Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
3rd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Immunocompromised in US
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
3rd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Immunocompromised in US
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
3rd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Immunocompromised in US
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
3rd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Immunocompromised in US
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
VaccinesVerdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
3rd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Immunocompromised in US
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
3rd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Immunocompromised in US
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
3rd Dose of COVID-19 Vaccine Authorized for Immunocompromised in US
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
💥BREAKING💥: 3rd dose COVID-19 vaccine authorization & recommendation for immunocompromised in the U.S. Yesterday (August 12th,) the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized an additional dose of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines for certain immunocompromised individuals ages 12+. Today (August 13th) the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) also voted to recommend these Read more…
Should I lie to get my not-yet-12-year-old vaccinated before school starts?
Families/Kids VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
A: No. This is a bad idea for a few reasons, which I’ll get to below. But first I want to offer some solidarity. As the parent of an 11-year-old looking at the start of 6th grade in just 3 weeks, I feel you. I know exactly how you arrived at this question. I also Read more…
Will the COVID-19 vaccines encourage the emergence of new variants or immune evasion?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
A: No. Vaccines REDUCE opportunities for viral replication needed for variants to emerge. ➡️ TL;DR: The virus has more opportunity to replicate in unvaccinated populations, creating a FAR bigger risk for the development of SARS-CoV-2 mutations. Even so, the good news is that the emergence of variants that fully evade vaccine induced immunity is considered Read more…
Pandemic Heroines in the Kids’ Vaccine Trials
Families/Kids Vaccines Women in STEMMalia Jones, PhD MPH
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
As we prepare for yet another back-to-school season amid massive pandemic uncertainty, all of us parents are anxiously awaiting the results of those kids’ vaccine trials. WHEN WHEN WHEN?? Well, there’s no news on that front. But while we wait, let’s honor the little (and big) heroines and heroes of those trials. Parents are taking Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause Guillain-Barré syndrome?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
A: The Janssen vaccine may increase the risk of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), but we don’t yet know for sure. Even if it does, the risk of GBS is extremely small. Currently, there is no evidence that the mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer or Moderna) increase the risk of GBS. Guillain-Barré Syndrome is a neurological disorder that Read more…
How does natural immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection differ from immunity generated by COVID-19 vaccines?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
A. COVID-19 vaccines induce higher levels and a broader range of neutralizing antibodies to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein than does natural infection. Vaccine-induced antibodies are less likely to be affected by changes in the RBD seen in the current SARS-CoV-2 variants, and are therefore more likely to be more effective Read more…
