What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental HealthSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingShoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
Are children and adolescents experiencing more mental health symptoms during the pandemic?
Families/Kids Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: It is likely that many children and adolescents are experiencing stress and mental health symptoms as a consequence of the pandemic, but we do not yet know the long term effects. Here is what we do know: -In the U.S. and in many parts of the world, children receive mental health support in school Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
How might the increased number of deaths in the world due to Covid-19 affect the people who are alive?
Mental HealthAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en Español
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: The ripples caused by Covid-19 deaths affect everyone. Losing a family member or loved one, particularly a member of your immediate family, can drastically impact the physical and mental wellbeing of survivors within that network and their communities. A recent study estimated that every individual who loses their life as a result of Covid-19 Read more…
¿Todavía necesito limpiar mis comestibles?
Posts en EspañolSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
R: ¡Buenas noticias! Puede dejar de limpiar sus alimentos con lejía/cloro. Del mismo modo, puede dejar de poner en cuarentena los paquetes que recibe en el correo. Es mucho más probable que uno se enferme al inhalar algo que salió de la boca o la nariz de la persona que está a su lado en Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and MisinformationMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
Can I get RE-infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: While we can’t say it is *impossible,* current scientific consensus is that re-infection is *unlikely.* There are various stories from doctors and patients alike making the rounds about individuals testing positive for COVID-19, perhaps having a mild case and recovering, and then a couple of months later falling ill and testing positive for COVID-19 Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Can mosquitoes spread SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
A: Thankfully, NO! We’ll admit the Nerdy Girls had not even contemplated this SCARY prospect before an astute follower question, and it turns out you all aren’t the only ones to wonder. While infectious disease experts downplayed the risk since the virus is not present in significant infectious quantities in blood (as opposed to those Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and MisinformationAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
Immunology 101 Video
Biology/Immunity VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
Hi Awesome Nerds! As a “booster” to our recent post on vaccine developments, we want to share with you all an amazing 8-minute video on “Immunology 101” made by Prof. Akiko Iwasaki, Professor of Immunobiology at Yale School of Medicine. Watch with your kids, it’s very accessible and the visualizations are great!! Link to original Read more…
