There was a measles case in my area. Do I need to be revaccinated?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Anna Mueller
For most people, the answer is NO, you do not need to be revaccinated. The measles vaccine is given in a two-shot series. The first one at 12-16 months and the second at 4-6 years. If you got BOTH doses, you are well protected. However, there are a few specific groups of people who might Read more…
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family? 🤔 Have you heard about the recent meningitis outbreak in the UK? Here’s what you need to know. TL;DR: A recent outbreak of bacterial meningitis in the UK, linked to a Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Beyond Immunity: Can mRNA vaccines improve immunotherapy in cancer patients?
Treatments Vaccines
Jamie Fornsaglio, PhD
Researchers have found that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines prime certain cancers to a cancer treatment known as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy! Within 100 days of starting immunotherapy, people with advanced cancer who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines survived nearly twice as long as those who did not receive the shot (approximately 37 months versus 21 months). Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
The Hepatitis B birth dose is no longer recommended by the CDC. This is why your baby (or you) should get it anyway.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Hepatitis B (HepB) is an infection of the liver that can lead to chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment and an increased risk of cancer and death. The HepB vaccine has minimal risks and many benefits. Skipping the birth dose leaves infants vulnerable to a lifelong risk of chronic liver disease and cancer. This is why Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu shot
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
For most people, the answer is NO, you do not need to be revaccinated. The measles vaccine is given in a two-shot series. The first one at 12-16 months and the second at 4-6 years. If you got BOTH doses, you are well protected. However, there are a few specific groups of people who might Read more…
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family? 🤔 Have you heard about the recent meningitis outbreak in the UK? Here’s what you need to know. TL;DR: A recent outbreak of bacterial meningitis in the UK, linked to a Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Beyond Immunity: Can mRNA vaccines improve immunotherapy in cancer patients?
Treatments Vaccines
Jamie Fornsaglio, PhD
Researchers have found that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines prime certain cancers to a cancer treatment known as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy! Within 100 days of starting immunotherapy, people with advanced cancer who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines survived nearly twice as long as those who did not receive the shot (approximately 37 months versus 21 months). Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
The Hepatitis B birth dose is no longer recommended by the CDC. This is why your baby (or you) should get it anyway.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Hepatitis B (HepB) is an infection of the liver that can lead to chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment and an increased risk of cancer and death. The HepB vaccine has minimal risks and many benefits. Skipping the birth dose leaves infants vulnerable to a lifelong risk of chronic liver disease and cancer. This is why Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu shot
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Beyond Immunity: Can mRNA vaccines improve immunotherapy in cancer patients?
Treatments Vaccines
Jamie Fornsaglio, PhD
Researchers have found that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines prime certain cancers to a cancer treatment known as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy! Within 100 days of starting immunotherapy, people with advanced cancer who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines survived nearly twice as long as those who did not receive the shot (approximately 37 months versus 21 months). Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
The Hepatitis B birth dose is no longer recommended by the CDC. This is why your baby (or you) should get it anyway.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Hepatitis B (HepB) is an infection of the liver that can lead to chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment and an increased risk of cancer and death. The HepB vaccine has minimal risks and many benefits. Skipping the birth dose leaves infants vulnerable to a lifelong risk of chronic liver disease and cancer. This is why Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu shot
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe VaccinesAnna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Beyond Immunity: Can mRNA vaccines improve immunotherapy in cancer patients?
Treatments Vaccines
Jamie Fornsaglio, PhD
Researchers have found that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines prime certain cancers to a cancer treatment known as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy! Within 100 days of starting immunotherapy, people with advanced cancer who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines survived nearly twice as long as those who did not receive the shot (approximately 37 months versus 21 months). Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
The Hepatitis B birth dose is no longer recommended by the CDC. This is why your baby (or you) should get it anyway.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Hepatitis B (HepB) is an infection of the liver that can lead to chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment and an increased risk of cancer and death. The HepB vaccine has minimal risks and many benefits. Skipping the birth dose leaves infants vulnerable to a lifelong risk of chronic liver disease and cancer. This is why Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu shot
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMeasles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Beyond Immunity: Can mRNA vaccines improve immunotherapy in cancer patients?
Treatments VaccinesJamie Fornsaglio, PhD
Researchers have found that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines prime certain cancers to a cancer treatment known as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy! Within 100 days of starting immunotherapy, people with advanced cancer who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines survived nearly twice as long as those who did not receive the shot (approximately 37 months versus 21 months). Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
The Hepatitis B birth dose is no longer recommended by the CDC. This is why your baby (or you) should get it anyway.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Hepatitis B (HepB) is an infection of the liver that can lead to chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment and an increased risk of cancer and death. The HepB vaccine has minimal risks and many benefits. Skipping the birth dose leaves infants vulnerable to a lifelong risk of chronic liver disease and cancer. This is why Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu shot
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Researchers have found that mRNA COVID-19 vaccines prime certain cancers to a cancer treatment known as immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy! Within 100 days of starting immunotherapy, people with advanced cancer who received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines survived nearly twice as long as those who did not receive the shot (approximately 37 months versus 21 months). Read more…
What’s going on with this U.S. childhood vaccine schedule change?
