When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
How worried should I be that any time I go outside I will contract coronavirus from outdoor exercise?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: “How worried should I be that any time I go outside, I will contract coronavirus from a fellow pedestrian, runner, or cyclist who happens to exhale as they pass by? A: The answer is, you probably don’t need to freak out about it. As long as you’re maintaining at least 6 feet of distance Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
Could over 20% of individuals living in New York City really already have been exposed to COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Possibly, but there are a few things to consider about the sample of individuals included in the study (and all sero-surveys assessing past exposure to the infection via detection of antibodies targeted against SARS-CoV-2). In this study, ~3000 individuals (~1300 in NYC specifically) were recruited to be tested for presence of antibodies targeted against Read more…
What does a pandemic offensive line look like?
Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: The pandemic offensive line has 5 players: social distancing, testing, isolation, contact tracing, and treatment. The goal is to find the virus, trap it, and prevent it from finding other hosts (people) and harming them. Social distancing makes it harder for the virus to find the next host, but doesn’t tell us where the Read more…
I keep hearing reports that a lab accident caused the pandemic. Is this true?
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts agree: “Virtually no chance.” NPR canvassed ten leading researchers specializing in coronaviruses and/or lab accidents, all of whom share the view that this virus was first transmitted to humans by animals in a real-world setting. As Robert Garry, a microbiologist at Tulane, goes on to explain: “The virus is really too good at Read more…
I’m young(ish) and healthy, do I really need to worry about catching COVID-19?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
How worried should I be that any time I go outside I will contract coronavirus from outdoor exercise?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: “How worried should I be that any time I go outside, I will contract coronavirus from a fellow pedestrian, runner, or cyclist who happens to exhale as they pass by? A: The answer is, you probably don’t need to freak out about it. As long as you’re maintaining at least 6 feet of distance Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
Could over 20% of individuals living in New York City really already have been exposed to COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Possibly, but there are a few things to consider about the sample of individuals included in the study (and all sero-surveys assessing past exposure to the infection via detection of antibodies targeted against SARS-CoV-2). In this study, ~3000 individuals (~1300 in NYC specifically) were recruited to be tested for presence of antibodies targeted against Read more…
What does a pandemic offensive line look like?
Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: The pandemic offensive line has 5 players: social distancing, testing, isolation, contact tracing, and treatment. The goal is to find the virus, trap it, and prevent it from finding other hosts (people) and harming them. Social distancing makes it harder for the virus to find the next host, but doesn’t tell us where the Read more…
I keep hearing reports that a lab accident caused the pandemic. Is this true?
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts agree: “Virtually no chance.” NPR canvassed ten leading researchers specializing in coronaviruses and/or lab accidents, all of whom share the view that this virus was first transmitted to humans by animals in a real-world setting. As Robert Garry, a microbiologist at Tulane, goes on to explain: “The virus is really too good at Read more…
I’m young(ish) and healthy, do I really need to worry about catching COVID-19?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
Q: “How worried should I be that any time I go outside, I will contract coronavirus from a fellow pedestrian, runner, or cyclist who happens to exhale as they pass by? A: The answer is, you probably don’t need to freak out about it. As long as you’re maintaining at least 6 feet of distance Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
Could over 20% of individuals living in New York City really already have been exposed to COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Possibly, but there are a few things to consider about the sample of individuals included in the study (and all sero-surveys assessing past exposure to the infection via detection of antibodies targeted against SARS-CoV-2). In this study, ~3000 individuals (~1300 in NYC specifically) were recruited to be tested for presence of antibodies targeted against Read more…
What does a pandemic offensive line look like?
Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: The pandemic offensive line has 5 players: social distancing, testing, isolation, contact tracing, and treatment. The goal is to find the virus, trap it, and prevent it from finding other hosts (people) and harming them. Social distancing makes it harder for the virus to find the next host, but doesn’t tell us where the Read more…
I keep hearing reports that a lab accident caused the pandemic. Is this true?
