Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Social and Racial Justice
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The pandemic has shone a new light on the harms of racism in our society. Narrowly viewed, COVID-19 affects Black, brown, and Native people more often and more seriously than people who are white. And broadly speaking, the pandemic has also laid bare fundamental injustices in our social order. Today, we pause to honor Dr. Read more…
Is it safe to play on a playground?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES, playgrounds can be safe with some guidelines. The risk of transmission on an outdoor playground is low (but not zero). The greatest risk of infection comes from the people on the playground, not the equipment. Skip the snack, pack some hand sanitizer, and stay SMART. SPREAD OUT. Keep space between your crew and Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sandra Albrecht
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Time for us to meet our next Nerdy Girl! Introducing Dr. Sandra Albrecht, PhD, MPH. Dr. Albrecht is a regular contributor here at Dear Pandemic, and is also the Editor-in-Chief at our Spanish-language sister site, Querida Pandemia. Like several of the other NG’s, Dr. Albrecht is a researcher trained in social epidemiology. She studies the Read more…
If I get vaccinated and I’m with another person who has gotten vaccinated, is it safe to spend time together without masks?
Socializing Staying Safe Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It will be much safer for the two of you to spend time in close contact than if one or both of you were not vaccinated, but keep in mind protection is not immediate nor 100%. You will also still need to take steps to prevent spreading infection to others until your community gets Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Alison Buttenheim will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about 2nd vaccine doses, kids and COVID, and the range of vaccine hesitancy. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! ➡️ Welcome and Announcements! Please Read more…
¿Alguien que ha sido vacunado todavía necesita usar mascarilla y tomar otras precauciones?
Masks Posts en Español Vaccines
Alejandra Silva Hernández, Spanish Translation
R. Sí. Todavía no sabemos si las vacunas previenen que alguien se infecte de algún virus. Los estudios existentes de la vacuna COVID-19 se enfocaron en un criterio de valoración específico- COVID-19 como enfermedad sintomática. Sabemos que tanto las vacunas Pfizer como Moderna tuvieron una eficacia cercana al 95% en la prevención de la enfermedad Read more…
How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
The pandemic has shone a new light on the harms of racism in our society. Narrowly viewed, COVID-19 affects Black, brown, and Native people more often and more seriously than people who are white. And broadly speaking, the pandemic has also laid bare fundamental injustices in our social order. Today, we pause to honor Dr. Read more…
Is it safe to play on a playground?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES, playgrounds can be safe with some guidelines. The risk of transmission on an outdoor playground is low (but not zero). The greatest risk of infection comes from the people on the playground, not the equipment. Skip the snack, pack some hand sanitizer, and stay SMART. SPREAD OUT. Keep space between your crew and Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sandra Albrecht
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Time for us to meet our next Nerdy Girl! Introducing Dr. Sandra Albrecht, PhD, MPH. Dr. Albrecht is a regular contributor here at Dear Pandemic, and is also the Editor-in-Chief at our Spanish-language sister site, Querida Pandemia. Like several of the other NG’s, Dr. Albrecht is a researcher trained in social epidemiology. She studies the Read more…
If I get vaccinated and I’m with another person who has gotten vaccinated, is it safe to spend time together without masks?
Socializing Staying Safe Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It will be much safer for the two of you to spend time in close contact than if one or both of you were not vaccinated, but keep in mind protection is not immediate nor 100%. You will also still need to take steps to prevent spreading infection to others until your community gets Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Alison Buttenheim will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about 2nd vaccine doses, kids and COVID, and the range of vaccine hesitancy. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! ➡️ Welcome and Announcements! Please Read more…
¿Alguien que ha sido vacunado todavía necesita usar mascarilla y tomar otras precauciones?
