Will the 6 feet/2 meter rule keep me safe indoors?
Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not by itself. Important additional considerations include: • Ventilation • Number of people in the room • Duration of contact • Type of activity (silent, speaking, shouting/singing) • Use of masks Why are these additional precautions needed? Don’t airborne droplets fall to the ground within this distance? The history of the 6ft/2m distancing rule Read more…
I hear there has been a confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2 re-infection in Hong Kong?! How worried should I be?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not very. In the words of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki, “This is no cause for alarm – this is a textbook example of how immunity should work.” What do we know? In a press release yesterday, researchers described the first confirmed case of re-infection in a 33-year old Hong Kong man returning from Spain. Read more…
How do I know how much community transmission there is in my community? I am swimming in data! Someone throw me a rope!
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: We recommend checking this awesome data exploration tool from Harvard University’s Global Health Institute. We’ve talked a lot here at Dear Pandemic about how important community spread of COVID is, and how it’s necessary for anything like safe reopening in any setting–from first grades to zoos. The map at the top of the Path Read more…
What is “community transmission”? Isn’t *all* of it community transmission?
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: In short, yes. At this point, it’s all community transmission—except in rare cases when contact tracers can pinpoint one specific point of exposure and identify the exact chain of transmission from person-to-person. Community transmission is a technical epidemiology term that means new cases can’t be linked back to a particular point of origin through Read more…
Comparison of Seasonal Influenza and SARS-CoV-2
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In the run up to flu season, a great summary of differences between flu and COVID-19. Don’t forget to get your flu shot!! Your local epidemiologist is sharing a COVID-19 Update. August 19 at 8:12 PM · Flu season is around the corner. This, combined with COVID19, will have an impact on the health our Read more…
What safety precautions for clothing, supplies, and shoes can I take if I am sending my children back to school?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While there are no stringent guidelines, we know that we should wash everything frequently with soap and water. Continue to follow SMART guidelines. And make it a routine and it will be easier to remember. Here are some guidelines for children returning to school in descending order of importance: 1) Reinforce hand washing. Pack Read more…
Seven Months In: What’s the State of the Science?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: Not by itself. Important additional considerations include: • Ventilation • Number of people in the room • Duration of contact • Type of activity (silent, speaking, shouting/singing) • Use of masks Why are these additional precautions needed? Don’t airborne droplets fall to the ground within this distance? The history of the 6ft/2m distancing rule Read more…
I hear there has been a confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2 re-infection in Hong Kong?! How worried should I be?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Not very. In the words of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki, “This is no cause for alarm – this is a textbook example of how immunity should work.” What do we know? In a press release yesterday, researchers described the first confirmed case of re-infection in a 33-year old Hong Kong man returning from Spain. Read more…
How do I know how much community transmission there is in my community? I am swimming in data! Someone throw me a rope!
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: We recommend checking this awesome data exploration tool from Harvard University’s Global Health Institute. We’ve talked a lot here at Dear Pandemic about how important community spread of COVID is, and how it’s necessary for anything like safe reopening in any setting–from first grades to zoos. The map at the top of the Path Read more…
What is “community transmission”? Isn’t *all* of it community transmission?
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: In short, yes. At this point, it’s all community transmission—except in rare cases when contact tracers can pinpoint one specific point of exposure and identify the exact chain of transmission from person-to-person. Community transmission is a technical epidemiology term that means new cases can’t be linked back to a particular point of origin through Read more…
Comparison of Seasonal Influenza and SARS-CoV-2
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In the run up to flu season, a great summary of differences between flu and COVID-19. Don’t forget to get your flu shot!! Your local epidemiologist is sharing a COVID-19 Update. August 19 at 8:12 PM · Flu season is around the corner. This, combined with COVID19, will have an impact on the health our Read more…
What safety precautions for clothing, supplies, and shoes can I take if I am sending my children back to school?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While there are no stringent guidelines, we know that we should wash everything frequently with soap and water. Continue to follow SMART guidelines. And make it a routine and it will be easier to remember. Here are some guidelines for children returning to school in descending order of importance: 1) Reinforce hand washing. Pack Read more…
Seven Months In: What’s the State of the Science?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: Not very. In the words of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki, “This is no cause for alarm – this is a textbook example of how immunity should work.” What do we know? In a press release yesterday, researchers described the first confirmed case of re-infection in a 33-year old Hong Kong man returning from Spain. Read more…
How do I know how much community transmission there is in my community? I am swimming in data! Someone throw me a rope!
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: We recommend checking this awesome data exploration tool from Harvard University’s Global Health Institute. We’ve talked a lot here at Dear Pandemic about how important community spread of COVID is, and how it’s necessary for anything like safe reopening in any setting–from first grades to zoos. The map at the top of the Path Read more…
What is “community transmission”? Isn’t *all* of it community transmission?
