Which vaccine is best for little kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Two vaccines were authorized for children in the 6 months-5 years age group on the same day, leaving many parents wondering which is best. Each has its pros and cons. The bottom line: if low side effects is your priority and you don’t mind three visits to the clinic over the course of three months, Read more…
June 21, 2022
What are the health impacts of COVID-19 on young children?
Families/Kids Long COVID Vaccines
Chana Davis, PhD
What are the health impacts of COVID-19 on young children? How does the burden of COVID-19 compare to other vaccine-preventable diseases? COVID-19 is usually mild and short-lived in young kids. Yet, a small fraction of cases result in severe outcomes like Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome, long-term symptoms, or even death. These tragedies strike children with and Read more…
June 20, 2022
Should I vaccinate my kids even if they’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
With COVID-19 vaccines for kids down to 6 months becoming available this week in the U.S., our Nerdy friend Dr. Katelyn Jetelina of Your Local Epidemiologist makes the strong case for vaccinating your kids, *even* if they’ve already been infected. TL;DR: ➡️ Kids ARE at risk from COVID. Thankfully kids die less often of almost Read more…
June 7, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 06-06-22
COVID Variants Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
May 23, 2022
What should I do if I can’t find any baby formula?
Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Call your baby’s primary are clinician to get advice right away. In general, unless the baby is on a specialty formula, most ingredients are similar between formulas and switching brands is ok. Do not add extra water to stretch formulas or make your own at home. There are potential serious risks to the baby. Read more…
May 9, 2022
Is there a baby formula shortage in the U.S.?
Families/Kids
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Answer: Yes. Across the U.S. there are multiple reports of shortages. In some cases up to 40% of the most popular formulas are not currently available on store shelves for the week of April 24. The hardest hit states have been: Connecticut, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Parents have reported empty Read more…
May 6, 2022
Should I be worried about hepatitis in children?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
April 27, 2022
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
Two vaccines were authorized for children in the 6 months-5 years age group on the same day, leaving many parents wondering which is best. Each has its pros and cons. The bottom line: if low side effects is your priority and you don’t mind three visits to the clinic over the course of three months, Read more…
What are the health impacts of COVID-19 on young children?
Families/Kids Long COVID Vaccines
Chana Davis, PhD
What are the health impacts of COVID-19 on young children? How does the burden of COVID-19 compare to other vaccine-preventable diseases? COVID-19 is usually mild and short-lived in young kids. Yet, a small fraction of cases result in severe outcomes like Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome, long-term symptoms, or even death. These tragedies strike children with and Read more…
June 20, 2022
Should I vaccinate my kids even if they’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
With COVID-19 vaccines for kids down to 6 months becoming available this week in the U.S., our Nerdy friend Dr. Katelyn Jetelina of Your Local Epidemiologist makes the strong case for vaccinating your kids, *even* if they’ve already been infected. TL;DR: ➡️ Kids ARE at risk from COVID. Thankfully kids die less often of almost Read more…
June 7, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 06-06-22
COVID Variants Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
May 23, 2022
What should I do if I can’t find any baby formula?
Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Call your baby’s primary are clinician to get advice right away. In general, unless the baby is on a specialty formula, most ingredients are similar between formulas and switching brands is ok. Do not add extra water to stretch formulas or make your own at home. There are potential serious risks to the baby. Read more…
May 9, 2022
Is there a baby formula shortage in the U.S.?
Families/Kids
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Answer: Yes. Across the U.S. there are multiple reports of shortages. In some cases up to 40% of the most popular formulas are not currently available on store shelves for the week of April 24. The hardest hit states have been: Connecticut, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Parents have reported empty Read more…
May 6, 2022
Should I be worried about hepatitis in children?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
April 27, 2022
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
What are the health impacts of COVID-19 on young children? How does the burden of COVID-19 compare to other vaccine-preventable diseases? COVID-19 is usually mild and short-lived in young kids. Yet, a small fraction of cases result in severe outcomes like Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome, long-term symptoms, or even death. These tragedies strike children with and Read more…
Should I vaccinate my kids even if they’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
With COVID-19 vaccines for kids down to 6 months becoming available this week in the U.S., our Nerdy friend Dr. Katelyn Jetelina of Your Local Epidemiologist makes the strong case for vaccinating your kids, *even* if they’ve already been infected. TL;DR: ➡️ Kids ARE at risk from COVID. Thankfully kids die less often of almost Read more…
June 7, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 06-06-22
COVID Variants Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
May 23, 2022
What should I do if I can’t find any baby formula?
Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Call your baby’s primary are clinician to get advice right away. In general, unless the baby is on a specialty formula, most ingredients are similar between formulas and switching brands is ok. Do not add extra water to stretch formulas or make your own at home. There are potential serious risks to the baby. Read more…
May 9, 2022
Is there a baby formula shortage in the U.S.?
