined by type of activity, duration of activity, and how close you are to other people (see our previous posts). The Read more…
When can we reunite the grandparents and grandchildren?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Slowly and safely, with a mutually agreed upon timeline and ground rules. Important efforts to protect grandparents, a higher risk group for Covid-19 complications, conflict with strong desires for intergenerational connections between grandparents and grandchildren. This is really hard on everyone! As shelter-in-place orders lift, here are some things to consider when making plans Read more…
What’s brought you hope this week?
Reopening Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Food trucks! Pittsburgh Magazine’s recent article showcases scrappy food truck owners working hard to re-open *safely.* It’s a joy to see the amazing work ethic and bright minds of these small business owners innovating evidence-based ways forward. What’s in their secret sauce? (Please pardon the pun). Three key themes: (1) METRICS: The food truck Read more…
Can people get re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: The nerdy girls have answered several questions about this topic recently, but we love another amazing smart lady’s interpretation (#DrLeanaWen), detailed here with a few more pearls. 1-Relative risk: For COVID-19, this is determined by type of activity, duration of activity, and how close you are to other people (see our previous posts). The Read more…
When can we reunite the grandparents and grandchildren?
Families/Kids Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Slowly and safely, with a mutually agreed upon timeline and ground rules. Important efforts to protect grandparents, a higher risk group for Covid-19 complications, conflict with strong desires for intergenerational connections between grandparents and grandchildren. This is really hard on everyone! As shelter-in-place orders lift, here are some things to consider when making plans Read more…
What’s brought you hope this week?
Reopening Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Food trucks! Pittsburgh Magazine’s recent article showcases scrappy food truck owners working hard to re-open *safely.* It’s a joy to see the amazing work ethic and bright minds of these small business owners innovating evidence-based ways forward. What’s in their secret sauce? (Please pardon the pun). Three key themes: (1) METRICS: The food truck Read more…
Can people get re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Slowly and safely, with a mutually agreed upon timeline and ground rules. Important efforts to protect grandparents, a higher risk group for Covid-19 complications, conflict with strong desires for intergenerational connections between grandparents and grandchildren. This is really hard on everyone! As shelter-in-place orders lift, here are some things to consider when making plans Read more…
What’s brought you hope this week?
Reopening Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Food trucks! Pittsburgh Magazine’s recent article showcases scrappy food truck owners working hard to re-open *safely.* It’s a joy to see the amazing work ethic and bright minds of these small business owners innovating evidence-based ways forward. What’s in their secret sauce? (Please pardon the pun). Three key themes: (1) METRICS: The food truck Read more…
Can people get re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Food trucks! Pittsburgh Magazine’s recent article showcases scrappy food truck owners working hard to re-open *safely.* It’s a joy to see the amazing work ethic and bright minds of these small business owners innovating evidence-based ways forward. What’s in their secret sauce? (Please pardon the pun). Three key themes: (1) METRICS: The food truck Read more…
Can people get re-infected with SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and SpreadAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Prior reports of individuals testing positive again after recovering from COVID-19 raised concerns that individuals were being re-infected with SARS-CoV-2. Tests used to determine if someone has COVID-19, detect presence of the virus’s genetic material, but do not indicate whether a person is actively shedding virus capable of infecting cells-an indicator of active infection. Read more…
Is it safe to eat at restaurants yet? Even if I can go to a restaurant, should I?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical Symptoms
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: All steps at venturing out will involve risk, so the first step is to weigh infection prevalence (and increases or decreases) in your region and personal risk factors. It’s still best to opt for takeout or delivery if you are high risk or live with someone who is…no shame in not rushing out! If Read more…
Are people with underlying conditions at higher risk for COVID-19 complications and death?
Clinical SymptomsSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
Q: People with underlying conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes seem to be at higher risk for complications and death from COVID-19. Can you tell me more about this? Is there anything I can do to minimize the chance of a severe illness if I become infected? A. This is a very important Read more…
I see advertisements for Covid-19 antibody tests. Is it worth getting tested? What will an antibody test tell me?
