I heard there was a large COVID-19 outbreak at an overnight summer school retreat in WI. What happened?!
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
November 1, 2020
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
October 31, 2020
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
October 30, 2020
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
October 29, 2020
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
October 29, 2020
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
October 27, 2020
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
October 25, 2020
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
October 31, 2020
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
October 30, 2020
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
October 29, 2020
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
October 29, 2020
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
October 27, 2020
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
October 25, 2020
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying SafeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
October 30, 2020
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
October 29, 2020
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
October 29, 2020
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
October 27, 2020
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
October 25, 2020
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
October 29, 2020
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
October 29, 2020
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
October 27, 2020
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
October 25, 2020
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
October 29, 2020
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
October 27, 2020
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
October 25, 2020
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
October 27, 2020
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
October 25, 2020
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
October 25, 2020
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
I can’t help but notice how well Maine is controlling COVID-19. What’s their secret? Rural state? Rich state? Not many older people?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
October 17, 2020
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: Nope to those three, but yes to leadership, preparation, testing & tracing, and calm, science-based communication. It’s true: Maine is doing very well by almost all metrics used to track the epidemic. While 21 states had their highest daily case counts in the last 3 weeks, Maine’s single day record cases happened way back Read more…
What does the new study from last week add to our knowledge about surface transmission of SARS-CoV-2?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
October 17, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
Q: Do we need to wipe the groceries again? Thanks for this great question from Kat in LA and Katey in the UK. A: No need to return to grocery wiping, but wipe down your phone regularly and keep those hands clean. A new study released last week from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
October 12, 2020
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
October 10, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
October 5, 2020
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
Dr. Simanek and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re taking questions from Wisconsites about voting (:45), safety of hair salons (4:06), holding COVID safe funerals and other gatherings (10:32), close contacts vs. not close contacts (15:45), celebrating homecoming and other outdoor fall gatherings and events (25:01), and disease transmission patterns Read more…
Is it true that Sweden has gotten to herd immunity without lockdown? Should we all be doing what they are doing?
Data and Metrics Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
October 3, 2020
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: No, Sweden has not reached herd immunity, nor have they fared well economically or with respect to COVID-19 mortality. Swedes also voluntarily changed behavior more than is frequently assumed. While there has been a fascination with being Sweden during this pandemic, there are many misconceptions about their experience that are worth clearing up: *Myth Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
October 2, 2020
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…