Health Policy Vaccines
The U.S. federal government recently announced big changes to the childhood vaccine schedule. It is reducing the number of vaccines “routinely” recommended for all kids and moving several vaccines into an “optional/shared decision” category instead. This means they’re only routinely recommending protection against 11 diseases, instead of 17. Those Nerdy Girls and many other public Read more…
The Hepatitis B birth dose is no longer recommended by the CDC. This is why your baby (or you) should get it anyway.
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Hepatitis B (HepB) is an infection of the liver that can lead to chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment and an increased risk of cancer and death. The HepB vaccine has minimal risks and many benefits. Skipping the birth dose leaves infants vulnerable to a lifelong risk of chronic liver disease and cancer. This is why Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu shot
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Hepatitis B (HepB) is an infection of the liver that can lead to chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment and an increased risk of cancer and death. The HepB vaccine has minimal risks and many benefits. Skipping the birth dose leaves infants vulnerable to a lifelong risk of chronic liver disease and cancer. This is why Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu shot
Infectious Diseases VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
TL:DR: The flu season can linger through May, so it’s not too late to get your vaccine. If you already had the flu, the shot can still reduce your risk of catching one of the other strains (the “tri-valent” vaccine covers three). This year’s flu vaccine reduces risk of severe disease, even against the new Read more…
What exactly are ethics, and how important are they in human medical research?
Health Policy Treatments VaccinesSandy Laping, MSc
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Those Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Ethics are a set of principles that help us figure out what’s right and wrong. In medical research, they help to keep the people taking part safe, make sure the research does more good than harm, and ensure the results can be trusted. Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original Read more…
This is your nerdy reminder that it’s time for your flu shot.
Infectious Diseases VaccinesThose Nerdy Girls
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older (with very few exceptions). To learn more, head to our latest flu shot posts 👇: https://thosenerdygirls.org/flu-shot-25/ https://thosenerdygirls.org/busting-flu-shot-myths-2/ Big picture: Getting the flu shot is an effective way to keep people from getting the flu as well as reduce illness severity, hospitalization, and death. If you Read more…
What do vaccination and umbrellas have in common?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSandy Laping, MSc
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Community immunity (aka “herd immunity”) is a really important factor in preventing the spread of infectious diseases… and just like an umbrella can protect you and the person standing next to you from the rain, vaccination can do the same. Did you know? The term herd immunity was first used when British scientists back in Read more…
Q and A on shingles – part 2
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosThose Nerdy Girls
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Part 2 of “Answers to Some of Your Nerdy Questions on the Shingles Vaccine.” Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults Read more…
Q and A on shingles
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosThose Nerdy Girls
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases Vaccines
The fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Shingles is an extremely painful disease caused by the reawakening of the Varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Fortunately, there is a shingles vaccine that significantly reduces your chance of getting shingles. The vaccine is recommended for all adults over 50. This includes people who had chickenpox, the chickenpox vaccine, an older Zostavax Read more…
There is so much information about who can and can’t get the COVID vaccine this fall. Can you clear things up?
Hot Health Topics Infectious Diseases VaccinesThe fall COVID vaccines received FDA approval recently, but had significant changes to who can get them. These changes mean that the COVID-19 vaccines may be harder to access this year than in the past. But their importance has not changed, nor has the science that supports their effectiveness. If you have the ability, you Read more…
Why do we give newborn babies the Hepatitis B vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines VideosThose Nerdy Girls
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
🙋♀️🙋♂️Parents often wonder why we recommend giving the hepatitis B vaccine to brand-new babies before they even go home from the hospital. They may think, “Isn’t hepatitis B a sexually transmitted infection? Why would my baby need that?” Great question! 💡 The hepatitis B vaccine is an important tool to protect infants and children from Read more…
Busting Flu Shot Myths!
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. Time to break some of them down and set the record straight! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original written on September 29, 2022. Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations Read more…
Should I get the flu shot this year?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Tl;Dr: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, updates about the flu vaccine, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! NOTE: This post was updated Read more…
August is National Immunization Awareness Month.
Infectious Diseases VaccinesCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls trust vaccines and are taking a moment to celebrate them in August, since it is National Immunization Awareness Month. [Based on an original post by Nerdy Girl Megan Madsen written in August 2023.] At Those Nerdy Girls, we argue that no breakthrough has been more important in keeping us healthy than the Read more…
