My kid recently had a rash on his hands, and my doctor told me it was hand foot and mouth disease. Can you tell us about it?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Hand foot and mouth disease is another one of those pesky viral rashes. While it is extremely common and is highly contagious, fortunately it usually causes only mild disease. ✋🦶🏽👄 What causes hand foot and mouth disease? Hand foot and mouth, or HFM is a disease caused by a virus that is very common among Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
What is rabies and how can I protect myself?
Infectious Diseases Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself. Watch this video from Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer for all the details. This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes You can also read Cindy’s full post here. 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! Hepatitis B [archived link] is a dangerous virus that can cause long-term health consequences such Read more…
HPV, the Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infection: What It Is, How It Spreads, and What It Means if You Test Positive
General Health Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
🔶What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most people who get HPV clear the virus on their own within two years and don’t have symptoms – but because some types can lead to cancer or genital warts, it’s helpful for everyone to know about HPV prevention and treatment. Read more…
What are the current COVID vaccine recommendations and how have they changed?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Hand foot and mouth disease is another one of those pesky viral rashes. While it is extremely common and is highly contagious, fortunately it usually causes only mild disease. ✋🦶🏽👄 What causes hand foot and mouth disease? Hand foot and mouth, or HFM is a disease caused by a virus that is very common among Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
What is rabies and how can I protect myself?
Infectious Diseases Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself. Watch this video from Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer for all the details. This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes You can also read Cindy’s full post here. 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! Hepatitis B [archived link] is a dangerous virus that can cause long-term health consequences such Read more…
HPV, the Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infection: What It Is, How It Spreads, and What It Means if You Test Positive
General Health Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
🔶What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most people who get HPV clear the virus on their own within two years and don’t have symptoms – but because some types can lead to cancer or genital warts, it’s helpful for everyone to know about HPV prevention and treatment. Read more…
What are the current COVID vaccine recommendations and how have they changed?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases VaccinesCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
What is rabies and how can I protect myself?
Infectious Diseases Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself. Watch this video from Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer for all the details. This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes You can also read Cindy’s full post here. 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! Hepatitis B [archived link] is a dangerous virus that can cause long-term health consequences such Read more…
HPV, the Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infection: What It Is, How It Spreads, and What It Means if You Test Positive
General Health Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
🔶What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most people who get HPV clear the virus on their own within two years and don’t have symptoms – but because some types can lead to cancer or genital warts, it’s helpful for everyone to know about HPV prevention and treatment. Read more…
What are the current COVID vaccine recommendations and how have they changed?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
What is rabies and how can I protect myself?
Infectious Diseases VideosCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself. Watch this video from Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer for all the details. This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes You can also read Cindy’s full post here. 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! Hepatitis B [archived link] is a dangerous virus that can cause long-term health consequences such Read more…
HPV, the Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infection: What It Is, How It Spreads, and What It Means if You Test Positive
General Health Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
🔶What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most people who get HPV clear the virus on their own within two years and don’t have symptoms – but because some types can lead to cancer or genital warts, it’s helpful for everyone to know about HPV prevention and treatment. Read more…
What are the current COVID vaccine recommendations and how have they changed?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself. Watch this video from Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer for all the details. This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes You can also read Cindy’s full post here. 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! Hepatitis B [archived link] is a dangerous virus that can cause long-term health consequences such Read more…
HPV, the Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infection: What It Is, How It Spreads, and What It Means if You Test Positive
General Health Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
🔶What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most people who get HPV clear the virus on their own within two years and don’t have symptoms – but because some types can lead to cancer or genital warts, it’s helpful for everyone to know about HPV prevention and treatment. Read more…
What are the current COVID vaccine recommendations and how have they changed?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! Hepatitis B [archived link] is a dangerous virus that can cause long-term health consequences such Read more…
HPV, the Most Common Sexually Transmitted Infection: What It Is, How It Spreads, and What It Means if You Test Positive
General Health Infectious Diseases Reproductive HealthIlana Gerjuoy, MPH
🔶What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most people who get HPV clear the virus on their own within two years and don’t have symptoms – but because some types can lead to cancer or genital warts, it’s helpful for everyone to know about HPV prevention and treatment. Read more…
What are the current COVID vaccine recommendations and how have they changed?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
🔶What is HPV? HPV (human papillomavirus) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Most people who get HPV clear the virus on their own within two years and don’t have symptoms – but because some types can lead to cancer or genital warts, it’s helpful for everyone to know about HPV prevention and treatment. Read more…
What are the current COVID vaccine recommendations and how have they changed?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) talks about the current COVID recommendations and how they have changed for fall 2025. Read the full post here: https://thosenerdygirls.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-recommendations-for This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us Read more…
Someone I know recently had a bat in their house and mentioned rabies. I was wondering, what is rabies?