Families/Kids
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Answer: Yes. Across the U.S. there are multiple reports of shortages. In some cases up to 40% of the most popular formulas are not currently available on store shelves for the week of April 24. The hardest hit states have been: Connecticut, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Parents have reported empty Read more…
May 6, 2022
Should I be worried about hepatitis in children?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
April 27, 2022
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
With COVID-19 vaccines for kids down to 6 months becoming available this week in the U.S., our Nerdy friend Dr. Katelyn Jetelina of Your Local Epidemiologist makes the strong case for vaccinating your kids, *even* if they’ve already been infected. TL;DR: ➡️ Kids ARE at risk from COVID. Thankfully kids die less often of almost Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 06-06-22
COVID Variants Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
May 23, 2022
What should I do if I can’t find any baby formula?
Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Call your baby’s primary are clinician to get advice right away. In general, unless the baby is on a specialty formula, most ingredients are similar between formulas and switching brands is ok. Do not add extra water to stretch formulas or make your own at home. There are potential serious risks to the baby. Read more…
May 9, 2022
Is there a baby formula shortage in the U.S.?
Families/Kids
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Answer: Yes. Across the U.S. there are multiple reports of shortages. In some cases up to 40% of the most popular formulas are not currently available on store shelves for the week of April 24. The hardest hit states have been: Connecticut, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Parents have reported empty Read more…
May 6, 2022
Should I be worried about hepatitis in children?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
April 27, 2022
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
What should I do if I can’t find any baby formula?
Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Call your baby’s primary are clinician to get advice right away. In general, unless the baby is on a specialty formula, most ingredients are similar between formulas and switching brands is ok. Do not add extra water to stretch formulas or make your own at home. There are potential serious risks to the baby. Read more…
May 9, 2022
Is there a baby formula shortage in the U.S.?
Families/Kids
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Answer: Yes. Across the U.S. there are multiple reports of shortages. In some cases up to 40% of the most popular formulas are not currently available on store shelves for the week of April 24. The hardest hit states have been: Connecticut, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Parents have reported empty Read more…
May 6, 2022
Should I be worried about hepatitis in children?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
April 27, 2022
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
TL;DR: Call your baby’s primary are clinician to get advice right away. In general, unless the baby is on a specialty formula, most ingredients are similar between formulas and switching brands is ok. Do not add extra water to stretch formulas or make your own at home. There are potential serious risks to the baby. Read more…
Is there a baby formula shortage in the U.S.?
Families/Kids
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Answer: Yes. Across the U.S. there are multiple reports of shortages. In some cases up to 40% of the most popular formulas are not currently available on store shelves for the week of April 24. The hardest hit states have been: Connecticut, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Parents have reported empty Read more…
May 6, 2022
Should I be worried about hepatitis in children?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
April 27, 2022
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
Answer: Yes. Across the U.S. there are multiple reports of shortages. In some cases up to 40% of the most popular formulas are not currently available on store shelves for the week of April 24. The hardest hit states have been: Connecticut, Delaware, Montana, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington. Parents have reported empty Read more…
Should I be worried about hepatitis in children?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
April 27, 2022
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
A: You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of hepatitis in children, but there is no reason to panic. Cases seem to be on the rise among children, but scientists are still watching the data closely and do not yet know the cause. 🤒 What is hepatitis anyways? Hepatitis is a broad term Read more…
Did getting exposed to fewer germs for the last 2 years weaken our immune systems?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
April 26, 2022
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
A: Not likely. If your kids are suddenly getting sick a lot, this is likely due to “catching up” on exposures rather than a weakened immune system. Many families with young kids have been hunkered down for the better part of two years– a good % of a young child’s entire life. While isolation Read more…
Kids’ vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
April 21, 2022
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
TL;DR: Many kids missed vaccines during the pandemic and we need to get kids caught up now! Vaccines are incredibly important to prevent serious childhood illness and save lives. Vaccination rates decreased during the height of the pandemic and have not yet caught up. The CDC just released a report looking at kindergarteners in the Read more…
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
March 24, 2022
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination can help them feel safe and ready for their vaccines. Below are a few tips to help you have this Read more…
Moderna will submit for approval of its kids’ vaccine
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
March 5, 2022
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
TL;DR: Moderna’s kids vaccine hit high marks for safety and antibody response, but efficacy against mild illness was not as high as earlier trials (likely due to Omicron). Moderna announced yesterday (via press release) that they will submit for Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) of their vaccine for kids aged 6 months to < 6 years. Read more…
How can I help my child understand the change to mask guidance?
Families/Kids Masks Mental Health Reopening
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
March 3, 2022
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
The new CDC guidance recommends that masks need not be worn in areas with low community risk, including at school. If your child is anxious about this change, it’s no surprise. Changes of any type can produce anxiety. And after two years of wearing a mask, your child may not even remember what it was Read more…
What is going on with the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine for 5-11 year old kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1, 2022
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
You may have seen a lot of news about the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for 5–11-year-old kids in the last few days. One new report out of New York suggested that the COVID-19 vaccine for these kids does not provide much protection against getting infected. Another study from the CDC shows that the vaccines continue to Read more…
March 1st is Baby Sleep Day!
Families/Kids General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council FB page for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a prolonged pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their Read more…