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: In short, yes. At this point, it’s all community transmission—except in rare cases when contact tracers can pinpoint one specific point of exposure and identify the exact chain of transmission from person-to-person. Community transmission is a technical epidemiology term that means new cases can’t be linked back to a particular point of origin through Read more…
Comparison of Seasonal Influenza and SARS-CoV-2
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In the run up to flu season, a great summary of differences between flu and COVID-19. Don’t forget to get your flu shot!! Your local epidemiologist is sharing a COVID-19 Update. August 19 at 8:12 PM · Flu season is around the corner. This, combined with COVID19, will have an impact on the health our Read more…
What safety precautions for clothing, supplies, and shoes can I take if I am sending my children back to school?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While there are no stringent guidelines, we know that we should wash everything frequently with soap and water. Continue to follow SMART guidelines. And make it a routine and it will be easier to remember. Here are some guidelines for children returning to school in descending order of importance: 1) Reinforce hand washing. Pack Read more…
Seven Months In: What’s the State of the Science?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: We recommend checking this awesome data exploration tool from Harvard University’s Global Health Institute. We’ve talked a lot here at Dear Pandemic about how important community spread of COVID is, and how it’s necessary for anything like safe reopening in any setting–from first grades to zoos. The map at the top of the Path Read more…
What is “community transmission”? Isn’t *all* of it community transmission?
Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: In short, yes. At this point, it’s all community transmission—except in rare cases when contact tracers can pinpoint one specific point of exposure and identify the exact chain of transmission from person-to-person. Community transmission is a technical epidemiology term that means new cases can’t be linked back to a particular point of origin through Read more…
Comparison of Seasonal Influenza and SARS-CoV-2
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In the run up to flu season, a great summary of differences between flu and COVID-19. Don’t forget to get your flu shot!! Your local epidemiologist is sharing a COVID-19 Update. August 19 at 8:12 PM · Flu season is around the corner. This, combined with COVID19, will have an impact on the health our Read more…
What safety precautions for clothing, supplies, and shoes can I take if I am sending my children back to school?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While there are no stringent guidelines, we know that we should wash everything frequently with soap and water. Continue to follow SMART guidelines. And make it a routine and it will be easier to remember. Here are some guidelines for children returning to school in descending order of importance: 1) Reinforce hand washing. Pack Read more…
Seven Months In: What’s the State of the Science?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: In short, yes. At this point, it’s all community transmission—except in rare cases when contact tracers can pinpoint one specific point of exposure and identify the exact chain of transmission from person-to-person. Community transmission is a technical epidemiology term that means new cases can’t be linked back to a particular point of origin through Read more…
Comparison of Seasonal Influenza and SARS-CoV-2
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In the run up to flu season, a great summary of differences between flu and COVID-19. Don’t forget to get your flu shot!! Your local epidemiologist is sharing a COVID-19 Update. August 19 at 8:12 PM · Flu season is around the corner. This, combined with COVID19, will have an impact on the health our Read more…
What safety precautions for clothing, supplies, and shoes can I take if I am sending my children back to school?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While there are no stringent guidelines, we know that we should wash everything frequently with soap and water. Continue to follow SMART guidelines. And make it a routine and it will be easier to remember. Here are some guidelines for children returning to school in descending order of importance: 1) Reinforce hand washing. Pack Read more…
Seven Months In: What’s the State of the Science?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
In the run up to flu season, a great summary of differences between flu and COVID-19. Don’t forget to get your flu shot!! Your local epidemiologist is sharing a COVID-19 Update. August 19 at 8:12 PM · Flu season is around the corner. This, combined with COVID19, will have an impact on the health our Read more…
What safety precautions for clothing, supplies, and shoes can I take if I am sending my children back to school?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Reopening School Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While there are no stringent guidelines, we know that we should wash everything frequently with soap and water. Continue to follow SMART guidelines. And make it a routine and it will be easier to remember. Here are some guidelines for children returning to school in descending order of importance: 1) Reinforce hand washing. Pack Read more…
Seven Months In: What’s the State of the Science?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: While there are no stringent guidelines, we know that we should wash everything frequently with soap and water. Continue to follow SMART guidelines. And make it a routine and it will be easier to remember. Here are some guidelines for children returning to school in descending order of importance: 1) Reinforce hand washing. Pack Read more…
Seven Months In: What’s the State of the Science?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
Andrew Joseph, Helen Branswell, and Elizabeth Conney of StatNews have pulled together a tour-de-force synthesis of what science does – and does not – yet know about SARS-CoV-2 and its companion disease, COVID-19. A truly terrific read Some highlights: SPACE AND PLACE MATTER. A LOT. Transmission risk is greatly elevated in crowded indoor spaces with Read more…
What’s the deal with the news that COVID-19 immunity only lasts up to 3 months?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Uncertainty and MisinformationJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: NOPE In a news story picked up by many media outlets yesterday, headlines regarding the duration of immunity were inferred from recent CDC guidance on quarantine. The relevant sentence from the CDC was: “People who have tested positive for COVID-19 do not need to quarantine or get tested again for up to 3 months Read more…
Does UV light kill coronavirus on surfaces? How about in the air?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
UVC light, a certain wavelength of UV light, has been used for many years to kill certain viruses. It is often called germicidal ultraviolet light. Here is what we know to date about UVC light and SARS-CoV-2. Most UVC light is blocked by the ozone layer. This means that there is not sufficient UVC light Read more…
What is considered “exposure” to someone who has COVID-19? Once you find out you were exposed, what should you do?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: If you have been in close contact (i.e., < 6 feet away for ≥ 15 minutes) with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 anytime starting 2 days before their symptoms developed and up until the case meets the criteria to end isolation (i.e., at least 10 days have passed since the day of symptom onset AND Read more…
Is it safe to start seeing friends indoors?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
A: Not yet. While there are ways to minimize risks when indoors (increasing ventilation with outdoor air by opening windows or circulating air/using a high quality air filter/minimizing length of indoor interaction), experts still agree that the outdoors are where we should be. This point is very much emphasized in a recent preprint. TL; DR: Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadMalia 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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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.
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…
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…
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