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts agree: “Virtually no chance.” NPR canvassed ten leading researchers specializing in coronaviruses and/or lab accidents, all of whom share the view that this virus was first transmitted to humans by animals in a real-world setting. As Robert Garry, a microbiologist at Tulane, goes on to explain: “The virus is really too good at Read more…
I’m young(ish) and healthy, do I really need to worry about catching COVID-19?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
Could over 20% of individuals living in New York City really already have been exposed to COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Possibly, but there are a few things to consider about the sample of individuals included in the study (and all sero-surveys assessing past exposure to the infection via detection of antibodies targeted against SARS-CoV-2). In this study, ~3000 individuals (~1300 in NYC specifically) were recruited to be tested for presence of antibodies targeted against Read more…
What does a pandemic offensive line look like?
Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: The pandemic offensive line has 5 players: social distancing, testing, isolation, contact tracing, and treatment. The goal is to find the virus, trap it, and prevent it from finding other hosts (people) and harming them. Social distancing makes it harder for the virus to find the next host, but doesn’t tell us where the Read more…
I keep hearing reports that a lab accident caused the pandemic. Is this true?
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts agree: “Virtually no chance.” NPR canvassed ten leading researchers specializing in coronaviruses and/or lab accidents, all of whom share the view that this virus was first transmitted to humans by animals in a real-world setting. As Robert Garry, a microbiologist at Tulane, goes on to explain: “The virus is really too good at Read more…
I’m young(ish) and healthy, do I really need to worry about catching COVID-19?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: Possibly, but there are a few things to consider about the sample of individuals included in the study (and all sero-surveys assessing past exposure to the infection via detection of antibodies targeted against SARS-CoV-2). In this study, ~3000 individuals (~1300 in NYC specifically) were recruited to be tested for presence of antibodies targeted against Read more…
What does a pandemic offensive line look like?
Infection and SpreadAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: The pandemic offensive line has 5 players: social distancing, testing, isolation, contact tracing, and treatment. The goal is to find the virus, trap it, and prevent it from finding other hosts (people) and harming them. Social distancing makes it harder for the virus to find the next host, but doesn’t tell us where the Read more…
I keep hearing reports that a lab accident caused the pandemic. Is this true?
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts agree: “Virtually no chance.” NPR canvassed ten leading researchers specializing in coronaviruses and/or lab accidents, all of whom share the view that this virus was first transmitted to humans by animals in a real-world setting. As Robert Garry, a microbiologist at Tulane, goes on to explain: “The virus is really too good at Read more…
I’m young(ish) and healthy, do I really need to worry about catching COVID-19?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: The pandemic offensive line has 5 players: social distancing, testing, isolation, contact tracing, and treatment. The goal is to find the virus, trap it, and prevent it from finding other hosts (people) and harming them. Social distancing makes it harder for the virus to find the next host, but doesn’t tell us where the Read more…
I keep hearing reports that a lab accident caused the pandemic. Is this true?
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts agree: “Virtually no chance.” NPR canvassed ten leading researchers specializing in coronaviruses and/or lab accidents, all of whom share the view that this virus was first transmitted to humans by animals in a real-world setting. As Robert Garry, a microbiologist at Tulane, goes on to explain: “The virus is really too good at Read more…
I’m young(ish) and healthy, do I really need to worry about catching COVID-19?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: Experts agree: “Virtually no chance.” NPR canvassed ten leading researchers specializing in coronaviruses and/or lab accidents, all of whom share the view that this virus was first transmitted to humans by animals in a real-world setting. As Robert Garry, a microbiologist at Tulane, goes on to explain: “The virus is really too good at Read more…
I’m young(ish) and healthy, do I really need to worry about catching COVID-19?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: While the most serious risk for complications and mortality is still at older ages and those with co-morbidities, the course of disease in younger and middle-aged adults is proving highly unpredictable. “There’s a big difference in how people handle this virus,” says Robert Murphy, a professor of medicine and the director of the Center Read more…
I know I’ve been infected with COVID-19. How long am I contagious for and when can I come out of isolation?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A. Scientists still don’t know how long people remain contagious for after infection. The CDC has issued guidelines for when people with known COVID infection can leave the house for essential trips: No fever for at least 72 hours without the use of medicines to reduce the fever, AND Other symptoms have improved, AND At Read more…