Masks Posts en Español Vaccines
Alejandra Silva Hernández, Spanish Translation
R. Sí. Todavía no sabemos si las vacunas previenen que alguien se infecte de algún virus. Los estudios existentes de la vacuna COVID-19 se enfocaron en un criterio de valoración específico- COVID-19 como enfermedad sintomática. Sabemos que tanto las vacunas Pfizer como Moderna tuvieron una eficacia cercana al 95% en la prevención de la enfermedad Read more…
How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A: YES, playgrounds can be safe with some guidelines. The risk of transmission on an outdoor playground is low (but not zero). The greatest risk of infection comes from the people on the playground, not the equipment. Skip the snack, pack some hand sanitizer, and stay SMART. SPREAD OUT. Keep space between your crew and Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sandra Albrecht
UncategorizedMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Time for us to meet our next Nerdy Girl! Introducing Dr. Sandra Albrecht, PhD, MPH. Dr. Albrecht is a regular contributor here at Dear Pandemic, and is also the Editor-in-Chief at our Spanish-language sister site, Querida Pandemia. Like several of the other NG’s, Dr. Albrecht is a researcher trained in social epidemiology. She studies the Read more…
If I get vaccinated and I’m with another person who has gotten vaccinated, is it safe to spend time together without masks?
Socializing Staying Safe Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It will be much safer for the two of you to spend time in close contact than if one or both of you were not vaccinated, but keep in mind protection is not immediate nor 100%. You will also still need to take steps to prevent spreading infection to others until your community gets Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Alison Buttenheim will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about 2nd vaccine doses, kids and COVID, and the range of vaccine hesitancy. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! ➡️ Welcome and Announcements! Please Read more…
¿Alguien que ha sido vacunado todavía necesita usar mascarilla y tomar otras precauciones?
Masks Posts en Español Vaccines
Alejandra Silva Hernández, Spanish Translation
R. Sí. Todavía no sabemos si las vacunas previenen que alguien se infecte de algún virus. Los estudios existentes de la vacuna COVID-19 se enfocaron en un criterio de valoración específico- COVID-19 como enfermedad sintomática. Sabemos que tanto las vacunas Pfizer como Moderna tuvieron una eficacia cercana al 95% en la prevención de la enfermedad Read more…
How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
Time for us to meet our next Nerdy Girl! Introducing Dr. Sandra Albrecht, PhD, MPH. Dr. Albrecht is a regular contributor here at Dear Pandemic, and is also the Editor-in-Chief at our Spanish-language sister site, Querida Pandemia. Like several of the other NG’s, Dr. Albrecht is a researcher trained in social epidemiology. She studies the Read more…
If I get vaccinated and I’m with another person who has gotten vaccinated, is it safe to spend time together without masks?
Socializing Staying Safe VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It will be much safer for the two of you to spend time in close contact than if one or both of you were not vaccinated, but keep in mind protection is not immediate nor 100%. You will also still need to take steps to prevent spreading infection to others until your community gets Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Alison Buttenheim will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about 2nd vaccine doses, kids and COVID, and the range of vaccine hesitancy. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! ➡️ Welcome and Announcements! Please Read more…
¿Alguien que ha sido vacunado todavía necesita usar mascarilla y tomar otras precauciones?
Masks Posts en Español Vaccines
Alejandra Silva Hernández, Spanish Translation
R. Sí. Todavía no sabemos si las vacunas previenen que alguien se infecte de algún virus. Los estudios existentes de la vacuna COVID-19 se enfocaron en un criterio de valoración específico- COVID-19 como enfermedad sintomática. Sabemos que tanto las vacunas Pfizer como Moderna tuvieron una eficacia cercana al 95% en la prevención de la enfermedad Read more…
How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A: It will be much safer for the two of you to spend time in close contact than if one or both of you were not vaccinated, but keep in mind protection is not immediate nor 100%. You will also still need to take steps to prevent spreading infection to others until your community gets Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Alison Buttenheim will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about 2nd vaccine doses, kids and COVID, and the range of vaccine hesitancy. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! ➡️ Welcome and Announcements! Please Read more…
¿Alguien que ha sido vacunado todavía necesita usar mascarilla y tomar otras precauciones?
Masks Posts en Español Vaccines
Alejandra Silva Hernández, Spanish Translation
R. Sí. Todavía no sabemos si las vacunas previenen que alguien se infecte de algún virus. Los estudios existentes de la vacuna COVID-19 se enfocaron en un criterio de valoración específico- COVID-19 como enfermedad sintomática. Sabemos que tanto las vacunas Pfizer como Moderna tuvieron una eficacia cercana al 95% en la prevención de la enfermedad Read more…
How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Alison Buttenheim will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about 2nd vaccine doses, kids and COVID, and the range of vaccine hesitancy. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! ➡️ Welcome and Announcements! Please Read more…
¿Alguien que ha sido vacunado todavía necesita usar mascarilla y tomar otras precauciones?
