Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at the Unbiased Science Podcast, Drs. Andrea Love and Jessica Steier! We’ll be answering reader questions about antibody testing after vaccination, viral variants & kids, #thrifting, and whether your COVID-19 vaccine can make you test positive for COVID. https://www.facebook.com/unbiasedscipod/ ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Comments Read more…
April 9, 2021
Is there some benefit to people publicly trumpeting it once they’ve been vaccinated, say, by donning stickers, buttons, bumper stickers, etc.?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes, tasteful trumpeting could improve COVID-19 vaccination uptake by activating behavioral pathways. Images and stories are powerful tools in motivating social behavior. Stickers and other public displays of individual behavior can promote collective action (Think “I Voted” stickers). When trumpeting your vaccine, remain respectful of others with different perspectives and those who continue to Read more…
April 9, 2021
What’s going on with the Astrazeneca vaccine in the UK and Europe?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s been a busy couple of weeks for European and UK vaccine regulators. TL;DR: ➡️ Investigations continue into a possible link between the Astrazeneca vaccine and a very rare type of blood clot. ➡️ Both the UK and EU regulators continue to emphasize that vaccine prevents COVID-19 disease, and the benefits of the vaccine Read more…
April 8, 2021
Does 95% efficacy mean I have a 5% chance of catching COVID after I’m vaccinated?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Not exactly, no. The A+ efficacy results of the COVID-19 vaccines in clinical trials mean that as a group, vaccinated people have *a lot* of protection from getting COVID-19. But we can’t say that any one person has a level of protection that is equal to the efficacy numbers. There are a thousand things that Read more…
April 7, 2021
Who developed the COVID-19 vaccine distributed by Moderna?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: After 6 years of working on a vaccine for novel corona viruses Dr. Kizzmekia “Kizzy” Corbett and her team found success. She is our nerdy-girl Pandemic Hero this week. Dr. Corbett is a 34 year old Black American scientist. She is a viral immunologist at the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institute of Read more…
April 6, 2021
What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccines in people who are immunosuppressed?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. While data on the relative effectiveness in these groups is still limited, COVID-19 vaccines are safe for immunosuppressed people and help protect against severe COVID-19 disease. TL;DR: ➡️ None of the vaccines contain live virus and cannot cause infection. ➡️ Even if immune response is lower in the immunosuppressed, the vaccine will induce some Read more…
April 5, 2021
How long will the protection from vaccines last?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
April 4, 2021
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at the Unbiased Science Podcast, Drs. Andrea Love and Jessica Steier! We’ll be answering reader questions about antibody testing after vaccination, viral variants & kids, #thrifting, and whether your COVID-19 vaccine can make you test positive for COVID. https://www.facebook.com/unbiasedscipod/ ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Comments Read more…
Is there some benefit to people publicly trumpeting it once they’ve been vaccinated, say, by donning stickers, buttons, bumper stickers, etc.?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Yes, tasteful trumpeting could improve COVID-19 vaccination uptake by activating behavioral pathways. Images and stories are powerful tools in motivating social behavior. Stickers and other public displays of individual behavior can promote collective action (Think “I Voted” stickers). When trumpeting your vaccine, remain respectful of others with different perspectives and those who continue to Read more…
April 9, 2021
What’s going on with the Astrazeneca vaccine in the UK and Europe?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s been a busy couple of weeks for European and UK vaccine regulators. TL;DR: ➡️ Investigations continue into a possible link between the Astrazeneca vaccine and a very rare type of blood clot. ➡️ Both the UK and EU regulators continue to emphasize that vaccine prevents COVID-19 disease, and the benefits of the vaccine Read more…
April 8, 2021
Does 95% efficacy mean I have a 5% chance of catching COVID after I’m vaccinated?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Not exactly, no. The A+ efficacy results of the COVID-19 vaccines in clinical trials mean that as a group, vaccinated people have *a lot* of protection from getting COVID-19. But we can’t say that any one person has a level of protection that is equal to the efficacy numbers. There are a thousand things that Read more…
April 7, 2021
Who developed the COVID-19 vaccine distributed by Moderna?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: After 6 years of working on a vaccine for novel corona viruses Dr. Kizzmekia “Kizzy” Corbett and her team found success. She is our nerdy-girl Pandemic Hero this week. Dr. Corbett is a 34 year old Black American scientist. She is a viral immunologist at the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institute of Read more…
April 6, 2021
What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccines in people who are immunosuppressed?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. While data on the relative effectiveness in these groups is still limited, COVID-19 vaccines are safe for immunosuppressed people and help protect against severe COVID-19 disease. TL;DR: ➡️ None of the vaccines contain live virus and cannot cause infection. ➡️ Even if immune response is lower in the immunosuppressed, the vaccine will induce some Read more…
