What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
I’ve heard that I should wear a mask to protect others. Will it also protect me?
Masks Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: YES! As the Nerdy Girls like to reiterate, risk reduction is not all or nothing. While masks have been encouraged as “source control”- a way of blocking outbound aerosols and droplets as you breathe, speak, sneeze or cough, accumulating evidence suggests that they can provide important protection to the wearer as well. See our Read more…
With cases rising again around the US, is the concept of a “pod” or “bubble” of connected households still reasonable?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Yes, but…it’s a good time to make sure your bubble hasn’t gotten so big it is about to burst, and check for any holes you need to patch to avoid COVID-19 leaking in! In fact, if you never bubbled in the first place, this may be the perfect time to scale back your interactions Read more…
Do I still need to wipe off my groceries?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and MisinformationMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Good news: you can stop wiping your groceries down with bleach. While you’re at it, you can stop quarantining your mail and Amazon boxes. As it turns out, you’re much more likely to fall ill from inhaling something that came straight out of the mouth or nose of the person standing next to you Read more…
What protective gear do I REALLY need?
Masks Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Masks? CHECK. Gloves? Probably not. Goggles and/or face shields? More complicated. This week Team Nerdy Girls has received many questions about protective gear for everyday living – and have been steadfastly sourcing good information on the topic. We’re happy to share that Consumer Reports has recently written a terrific guide about “gearing up” for Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Uncertainty and MisinformationAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
Edited on 7/24/2020: Thank you to one of our followers for bringing it to our attention that at least some of the reports of COVID parties were later debunked. We are leaving the post up with a note, because the main message is legit. Please, for the love of peanut butter and jelly, do not Read more…
How might we use information from studies of Covid-19 outbreaks in nursing homes and summer camps to inform the reopening of schools?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread School Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Let’s consider nursing homes and summer camps. While these environments are different from schools for a host of reasons, the knowledge gained from these settings does inform the critical decisions being made about educating children in the fall. A recent study of Covid-19 spread in nursing homes led by Dr. Elizabeth White found that Read more…
Can I wear a Face Shield by itself?
Masks Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: NOT RECOMMENDED. As more businesses open up, we’re aware of reports of employees wearing ONLY Face Shields/Visors for protection (for example many hairdressers in the UK). This approach is NOT recommended. While face shields provide some additional protection to the wearer, especially for the eyes, they should be used as a complement to face Read more…
Dang it’s hot. Is it unsafe to spend time in places with air conditioning?
Socializing Staying SafeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A. It’s all about air flow! Most air conditioner systems primarily recirculate indoor air without introducing that much air from the outside. Unfortunately, if viral particles are already inside the air-conditioned space, the particles continue to be recirculated, potentially infecting others. One of the early case studies about air conditioning investigated an air-conditioned windowless restaurant Read more…
Do you have any other tips to help kids get used to wearing masks?
Masks Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: We get it, many of us have young children and are actively working on mask use with them as well! We previously posted some useful ideas for encouraging kids to wear masks and a video for kids by the fabulous Nerdy Girl, Dr. Aparna Kumar, explaining how and why they should wear them and we Read more…
Will a gaiter protect me from coronavirus?
Masks Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Let’s discuss. The gaiters we are referring to are facial coverings that go around your neck and extend from above your nose down your neck. They are commonly used to protect against the sun, inhalation of dust, or during very cold outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and skiing. Gaiters, to our knowledge, were not Read more…
Do masks work?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Signs point to YES! As we’ve been heard to say, “absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.” While our gold standard randomized controlled trials are not very practical for testing the efficacy of masks during a pandemic (how would YOU like to be in that placebo group?!), accumulating evidence from different types of Read more…
With so much talk about schools and reopening, what factors are important to consider when weighing risks/benefits of doing so?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
As nerdy girls, parents, and educators, we want so much to have clarity around school reopening. But, we just don’t yet know everything we need to know (and may not in 6 weeks!). So our best offering to you, our dear followers, is to share our ideas about how to assess the issue. We hope Read more…
I’m still confused about the “Is the virus airborne?” debate. Practical take-aways, please.
Infection and Spread Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Individuals: Avoid poorly ventilated, crowded indoor spaces to the extent possible. Building owners/tenants: Beef up air filtration, especially in older buildings. Background: A very loud squabble emerged last week around the classification of SARS-CoV-2 in the scientific taxonomy. Nerdy Girl Alison wrote a wonderful post walking through the science discussing what an “airborne” classification Read more…
Doctors discuss COVID-19 and what they have learned
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
Drs. Vineet Arora and Eve Bloomgarden, MDs and co-founders of IMPACT, discuss what they’ve learned these last few months about how COVID-19 impacts physicians and patients with Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD. Link to original FB post
How do I choose the best face mask?
Infection and Spread Masks Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Awesome job wearing a mask! We know it’s a new habit and not always comfortable. Masks are effective in trapping droplets capable of spreading Covid-19. If we all wear one, we can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Step one is committing to mask wearing. They all provide some level of protection. Step Read more…
What steps should families who want to visit relatives who are older and/or more vulnerable to complications of COVID-19 take to protect their loved ones?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe TravelAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: We all miss our families (yes, us too!) and while navigating how to keep loved ones safe can feel overwhelming, the Nerdy Girls are here to help you make the best decisions possible based on the best information available! Luckily there are some key things (as highlighted in the NPR article below) you can Read more…
Talk to me about going to the dentist.
Infection and Spread Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
A: Here are a few factors to consider: (1) Your individual risk/benefit tradeoff; (2) The amount of circulating disease in your community; (3) The dentist’s infection control protocols. Heading back to the dentist safely is top of mind for the Nerdy Girls, as several of us have logged some serious time in the dental chair Read more…