Testing and Contact TracingAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Antibody tests are important in understanding Covid-19 and its spread through a population, but the information might not be as useful on a personal level just yet. When considering a serology test, we encourage you to think about why you are getting the test, where you will receive the test, and how it will Read more…
What’s my personal risk for a bad COVID outcome should I become infected?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: A variety of “risk calculators” have been developed to help you answer this very question (Links below). BIG CAVEAT: There are huge margins of error on the results, often making the risk scores MORE PRECISE THAN ACCURATE. Background: As much of the country continues to move through re-opening phases, we as individuals are having Read more…
What is the effect of COVID-19 on people who live in slums?
Social and Racial JusticeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Over 1 billion people worldwide live in slums, characterized by dense living, lack of infrastructure (potable water, adequate sewerage), unstable homes, no land tenure, and widespread poverty. These conditions put slum residents at high risk of disease, especially COVID-19. While some countries are imposing lockdowns, other countries are doing nothing. While there are reports Read more…
Is there anything new I can try to improve my mental health during the COVID-19 crisis?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Yes, there is and there is hope! Let’s start with the facts. A recent report from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) noted that up to 45% of Americans reported that their mental health has worsened since the start of the pandemic. This appears to be more than the one in five Americans who are Read more…
I hear there’s good news on the vaccine front this week. Can you please provide an overview?
VaccinesLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: A new type of vaccine technology has demonstrated safety and the ability to spark an immune reaction in a small sample of people, providing proof-of-concept for its eventual use as a broadly administered vaccine. Which is indeed good news. But alas, it’s still very early days….. A little bit of background: The new technology Read more…
Are there vitamins or supplements that I should take to prevent and/or treat COVID-19?
Staying Safe TreatmentsAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
Treatments
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Here is the best evidence we found. Vitamin C: No. Modest evidence in prevention (even for the common cold). Evidence for treatment is still being examined in COVID-19 but unlikely to yield much benefit. May reduce ICU stay length and decrease need for mechanical ventilation but still being studied. Vitamin D: Yes to daily Read more…
What is this news about an antibody “100% cure” I just heard? Please tell me this is true!
TreatmentsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
Reopening
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: The Nerdy Girls want nothing more to wake up one day to this type of COVID-19 “game-changer” news. Maybe this was all a bad dream! For now, we lean towards consuming this stream of press with both cautious optimism AND skepticism. The news story in question from Friday came from a press release by Read more…
My state is re-opening. Yay! Also, yikes! Are we…ready??
ReopeningAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: Short answer: Probably not. Longer answer: The White House published “gating criteria” in their Reopening America Again guidelines. These are data-driven criteria that each state or region should satisfy before reopening. They include things like having a 14-day downward trajectory or new cases, hospital capacity to treat all patients without crisis, and a “robust” Read more…
I keep hearing about a move towards a “harm reduction” phase of the pandemic response, what does this mean?
Reopening Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: As defined in the article below, “harm reduction refers to policies and practices designed to minimize negative health, social and legal impacts of a particular activity.” An example of public health efforts aimed at harm reduction are needle exchange programs where individuals using injected drugs can exchange used needles for clean ones as a Read more…
I need to know more about this virus. With all this talk about church choirs being risky events, does this imply that the virus is spread through the air?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and SpreadAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: We still believe that the virus is transmitted primarily through droplets. But, here’s the truth: there is a very fine line between droplet and airborne transmission. Airborne: Transmitted by tiny droplets that remain suspended in the air. Can travel distances. (Hypothesized for SARS and MERS) Droplet: Transmitted by larger droplets that fall to the Read more…
I live a simple life. I don’t go to dance clubs or bars. If we practice social distancing, will it be okay to return to church? I miss being with other people.
Socializing Staying SafeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
A: I understand. This is hard. Unfortunately, any activity (e.g., grocery store, church, birthday party) where you are in an enclosed space with a group of people poses a risk. Being outdoors and keeping interactions brief likely minimizes this risk. Take this recent CDC report of a 61-person choir that met for 2.5 hours on Read more…
