What’s going on with the new Johnson &Johnson/Janssen vaccine results?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: Some very positive signs for immune responses from newly published Phase 1/2 trial results, & Phase 3 efficacy results rumored to be on the near horizon. AND they tested only one dose 👏👏👏! TL;DR: ➡️ Low dose/high dose, & one dose/two dose regimes were tested in 805 adults aged 18 and older. ➡️ The Read more…
I already had COVID19 and have questions about getting the COVID19 vaccine. Help!
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. As over 92 million people worldwide have already had COVID19, a whole lotta folks are wondering about vaccination after infection. You had questions; the Nerdy Girls have answers! ➡️Cathy from Hong Kong and Diane from Michigan ask: “Does a person who has already had COVID need to be vaccinated?” Yes! Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?
VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
Dr. Aparna here to answer. This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What are some ways the average person can support vaccine efforts?”
VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
Dr. Aparna here to answer: This question just warms our hearts. And hits home for all of us here at Dear Pandemic. TL; DR: You can support by donating money, donating time/resources, following public health guidance, and learning more about local efforts (and vaccine distribution) so that you can be a vaccine ambassador during this Read more…
What do we know about Dr. Gregory Michael’s death a couple of weeks after getting his COVID-19 vaccine?
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
A: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: A doctor in Florida named Gregory Michael recently died from a hemorrhagic stroke related to extremely low platelets two weeks after receiving his first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Whether his death is linked to the vaccine or not–which is under investigation by appropriate safety monitoring systems–doesn’t change the fact that the vaccines Read more…
What is trust? Does trust impact the US COVID-19 vaccine response effort?
Social and Racial Justice Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesA: Trust in our health system is influenced by our beliefs about its benefits and consequences to ourselves and others. Low trust can derail the best of public health and medical treatments. Trust in the US health system is complicated by experiences and historical events that non-majority communities. People need time, reliable information, and repeated Read more…
What new information do we have about the B.1.1.7 variant?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread VaccinesAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: This is an evolving situation. Actions today could result in great success or tragic loss. Key take aways— B.1.1.7 is in the US. Growing evidence suggests the B.1.1.7 variant spreads more easily than previous variants. New evidence supports the hypothesis that current vaccines are effective against B.1.1.7. Early efforts to contain B.1.1.7 buys time Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Ashley Ritter will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. Today’s we’re answering questions from readers about whether you should get the vaccine if you’ve already had COVID and much more! ➡️ Welcome and NG Ashley gets her vax! (0:00-3:07) ➡️ Vaccination info for those who have Read more…
What is the relationship of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement (ADE) to heightened COVID symptoms?
VaccinesMichelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
Q: Is this a worry with the vaccine? What about with reinfection?” A: Antibody-dependent enhancement or ADE is not a concern with the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and will not likely be a concern with the other vaccines that will be approved. Vaccine developers and the FDA are all looking carefully for any evidence of Read more…
Why is vaccine rollout so slow!?!
VaccinesAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
Q: Why can’t we get available vaccine doses administered more quickly? A: Many factors: The holidays, lack of funding, staffing and logistical challenges, getting large-scale vaccine operations up and running, sticking to prioritization schemes, and lower take-up among high-priority groups. Things should be speeding up in the next few weeks. It’s frustrating to see statistics Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
In this live Q&A, Drs. Malia Jones & Amanda Simanek will be tackling pandemic questions from our readers. We’ll take questions about the “mutant strain”, which vaccine is best, that rumor about asymptomatic transmission being a phantom, and what we know (and don’t) about whether someone can still spread COVID after being vaccinated. ➡️ Welcome Read more…
What’s going on with the Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine and one-dose strategy in Britain?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: The Oxford/Astrazeneca vaccine was granted emergency authorization & the British government has decided to give as many people a first vaccine dose while delaying second doses *up to* 12 weeks after the first. A big news week here in the UK where this Nerdy Girl (Jenn) lives. Besides the worldwide focus on the new Read more…
How many people have to get vaccinated to reach herd immunity? Will we ever get there?
VaccinesAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: About 70-90% of the population will need to get the COVID-19 vaccine to stop transmission. If vaccine acceptance is low, it could take until late 2022 to reach herd immunity. If vaccine acceptance is high, we could be well on our way by this summer. The good news: people are reporting less hesitancy and Read more…
Do the COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: While we don’t yet know for sure, it does not look like the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID19 vaccines cause Bell’s palsy. Bell’s palsy is a condition that causes weakness on one side of the face. The facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve for all of you keeping track out there) is responsible for movement Read more…
Should I be worried about potential long-term side effects of COVID-19 vaccines?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: Realistically, no. Biologically, the chances of long-term effects are vanishingly small. TL;DR: Serious vaccine side effects are exceedingly rare and occur hours or days after vaccination, not months or years. The risk of infection and long-term health effects of COVID-19 infection are high and very real. We *really* feel the sentiment behind this common Read more…
Why do we need two doses of the COVID-19 vaccine? Can we use one dose and vaccinate more people?
VaccinesMichelle Kinder, PhD
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: A two dose schedule was proven to work and authorized for both the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. One dose provides sub-optimal immunity and has not been studied in clinical trials designed to test their efficacy. Giving one dose of these vaccines to the most vulnerable populations would leave them without full immune protection. Read more…
Cute kids to Dr. Fauci: “When will we get vaccinated?”
VaccinesLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
A: Dr. Fauci to cute kids: “Hang in there – coupla’ more months and we’ll be in good shape!” We Nerdy Girls are big #faucifangirls. We’re also moms. So, when Dr. Fauci spoke to kids (and Elmo!) recently about COVID vaccines, we listened up! Here’s the TL;DR on kids and COVID vaccine trials: ➡️ Safety Read more…
Why I got the vaccine – Dr. Sarah Coles
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
Hello everyone! Dr. Sarah Coles here, one of your Nerdy Girls. I’m very proud to announce that this weekend I was able to get my first dose of the Covid19 vaccine! It was a powerful experience for me, and I wanted to take a moment to share with you why I got the vaccine. As Read more…
