Talk to me about masks and outdoor exercise.
Masks Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Do I really need to wear one? Will it affect my ability to exercise? A. First off, we are SO happy to hear how many people have taken up exercising outdoors!! Running, biking, walking, or any other form of physical activity is important to maintain (or start up!) especially during these pandemic times. Exercise Read more…
Throwback Thursday All About Masks
Masks Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
For this, our first-ever #ThrowbackThursday post, Dear Pandemic is pleased to present: every single thing we’ve ever posted about #masks (and a few things we haven’t posted before). Q: Should I wear a mask? A: Yes. A thorough review of the evidence of physical distancing, face coverings, and eye coverings as prevention strategies for COVID-19 Read more…
How can I get my younger child/sibling to wear a mask?
Families/Kids Masks Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: With lots of encouragement! The Nerdy Girls have talked a lot about kids and transmission risks. And we hope that as more data comes out, we will know more about transmission dynamics in children. A few updated links here: NPR Stat News In the meantime, many states require that children wear masks. We continue Read more…
Do face shields work? Are face shields better than masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Great question! Most media attention around personal protective equipment has focused on the use of masks. We’re here to report: Face shields are protective too! Face shields create a transparent rigid plastic barrier that covers the entire face from ear to ear and from forehead to the bottom of the chin (the more they Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
Should I still be wearing a mask when I am out of my home in the presence of other people?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes! You should wear the mask. A recent systematic review published in The Lancet examined the reduction in viral transmission with physical distancing and when wearing a mask. The rigorous study design summarizes existing evidence of 172 observational studies by grading the quality of each study and compiling the results. The findings of this Read more…
What’s your take on the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences claiming that mandatory face coverings changed the course of the pandemic?
Masks Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
Masks
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
Q: Do I really need to wear one? Will it affect my ability to exercise? A. First off, we are SO happy to hear how many people have taken up exercising outdoors!! Running, biking, walking, or any other form of physical activity is important to maintain (or start up!) especially during these pandemic times. Exercise Read more…
Throwback Thursday All About Masks
Masks Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
For this, our first-ever #ThrowbackThursday post, Dear Pandemic is pleased to present: every single thing we’ve ever posted about #masks (and a few things we haven’t posted before). Q: Should I wear a mask? A: Yes. A thorough review of the evidence of physical distancing, face coverings, and eye coverings as prevention strategies for COVID-19 Read more…
How can I get my younger child/sibling to wear a mask?
Families/Kids Masks Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: With lots of encouragement! The Nerdy Girls have talked a lot about kids and transmission risks. And we hope that as more data comes out, we will know more about transmission dynamics in children. A few updated links here: NPR Stat News In the meantime, many states require that children wear masks. We continue Read more…
Do face shields work? Are face shields better than masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Great question! Most media attention around personal protective equipment has focused on the use of masks. We’re here to report: Face shields are protective too! Face shields create a transparent rigid plastic barrier that covers the entire face from ear to ear and from forehead to the bottom of the chin (the more they Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
Should I still be wearing a mask when I am out of my home in the presence of other people?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes! You should wear the mask. A recent systematic review published in The Lancet examined the reduction in viral transmission with physical distancing and when wearing a mask. The rigorous study design summarizes existing evidence of 172 observational studies by grading the quality of each study and compiling the results. The findings of this Read more…
What’s your take on the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences claiming that mandatory face coverings changed the course of the pandemic?
Masks Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
Masks
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
For this, our first-ever #ThrowbackThursday post, Dear Pandemic is pleased to present: every single thing we’ve ever posted about #masks (and a few things we haven’t posted before). Q: Should I wear a mask? A: Yes. A thorough review of the evidence of physical distancing, face coverings, and eye coverings as prevention strategies for COVID-19 Read more…
How can I get my younger child/sibling to wear a mask?
Families/Kids Masks Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: With lots of encouragement! The Nerdy Girls have talked a lot about kids and transmission risks. And we hope that as more data comes out, we will know more about transmission dynamics in children. A few updated links here: NPR Stat News In the meantime, many states require that children wear masks. We continue Read more…
Do face shields work? Are face shields better than masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Great question! Most media attention around personal protective equipment has focused on the use of masks. We’re here to report: Face shields are protective too! Face shields create a transparent rigid plastic barrier that covers the entire face from ear to ear and from forehead to the bottom of the chin (the more they Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
Should I still be wearing a mask when I am out of my home in the presence of other people?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes! You should wear the mask. A recent systematic review published in The Lancet examined the reduction in viral transmission with physical distancing and when wearing a mask. The rigorous study design summarizes existing evidence of 172 observational studies by grading the quality of each study and compiling the results. The findings of this Read more…
What’s your take on the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences claiming that mandatory face coverings changed the course of the pandemic?