Infectious DiseasesCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Rabies is a rare but deadly infectious disease. The good news is that you can protect yourself by getting your pets vaccinated, and if you or a loved one gets exposed, you can get a treatment called post-exposure prophylaxis…but you have to act fast. TL;DR Rabies cases are on the rise in some places. Understanding Read more…
What COVID vaccines will be available this fall to protect you and your family?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (@immunominutes) updates us on what COVID vaccines will be available in the fall of 2025. Read the full post here This is a collaborative video between @thosenerdygirls & @immunominutes 🤓 Those Nerdy Girls want to help you stay on the frontline of science and health information. ✨ Follow us on Read more…
Why is the Tdap vaccine important in pregnancy?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesRebecca Raskin-Wish
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious Diseases
Those Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
TL;DR: Tdap is a booster vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. A booster shot is an extra shot that keeps your immunity up. Guidelines suggest getting a booster every ten years. Getting a booster while pregnant can help protect your baby from pertussis, commonly called whooping cough, which can be deadly to babies. Tdap is Read more…
Let’s talk about Lyme disease.
Infectious DiseasesThose Nerdy Girls
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
This post has been updated from the original written by a Nerdy Girl Alumna in July 2021. It’s summer. You’re hiking, you’re camping, you’re living your best summer life. So let’s talk about Lyme disease. Lyme disease comes from a bacterial infection transmitted via the bite of certain ticks, most especially the black-legged tick aka Read more…
COVID vaccine recommendations for fall 2025
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases VaccinesCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
With a new COVID variant spreading and changing vaccine recommendations, many people want to know if they can, or should, get a COVID booster. Talk to your clinician or pharmacist today about what you can do to protect you and your loved ones. At the end of May, the current HHS secretary announced, on a Read more…
Wait, there is more than one type of measles?
Infectious DiseasesCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
You probably know there is an ongoing outbreak of measles in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but did you know that there are several different diseases with “measles” in their everyday name? The disease “measles” is caused by a virus. A virus is a tiny particle stuffed with its own instruction booklet on how Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S. as of May?
Hot Health Topics Infectious DiseasesCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
We have now surpassed 1000 cases of measles in the US. How can we control the outbreak? Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday May 23, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday at noon) ➡️ There are now more than 1000 cases of measles across the US. ⬆️ Read more…
Are there more cases of whooping cough than normal?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious Diseases
Measles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Elisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
So far in 2025, there have been over 4 times as many cases of whooping cough compared to this time last year. So yes, cases are up. Now is a good time to make sure you are up-to-date on this vaccine. In the 5 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were about 15,000-20,000 cases Read more…
What’s happening with measles in the U.S.?
Infectious DiseasesMeasles cases continue to rise across the U.S., with most cases occurring in Texas. Vaccination is highly effective and the best way to protect yourself. Update on numbers Confirmed cases are correct as of Friday April 4, 2025 (Note that the CDC updates their numbers on Friday afternoons) Reported cases for Texas are correct as Read more…
We anticipate having updated flu vaccines for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Infectious Diseases VaccinesElisabeth Adkins Marnik, PhD
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Recently, there was some concern that we may not have an updated flu vaccine for next season. Luckily, the FDA has announced the strains that will be included in the 25-26 flu vaccine. Every year, we get new versions of the influenza (flu) vaccines. This is because influenza viruses can change very quickly from year Read more…
How can I protect myself from measles?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSandy Laping
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
Vaccination is the safest option to protect yourself and your loved ones from measles. Even if you are unsure if you have natural immunity, have been vaccinated before or can’t be vaccinated, there may be options for you. Vaccination recommendations for the U.S.* (*if you live outside the U.S. recommendations might be different, so please Read more…
Should I be worried about coronavirus HKU-5?
COVID Variants Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe
Although dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
HKU5 coronavirus is unlikely to lead to a pandemic, but to prevent future coronavirus pandemics it is important to support scientific research, emerging disease surveillance, and vaccine and medication development. Main points: HKU5-CoV-2 did not infect laboratory cells under controlled conditions as well as the virus that causes COVID-19 Current antivirals and monoclonal antibodies inhibited Read more…
Bird Flu Update – March 2025
Infectious Diseases Staying SafeAlthough dairy cattle and poultry continue to get infected and there are several more human cases, the risk to the general public is still low. This information is correct as of March 10, 2025, 6:00 PM EDT. Avian influenza, more commonly called bird flu, continues to infect poultry and dairy cattle in the United States. Read more…