What things should I consider if I want to move my loved one out of a nursing home or assisted living facility during the current pandemic?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: Several factors make COVID-19 very dangerous to nursing home and assisted living residents. The virus can go undetected in staff and residents with no symptoms, facilitating rapid spread to older adults with underlying health conditions and their vital care providers. Like hospitals, adequate protective equipment and the capacity to test residents and staff are Read more…
What is a danger of relaxing social distancing measures prematurely?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: A resurgence of cases leading to a second and more severe peak can occur. Medical Historian and Pandemic Expert, Howard Markel, MD, PhD explains, “Easing up on “social distancing” steps too soon, and too quickly, could give the novel coronavirus a chance to race back into broad circulation, he explains. Serious cases, and deaths, Read more…
Meet COVID CRUSH
Infection and Spread UncategorizedAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
COVID CRUSH is a toy model of disease transmission created by our very own nerdy girl, Malia Jones, and her team in the Applied Population Lab at the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Things you can do with this model: 1 – SEE the effects of different levels of social distancing 2 – Home School Read more…
What is an “infectious dose?” What is the “viral load”? Does high viral load increase ability to pass the virus to others?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: Full explainer in the link below from two microbiology Profs. “In general, the more virus you have in your airways, the more you will release when you exhale or cough, although there is a lot of person-to-person variation. Multiple studies have reported that patients have the highest viral load of the coronavirus at the Read more…
What do individuals who are infected with coronavirus and are asymptomatic, pre-symptomatic or mildly symptomatic have in common?
Infection and SpreadAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: All three types of infected individuals may be able to transmit coronavirus to others without realizing they themselves have been infected. ASYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that carry the active virus in their body but never develop any symptoms. PRE-SYMPTOMATIC individuals are those that have been infected with the virus but haven’t started to show Read more…
Should I avoid eating fresh produce?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: No! According to food scientist Dr. Donald Schaffer, the greater infection risk is “standing next to that person at the apple bin.” More great food safety info in this Consumer Reports article. H/T Claire Grosel and Haylle Reidy Link to original FB post
The numbers of cases and deaths in some parts of the country are looking better than expected. Did we overreact with all the distancing measures and closures?
Data and Metrics Infection and SpreadAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: So much no. No, no, nopeity nope. It’s very tempting to Monday morning quarterback the decisions that cities and states have made over the past few weeks, and the recommendations from the CDC. The physical distancing measures, the school closures and the near total shut-down of the economy feel extreme, particularly given some glimmers Read more…
What are four key measures to bend the COVID-19 curve downwards?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
“Four key measures, on top of treating the ill and maintaining physical distancing, must be in place not just to slow the rise of Covid-19 cases, but also to bend the curve downward. These are: test widely, isolate the infected, trace the contacts of those infected and quarantine appropriately.” Links: The New York Times Original Read more…
Why is everyone suddenly talking about the positivity rate? Is this positive psychology or something else?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: Definitely not positive psychology! The positivity rate is simply the fraction of people who test positive for COVID-19 out of all the people who get tested. It is important because it is a rough indicator of how much of the true extent of COVID-19 infection is being detected and diagnosed. In other words, a Read more…
What is a toilet plume? And what does it mean for me?
Infection and SpreadLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: A toilet plume occurs when droplets of feces or urine escape during a toilet flush into the air. COVID-19 may spread through fecal-oral transmission, which means you don’t want any part of that toilet plume. One study estimates that a single open flush can emit up to 80,000 droplets into the air. Covering the Read more…
Should I seek out COVID infection to “get it over with?”
Infection and SpreadLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
A: Hard pass. Epidemiologist Greta Bauer explains why intentional infection is a *very* bad idea in this informative NYTimes write-up. Highlights: Even “mild” cases aren’t so mild; intentional infection is NOT an effective shortcut to herd immunity. Link to original FB post
Is COVID-19 really the leading cause of death in the US?
Data and Metrics Infection and SpreadAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
A: By some measures, yes it is. When one of your friendly resident Nerdy Girls saw this tweet from Andy Slavitt earlier today: “The daily CV death toll has surpassed everything else,” she wondered, can this possibly be true? Well, it turns out that over the past few weeks, COVID-19 has charged up the list Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.