Masks Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
Masks
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: With lots of encouragement! The Nerdy Girls have talked a lot about kids and transmission risks. And we hope that as more data comes out, we will know more about transmission dynamics in children. A few updated links here: NPR Stat News In the meantime, many states require that children wear masks. We continue Read more…
Do face shields work? Are face shields better than masks?
Masks Staying SafeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Great question! Most media attention around personal protective equipment has focused on the use of masks. We’re here to report: Face shields are protective too! Face shields create a transparent rigid plastic barrier that covers the entire face from ear to ear and from forehead to the bottom of the chin (the more they Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
Should I still be wearing a mask when I am out of my home in the presence of other people?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes! You should wear the mask. A recent systematic review published in The Lancet examined the reduction in viral transmission with physical distancing and when wearing a mask. The rigorous study design summarizes existing evidence of 172 observational studies by grading the quality of each study and compiling the results. The findings of this Read more…
What’s your take on the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences claiming that mandatory face coverings changed the course of the pandemic?
Masks Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
Masks
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: Great question! Most media attention around personal protective equipment has focused on the use of masks. We’re here to report: Face shields are protective too! Face shields create a transparent rigid plastic barrier that covers the entire face from ear to ear and from forehead to the bottom of the chin (the more they Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
Should I still be wearing a mask when I am out of my home in the presence of other people?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes! You should wear the mask. A recent systematic review published in The Lancet examined the reduction in viral transmission with physical distancing and when wearing a mask. The rigorous study design summarizes existing evidence of 172 observational studies by grading the quality of each study and compiling the results. The findings of this Read more…
What’s your take on the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences claiming that mandatory face coverings changed the course of the pandemic?
Masks Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
Masks
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
Should I still be wearing a mask when I am out of my home in the presence of other people?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes! You should wear the mask. A recent systematic review published in The Lancet examined the reduction in viral transmission with physical distancing and when wearing a mask. The rigorous study design summarizes existing evidence of 172 observational studies by grading the quality of each study and compiling the results. The findings of this Read more…
What’s your take on the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences claiming that mandatory face coverings changed the course of the pandemic?
Masks Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
Masks
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: Yes! You should wear the mask. A recent systematic review published in The Lancet examined the reduction in viral transmission with physical distancing and when wearing a mask. The rigorous study design summarizes existing evidence of 172 observational studies by grading the quality of each study and compiling the results. The findings of this Read more…
What’s your take on the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences claiming that mandatory face coverings changed the course of the pandemic?
Masks Staying SafeAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
Masks
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
Link to study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences A: Based on all of the available evidence, we are wearing our masks and strongly encourage others to do so. Sadly, this study is a HOT MESS… How can this be? The *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,* that’s a serious journal, Read more…
I’m afraid of wearing a mask because I heard it reduces oxygen intake and forces people to breathe in their own carbon dioxide. Is this true?
MasksSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A. Short answer: Not really. Long answer: Inhaling *high* levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) (also called hypercapnia, or CO2 toxicity) can in fact cause health issues like headache, dizziness, confusion, and even suffocation. But the key word is *high.* Few people are actually at risk of hypercapnia, whether they wear masks or not. Conditions like Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks UncategorizedAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
How do I prevent my glasses from fogging up when I wear a mask?
MasksLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: Experiment with a pipe cleaner, glasses placement, and/or soapy water to see what works for you! The New York Times has a helpful article detailing potential ways to ward off the super annoying “glasses fog” that often accompanies mask wearing. (FYI, this Nerdy Girl finds the best luck by pulling a mask way up Read more…
All I have is a homemade mask. What can I do to increase its effectiveness?
Masks Staying SafeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
Masks
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: The CDC offers a number of evidence guidelines about cloth face coverings. Here are a few hot tips: Be sure not to touch the outside of the mask when you put it on and take it off (hold it by the straps). And continue washing your hands regularly. Be sure to wash cloth masks Read more…
What is the correct way to wear a cloth mask?
MasksAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
Masks
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: CDC recommends your cloth mask: -fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face -be secured with ties or ear loops -include multiple layers of fabric -allow for breathing without restriction -be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape Most importantly, cloth masks are to be worn Read more…
MASK FAQs: Here’s some science behind the changing recommendations for wearing face masks in public
MasksAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
Should everyone wear a mask in public? – Guidelines continue to change locally and nationally. We will continue to follow these updates with you. For now, consider wearing a mask in public if: 1) you are at high risk for complications from the virus, 2) there are high infection rates in your area, 3) you Read more…
Should we all be wearing masks?
Infection and Spread MasksLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
A: “Asking eight health authorities will elicit eight different answers.” There’s been much buzz in recent days about whether or not the general public should be wearing masks. These two articles provide a nice review of the evidence. (The quote above is from the Quartz article) Key take-aways: (1) Where the evidence is absolutely clear: Read more…
