Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic’s contributors Drs. Michelle Kinder, Aparna Kumar, and Malia Jones will be taking questions submitted by kids on this weeks’ Live event! We’ll be talking about bats, masks, nanometers, and so much more. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and our kids’ Favorite Books (0:00-2:42) ➡️ Greta from Camp Hill, PA asks: Why do you need the Read more…
April 30, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: There is no scientific evidence to suggest COVID-19 vaccines negatively impact fertility in men or women. While these vaccines were not tested among pregnant people for initial FDA Emergency Use Authorization in the United States, accumulating data support the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in people who wish to become pregnant and people who are Read more…
April 29, 2021
Is it normal to have pain in my armpit or breast after the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Very possible and normal, specifically on the side you received the vaccination. Throughout your body, hundreds of lymph nodes work to filter your lymphatic fluid. When your body is mounting an immune response, after an infection or a vaccine, lymph nodes can swell with fluid. Lymph nodes are located all over our bodies, with Read more…
April 28, 2021
What is the new guidance for wearing masks outdoors, particularly if we are vaccinated?
Masks Staying Safe Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Vaccinated people in the United States (US) only need to wear a mask outdoors in crowded settings (think sporting events, parades, and concerts). In other words, being vaccinated means you can get back to nearly normal outdoor activities just as the weather is warming up! Yeah!! TL;DR The new guidelines for mask use in Read more…
April 28, 2021
What is going on with J&J COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Johnson & Johnson was granted emergency authorization use (EAU) by the FDA for a vaccine against COVID-19 in late February. After receiving reports of a rare life-threatening blood clot condition occurring primarily in women under 50 within three weeks of getting this vaccine, CDC paused the use of the vaccine for 10 days. A Read more…
April 27, 2021
What about vaccines being used in developing countries?
Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Could you explain more about the vaccines being used in developing countries? Are these countries getting inferior vaccines? A. For a long time, very little was known about many of the vaccines in wide use outside the U.S., especially the ones from China like CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and CanSino, and the vaccine from Russia, Sputnik Read more…
April 27, 2021
If the most vulnerable are now protected due to the vaccine, why can’t we go back to normal life?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
April 24, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
Dear Pandemic’s contributors Drs. Michelle Kinder, Aparna Kumar, and Malia Jones will be taking questions submitted by kids on this weeks’ Live event! We’ll be talking about bats, masks, nanometers, and so much more. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and our kids’ Favorite Books (0:00-2:42) ➡️ Greta from Camp Hill, PA asks: Why do you need the Read more…
Do the COVID-19 vaccines cause infertility?
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: There is no scientific evidence to suggest COVID-19 vaccines negatively impact fertility in men or women. While these vaccines were not tested among pregnant people for initial FDA Emergency Use Authorization in the United States, accumulating data support the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in people who wish to become pregnant and people who are Read more…
April 29, 2021
Is it normal to have pain in my armpit or breast after the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Very possible and normal, specifically on the side you received the vaccination. Throughout your body, hundreds of lymph nodes work to filter your lymphatic fluid. When your body is mounting an immune response, after an infection or a vaccine, lymph nodes can swell with fluid. Lymph nodes are located all over our bodies, with Read more…
April 28, 2021
What is the new guidance for wearing masks outdoors, particularly if we are vaccinated?
Masks Staying Safe Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Vaccinated people in the United States (US) only need to wear a mask outdoors in crowded settings (think sporting events, parades, and concerts). In other words, being vaccinated means you can get back to nearly normal outdoor activities just as the weather is warming up! Yeah!! TL;DR The new guidelines for mask use in Read more…
April 28, 2021
What is going on with J&J COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Johnson & Johnson was granted emergency authorization use (EAU) by the FDA for a vaccine against COVID-19 in late February. After receiving reports of a rare life-threatening blood clot condition occurring primarily in women under 50 within three weeks of getting this vaccine, CDC paused the use of the vaccine for 10 days. A Read more…
April 27, 2021
What about vaccines being used in developing countries?
Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Could you explain more about the vaccines being used in developing countries? Are these countries getting inferior vaccines? A. For a long time, very little was known about many of the vaccines in wide use outside the U.S., especially the ones from China like CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and CanSino, and the vaccine from Russia, Sputnik Read more…
April 27, 2021
If the most vulnerable are now protected due to the vaccine, why can’t we go back to normal life?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
April 24, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: There is no scientific evidence to suggest COVID-19 vaccines negatively impact fertility in men or women. While these vaccines were not tested among pregnant people for initial FDA Emergency Use Authorization in the United States, accumulating data support the safety of COVID-19 vaccines in people who wish to become pregnant and people who are Read more…
Is it normal to have pain in my armpit or breast after the COVID-19 vaccine?
VaccinesLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Very possible and normal, specifically on the side you received the vaccination. Throughout your body, hundreds of lymph nodes work to filter your lymphatic fluid. When your body is mounting an immune response, after an infection or a vaccine, lymph nodes can swell with fluid. Lymph nodes are located all over our bodies, with Read more…
April 28, 2021
What is the new guidance for wearing masks outdoors, particularly if we are vaccinated?
Masks Staying Safe Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Vaccinated people in the United States (US) only need to wear a mask outdoors in crowded settings (think sporting events, parades, and concerts). In other words, being vaccinated means you can get back to nearly normal outdoor activities just as the weather is warming up! Yeah!! TL;DR The new guidelines for mask use in Read more…
April 28, 2021
What is going on with J&J COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Johnson & Johnson was granted emergency authorization use (EAU) by the FDA for a vaccine against COVID-19 in late February. After receiving reports of a rare life-threatening blood clot condition occurring primarily in women under 50 within three weeks of getting this vaccine, CDC paused the use of the vaccine for 10 days. A Read more…
April 27, 2021
What about vaccines being used in developing countries?
Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Could you explain more about the vaccines being used in developing countries? Are these countries getting inferior vaccines? A. For a long time, very little was known about many of the vaccines in wide use outside the U.S., especially the ones from China like CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and CanSino, and the vaccine from Russia, Sputnik Read more…
April 27, 2021
If the most vulnerable are now protected due to the vaccine, why can’t we go back to normal life?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
April 24, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: Very possible and normal, specifically on the side you received the vaccination. Throughout your body, hundreds of lymph nodes work to filter your lymphatic fluid. When your body is mounting an immune response, after an infection or a vaccine, lymph nodes can swell with fluid. Lymph nodes are located all over our bodies, with Read more…
What is the new guidance for wearing masks outdoors, particularly if we are vaccinated?
Masks Staying Safe VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Vaccinated people in the United States (US) only need to wear a mask outdoors in crowded settings (think sporting events, parades, and concerts). In other words, being vaccinated means you can get back to nearly normal outdoor activities just as the weather is warming up! Yeah!! TL;DR The new guidelines for mask use in Read more…
April 28, 2021
What is going on with J&J COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Johnson & Johnson was granted emergency authorization use (EAU) by the FDA for a vaccine against COVID-19 in late February. After receiving reports of a rare life-threatening blood clot condition occurring primarily in women under 50 within three weeks of getting this vaccine, CDC paused the use of the vaccine for 10 days. A Read more…
April 27, 2021
What about vaccines being used in developing countries?
Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Could you explain more about the vaccines being used in developing countries? Are these countries getting inferior vaccines? A. For a long time, very little was known about many of the vaccines in wide use outside the U.S., especially the ones from China like CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and CanSino, and the vaccine from Russia, Sputnik Read more…
April 27, 2021
If the most vulnerable are now protected due to the vaccine, why can’t we go back to normal life?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
April 24, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: Vaccinated people in the United States (US) only need to wear a mask outdoors in crowded settings (think sporting events, parades, and concerts). In other words, being vaccinated means you can get back to nearly normal outdoor activities just as the weather is warming up! Yeah!! TL;DR The new guidelines for mask use in Read more…
What is going on with J&J COVID-19 vaccine?
VaccinesVerdena Jennings, DO
A: Johnson & Johnson was granted emergency authorization use (EAU) by the FDA for a vaccine against COVID-19 in late February. After receiving reports of a rare life-threatening blood clot condition occurring primarily in women under 50 within three weeks of getting this vaccine, CDC paused the use of the vaccine for 10 days. A Read more…
April 27, 2021
What about vaccines being used in developing countries?
Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Could you explain more about the vaccines being used in developing countries? Are these countries getting inferior vaccines? A. For a long time, very little was known about many of the vaccines in wide use outside the U.S., especially the ones from China like CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and CanSino, and the vaccine from Russia, Sputnik Read more…
April 27, 2021
If the most vulnerable are now protected due to the vaccine, why can’t we go back to normal life?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
April 24, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: Johnson & Johnson was granted emergency authorization use (EAU) by the FDA for a vaccine against COVID-19 in late February. After receiving reports of a rare life-threatening blood clot condition occurring primarily in women under 50 within three weeks of getting this vaccine, CDC paused the use of the vaccine for 10 days. A Read more…
What about vaccines being used in developing countries?
VaccinesSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Could you explain more about the vaccines being used in developing countries? Are these countries getting inferior vaccines? A. For a long time, very little was known about many of the vaccines in wide use outside the U.S., especially the ones from China like CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and CanSino, and the vaccine from Russia, Sputnik Read more…
April 27, 2021
If the most vulnerable are now protected due to the vaccine, why can’t we go back to normal life?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
April 24, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
Q: Could you explain more about the vaccines being used in developing countries? Are these countries getting inferior vaccines? A. For a long time, very little was known about many of the vaccines in wide use outside the U.S., especially the ones from China like CoronaVac, Sinopharm, and CanSino, and the vaccine from Russia, Sputnik Read more…
If the most vulnerable are now protected due to the vaccine, why can’t we go back to normal life?
Infection and Spread VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
April 24, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: We SO feel the yearning behind this question. The sacrifices made, especially by young people, are heart-breaking and real. Please hang in there–we are SO close to getting through the last mile AND the last inch of this pandemic. But we’re not there yet. In the US and the UK, vaccines have rolled out Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
April 22, 2021
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
It’s all your favorite nerds back for another live crossover event! Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist Dr. Emily Smith and Your local epidemiologist Dr. Katelyn Jetelina are joining Dear Pandemic’s Dr. Malia Jones to tackle questions about date night, the latest J&J news, and vaccine hesitancy among white evangelicals. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Chit Chat (0:00-1:00) ➡️ Read more…
How do I talk to kids about vaccines?
Families/Kids VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
April 20, 2021
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: Vaccination is very important for health in kids and adults alike! Even though COVID-19 vaccines aren’t authorized for most kids yet, there are lots of other vaccines that are super important! Sadly, vaccination rates in children tanked during the pandemic and it is time we get caught back up. Talking to kiddos about vaccination Read more…
Is the COVID-19 vaccine messing with my period?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
April 20, 2021
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
TL:DR: We don’t know, but researchers are actively looking into it! The clinical trials of the vaccines did not ask this question specifically, but many people have reported changes in menstrual cycles following vaccination on social media. There is no evidence that vaccination impacts fertility or that something dangerous is going on. Menstrual cycles can Read more…
What is the chance of a “breakthrough” infection after vaccination?
Infection and Spread VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
April 19, 2021
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: Quite low, but not zero. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released data on reported breakthrough cases—meaning a positive SARS-CoV-2 test more than 2 weeks after FULL vaccination. TL;DR: ➡️ 5,814 cases were reported out of over 75 MILLION people who were fully vaccinated by this time. ➡️ 396 people Read more…
What’s the definition of a vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
April 19, 2021
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
Q: I keep hearing people say ‘it’s not a vaccine’ so, what’s the definition of a vaccine? And are the vaccines for COVID vaccines? TL;DR: A vaccine is a product that is introduced to your body with the intent to create antibodies against a specific disease, giving you the ability to resist infection. There are Read more…
How will we know when a COVID-19 booster shot will be needed?
VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…
A: When immunity starts waning and/or breakthrough infections start increasing in vaccinated people, boosters will likely start to be recommended. The exact length of time that the currently available COVID-19 vaccines will provide immunity for is not currently known. Researchers are, however, continuing to monitor people who took part in vaccine trials to try to Read more…