Masks Posts en Español VaccinesAlejandra Silva Hernández, Spanish Translation
R. Sí. Todavía no sabemos si las vacunas previenen que alguien se infecte de algún virus. Los estudios existentes de la vacuna COVID-19 se enfocaron en un criterio de valoración específico- COVID-19 como enfermedad sintomática. Sabemos que tanto las vacunas Pfizer como Moderna tuvieron una eficacia cercana al 95% en la prevención de la enfermedad Read more…
How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
R. Sí. Todavía no sabemos si las vacunas previenen que alguien se infecte de algún virus. Los estudios existentes de la vacuna COVID-19 se enfocaron en un criterio de valoración específico- COVID-19 como enfermedad sintomática. Sabemos que tanto las vacunas Pfizer como Moderna tuvieron una eficacia cercana al 95% en la prevención de la enfermedad Read more…
How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast?
VaccinesAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
Q: How is West Virginia getting vaccines in arms so fast? They have vaccinated at a higher rate than any other state! A: 3 things have driven West Virginia’s success: 1. A unique arrangement with local pharmacies (not national chains) to vaccinate long-term care staff and residents. 2. Advanced planning. 3. Leadership. First, let’s do Read more…
“El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”
Families/Kids Posts en EspañolTita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A medida que continúa la pandemia de COVID-19, las familias de todo el mundo se enfrentan a desafíos nuevos y cambiantes todos los días. Por eso, Unicef nos presenta “El minuto de Mae: Apoyando a Elmo durante la pandemia de Covid-19”. La mamá de Elmo, Mae nos comparte lo que le ha ayudado a ell Read more…
What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
Calling all Nerdy Citizen Scientists! Please take our survey!
Uncertainty and MisinformationMalia Jones, PhD MPH
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
We have an opportunity for you to contribute to our scientific understanding of the pandemic and the role of social media! The most important part of #scicomm is the audience, and the most important part of public health is the public. That’s why we are delighted to invite YOU to participate in this survey designed Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
¿Cómo puedo evitar que mis gafas se empañen cuando uso una mascarilla?
Masks Posts en EspañolDaisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
R: Primero, ¡gracias por utilizar su mascarilla! Esto es un paso clave para prevenir la transmisión del virus. Entendemos que no siempre es fácil usar una mascarilla, especialmente cuando se utilizan gafas. ¡Siempre se empañan! ¿Por qué? Bueno, en general, cuando el aire cálido choca con superficies frías, se crea condensación. Cuando usa una mascarilla, Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesA: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
Is COVID really worse than the flu?
Data and MetricsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A: Yes. Many, many more people are being hospitalized and dying with COVID than even a very bad flu season. To visualize ICU admissions in England compared to recent flu seasons, check out this animation from Jonathan Burn-Murdoch at the Financial Times. We’ve previously written on the current best estimates of the COVID-19 infection fatality Read more…
2021 isn’t turning out to be the calm, awesome year I’d hoped for. Can we start over?
Mental HealthLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A: Sigh. From riots to record pandemic death tolls, anxieties are running high … and our resolutions have stalled out already. Research shows that taking a step back to ask what matters most (and why) can help shore up well-being, even in tumultuous times. Read more for a purpose-finding playbook. The good news is living Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread VaccinesAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en Español
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
¿Por qué los hombres sufren un COVID-19 más severo y tienen un mayor riesgo de muerte?
Clinical Symptoms Posts en EspañolDaisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
R: Es posible que las mujeres puedan generar una respuesta de células T más fuerte a la infección por SARS-CoV-2, según un estudio en Nature del laboratorio de la Dra. Akiko Iwasaki, inmunólogo y profesora de la Universidad de Yale en EE.UU.. En este estudio, los investigadores recolectaron muestras de sangre, saliva, y otras serologías Read more…