April 5, 2021
How long will the protection from vaccines last?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
April 4, 2021
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A: Yes, tasteful trumpeting could improve COVID-19 vaccination uptake by activating behavioral pathways. Images and stories are powerful tools in motivating social behavior. Stickers and other public displays of individual behavior can promote collective action (Think “I Voted” stickers). When trumpeting your vaccine, remain respectful of others with different perspectives and those who continue to Read more…
What’s going on with the Astrazeneca vaccine in the UK and Europe?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s been a busy couple of weeks for European and UK vaccine regulators. TL;DR: ➡️ Investigations continue into a possible link between the Astrazeneca vaccine and a very rare type of blood clot. ➡️ Both the UK and EU regulators continue to emphasize that vaccine prevents COVID-19 disease, and the benefits of the vaccine Read more…
April 8, 2021
Does 95% efficacy mean I have a 5% chance of catching COVID after I’m vaccinated?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Not exactly, no. The A+ efficacy results of the COVID-19 vaccines in clinical trials mean that as a group, vaccinated people have *a lot* of protection from getting COVID-19. But we can’t say that any one person has a level of protection that is equal to the efficacy numbers. There are a thousand things that Read more…
April 7, 2021
Who developed the COVID-19 vaccine distributed by Moderna?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: After 6 years of working on a vaccine for novel corona viruses Dr. Kizzmekia “Kizzy” Corbett and her team found success. She is our nerdy-girl Pandemic Hero this week. Dr. Corbett is a 34 year old Black American scientist. She is a viral immunologist at the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institute of Read more…
April 6, 2021
What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccines in people who are immunosuppressed?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. While data on the relative effectiveness in these groups is still limited, COVID-19 vaccines are safe for immunosuppressed people and help protect against severe COVID-19 disease. TL;DR: ➡️ None of the vaccines contain live virus and cannot cause infection. ➡️ Even if immune response is lower in the immunosuppressed, the vaccine will induce some Read more…
April 5, 2021
How long will the protection from vaccines last?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
April 4, 2021
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A: It’s been a busy couple of weeks for European and UK vaccine regulators. TL;DR: ➡️ Investigations continue into a possible link between the Astrazeneca vaccine and a very rare type of blood clot. ➡️ Both the UK and EU regulators continue to emphasize that vaccine prevents COVID-19 disease, and the benefits of the vaccine Read more…
Does 95% efficacy mean I have a 5% chance of catching COVID after I’m vaccinated?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Not exactly, no. The A+ efficacy results of the COVID-19 vaccines in clinical trials mean that as a group, vaccinated people have *a lot* of protection from getting COVID-19. But we can’t say that any one person has a level of protection that is equal to the efficacy numbers. There are a thousand things that Read more…
April 7, 2021
Who developed the COVID-19 vaccine distributed by Moderna?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: After 6 years of working on a vaccine for novel corona viruses Dr. Kizzmekia “Kizzy” Corbett and her team found success. She is our nerdy-girl Pandemic Hero this week. Dr. Corbett is a 34 year old Black American scientist. She is a viral immunologist at the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institute of Read more…
April 6, 2021
What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccines in people who are immunosuppressed?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. While data on the relative effectiveness in these groups is still limited, COVID-19 vaccines are safe for immunosuppressed people and help protect against severe COVID-19 disease. TL;DR: ➡️ None of the vaccines contain live virus and cannot cause infection. ➡️ Even if immune response is lower in the immunosuppressed, the vaccine will induce some Read more…
April 5, 2021
How long will the protection from vaccines last?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
April 4, 2021
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
Not exactly, no. The A+ efficacy results of the COVID-19 vaccines in clinical trials mean that as a group, vaccinated people have *a lot* of protection from getting COVID-19. But we can’t say that any one person has a level of protection that is equal to the efficacy numbers. There are a thousand things that Read more…
Who developed the COVID-19 vaccine distributed by Moderna?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: After 6 years of working on a vaccine for novel corona viruses Dr. Kizzmekia “Kizzy” Corbett and her team found success. She is our nerdy-girl Pandemic Hero this week. Dr. Corbett is a 34 year old Black American scientist. She is a viral immunologist at the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institute of Read more…
April 6, 2021
What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccines in people who are immunosuppressed?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. While data on the relative effectiveness in these groups is still limited, COVID-19 vaccines are safe for immunosuppressed people and help protect against severe COVID-19 disease. TL;DR: ➡️ None of the vaccines contain live virus and cannot cause infection. ➡️ Even if immune response is lower in the immunosuppressed, the vaccine will induce some Read more…
April 5, 2021
How long will the protection from vaccines last?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
April 4, 2021
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A: After 6 years of working on a vaccine for novel corona viruses Dr. Kizzmekia “Kizzy” Corbett and her team found success. She is our nerdy-girl Pandemic Hero this week. Dr. Corbett is a 34 year old Black American scientist. She is a viral immunologist at the Vaccine Research Center at the National Institute of Read more…
What do we know about the COVID-19 vaccines in people who are immunosuppressed?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. While data on the relative effectiveness in these groups is still limited, COVID-19 vaccines are safe for immunosuppressed people and help protect against severe COVID-19 disease. TL;DR: ➡️ None of the vaccines contain live virus and cannot cause infection. ➡️ Even if immune response is lower in the immunosuppressed, the vaccine will induce some Read more…
April 5, 2021
How long will the protection from vaccines last?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
April 4, 2021
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A. While data on the relative effectiveness in these groups is still limited, COVID-19 vaccines are safe for immunosuppressed people and help protect against severe COVID-19 disease. TL;DR: ➡️ None of the vaccines contain live virus and cannot cause infection. ➡️ Even if immune response is lower in the immunosuppressed, the vaccine will induce some Read more…
How long will the protection from vaccines last?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
April 4, 2021
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
Q: How long will the protection from vaccines last? I just got my vaccine (yay!), when will I be at risk again? A: Still TBD, but Pfizer just released data showing high protection for UP TO 6 months. ⚠️ NOTE: This does NOT mean ONLY 6 months, it means….AT LEAST 6 months! Most scientists believe Read more…
Is the J&J 1-dose vaccine really as good as the 2-dose vaccines?
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
April 3, 2021
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
Q: I feel like I’m doing something wrong with the 1-dose J&J vaccine… like I’m cheating. Is it REALLY as good as the 2-dose vaccines? A: Yes, it’s really as good! The J&J vaccine prevented hospitalization and death from COVID-19 extremely well in the trials. The decision to go with 1 dose was based on Read more…
Any more examples of pandemic heroes?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
April 2, 2021
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A: Yes! We love this story about cheesemakers and dairy farmers helping rural Wisconsinites get access to the COVID-19 vaccine in the name of reaching “curd” immunity! In rural communities, populations tend to be older and rates of co-morbidities that increase risk for severe COVID-19 tend to be higher. In addition, access to the internet Read more…
Updated CDC Travel Advice for Fully Vaccinated People
Staying Safe Travel Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
March 31, 2021
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
💥Friday news flash: CDC says fully vaccinated people can travel safely within the US, but encourages continued precautions including masking, distancing, and hand hygiene. ✈️Adding to the list of benefits the fully vaccinated can enjoy (like small unmasked indoor gatherings with other vaccinated folks), the CDC released new guidance on Friday acknowledging lower risk of Read more…
Is the sequence of the spike protein different between the different vaccines?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
March 31, 2021
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A: Yes! The AstraZeneca vaccine uses the wild-type protein sequence while the Moderna, Pfizer/BioNTech, Novavax and Janssen include a slight modification to the sequence meant to stabilize the protein in the “prefusion” conformation. SARS-CoV-2 uses the spike protein to enter the human cell. The spike protein is like a key that the virus uses to Read more…
Pfizer vaccine reported safe and effective in kids ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
March 29, 2021
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
The company will soon apply to extend their emergency use authorization for this age group in the U.S and other countries. In a press release earlier today, Pfizer and BioNTech announced results from their Phase 3 study of 2,260 adolescents ages 12-15. Key results: ➡️ There were 18 cases of COVID-19 in the trial….. ALL Read more…
I’m vaccinated – yay! What do I do with my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Vaccines
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
March 29, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A: Make a copy, share it with your primary care provider, think before sharing it on social media, probably best not to laminate the original, and don’t panic if you lose it. Here’s your 👍 Do This, Not That list 👎 for your new favorite little piece of paper. — Congratulations! You’ve been vaccinated. You’ll Read more…
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
March 27, 2021
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! As more people become eligible for the COVID-19, we’ve heard some Read more…
Any news on COVID-19 vaccine trials for kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…
A: Yes! Pfizer just announced Thursday that it has officially launched its phase 1 trial testing their COVID-19 vaccine in children aged 6 months-11 years. Two twin 9-year old girls received their first dose on Wednesday! Let’s hear it for the next generation of the #nerdygirlnation! The goals of the trial are to: ✅ Identify Read more…