Those Nerdy Girls honor Ms. Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth
Social and Racial Justice
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Today Those Nerdy Girls honor Ms. Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It is named for June 19th, the day in 1865 that enslaved people in Texas found out they were free. Ms. Lee, who refers to herself as “just a little old lady in Read more…
What’s going on with syphilis rates in the U.S.?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Syphilis rates are on the rise in the U.S. There are a variety of factors that might be responsible for this, including underfunding of public health clinics and failure to train clinicians to take adequate sexual histories. Rates of sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) have been climbing in the U.S., especially since 2020 when the COVID pandemic Read more…
What is decision fatigue?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn out, run down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever Read more…
Are screening tests and diagnostic tests the same thing?
Data Literacy Reproductive Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
The Short Answer: Nope! 🙅🏾♀️ The goal of a screening test is to determine the likelihood of disease in a person who currently shows no signs or symptoms, while a diagnostic test detects whether (and what type of) disease might be present in someone with symptoms. While some screening tests can be self-administered at home Read more…
It’s Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Women in STEM
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
As we wind down this beautiful month of May, we would like to take a moment to highlight Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. People of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestries are from approximately 50 distinct ethnic groups speaking over 100 languages. These ancestries include Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Hawaiian, and more. Read more…
What is the framing effect?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Tl;dr: The framing effect is a cognitive bias in which our choices are more influenced by how information is presented than the information itself. We can overcome the framing effect by purposefully rephrasing information to reflect both positive and negative aspects of the choice, separating the information from the razzle dazzle, and gathering as much Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence has become an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In a series on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of Read more…
What’s going on with mammography screening guidelines?
Health & Wellness
Mammograms are a useful screening tool for breast cancer, but they aren’t perfect tests. Figuring out how best to use them is tricky and changes over time. In early May, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft of their updated guidelines for breast cancer screening. They now propose changing the starting Read more…
What is this drug Ozempic I keep hearing about?
Health & Wellness
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Today Those Nerdy Girls honor Ms. Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It is named for June 19th, the day in 1865 that enslaved people in Texas found out they were free. Ms. Lee, who refers to herself as “just a little old lady in Read more…
What’s going on with syphilis rates in the U.S.?
Reproductive HealthSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Syphilis rates are on the rise in the U.S. There are a variety of factors that might be responsible for this, including underfunding of public health clinics and failure to train clinicians to take adequate sexual histories. Rates of sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) have been climbing in the U.S., especially since 2020 when the COVID pandemic Read more…
What is decision fatigue?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn out, run down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever Read more…
Are screening tests and diagnostic tests the same thing?
Data Literacy Reproductive Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
The Short Answer: Nope! 🙅🏾♀️ The goal of a screening test is to determine the likelihood of disease in a person who currently shows no signs or symptoms, while a diagnostic test detects whether (and what type of) disease might be present in someone with symptoms. While some screening tests can be self-administered at home Read more…
It’s Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Women in STEM
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
As we wind down this beautiful month of May, we would like to take a moment to highlight Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. People of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestries are from approximately 50 distinct ethnic groups speaking over 100 languages. These ancestries include Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Hawaiian, and more. Read more…
What is the framing effect?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Tl;dr: The framing effect is a cognitive bias in which our choices are more influenced by how information is presented than the information itself. We can overcome the framing effect by purposefully rephrasing information to reflect both positive and negative aspects of the choice, separating the information from the razzle dazzle, and gathering as much Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence has become an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In a series on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of Read more…
What’s going on with mammography screening guidelines?
Health & Wellness
Mammograms are a useful screening tool for breast cancer, but they aren’t perfect tests. Figuring out how best to use them is tricky and changes over time. In early May, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft of their updated guidelines for breast cancer screening. They now propose changing the starting Read more…
What is this drug Ozempic I keep hearing about?
Health & Wellness
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Syphilis rates are on the rise in the U.S. There are a variety of factors that might be responsible for this, including underfunding of public health clinics and failure to train clinicians to take adequate sexual histories. Rates of sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) have been climbing in the U.S., especially since 2020 when the COVID pandemic Read more…
What is decision fatigue?
Uncertainty and MisinformationSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn out, run down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever Read more…
Are screening tests and diagnostic tests the same thing?
Data Literacy Reproductive Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
The Short Answer: Nope! 🙅🏾♀️ The goal of a screening test is to determine the likelihood of disease in a person who currently shows no signs or symptoms, while a diagnostic test detects whether (and what type of) disease might be present in someone with symptoms. While some screening tests can be self-administered at home Read more…
It’s Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Women in STEM
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
As we wind down this beautiful month of May, we would like to take a moment to highlight Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. People of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestries are from approximately 50 distinct ethnic groups speaking over 100 languages. These ancestries include Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Hawaiian, and more. Read more…
What is the framing effect?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Tl;dr: The framing effect is a cognitive bias in which our choices are more influenced by how information is presented than the information itself. We can overcome the framing effect by purposefully rephrasing information to reflect both positive and negative aspects of the choice, separating the information from the razzle dazzle, and gathering as much Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence has become an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In a series on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of Read more…
What’s going on with mammography screening guidelines?
Health & Wellness
Mammograms are a useful screening tool for breast cancer, but they aren’t perfect tests. Figuring out how best to use them is tricky and changes over time. In early May, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft of their updated guidelines for breast cancer screening. They now propose changing the starting Read more…
What is this drug Ozempic I keep hearing about?
Health & Wellness
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn out, run down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever Read more…
Are screening tests and diagnostic tests the same thing?
Data Literacy Reproductive Health Uncertainty and MisinformationMacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
The Short Answer: Nope! 🙅🏾♀️ The goal of a screening test is to determine the likelihood of disease in a person who currently shows no signs or symptoms, while a diagnostic test detects whether (and what type of) disease might be present in someone with symptoms. While some screening tests can be self-administered at home Read more…
It’s Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Women in STEM
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
As we wind down this beautiful month of May, we would like to take a moment to highlight Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. People of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestries are from approximately 50 distinct ethnic groups speaking over 100 languages. These ancestries include Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Hawaiian, and more. Read more…
What is the framing effect?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Tl;dr: The framing effect is a cognitive bias in which our choices are more influenced by how information is presented than the information itself. We can overcome the framing effect by purposefully rephrasing information to reflect both positive and negative aspects of the choice, separating the information from the razzle dazzle, and gathering as much Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence has become an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In a series on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of Read more…
What’s going on with mammography screening guidelines?
Health & Wellness
Mammograms are a useful screening tool for breast cancer, but they aren’t perfect tests. Figuring out how best to use them is tricky and changes over time. In early May, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft of their updated guidelines for breast cancer screening. They now propose changing the starting Read more…
What is this drug Ozempic I keep hearing about?
Health & Wellness
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
The Short Answer: Nope! 🙅🏾♀️ The goal of a screening test is to determine the likelihood of disease in a person who currently shows no signs or symptoms, while a diagnostic test detects whether (and what type of) disease might be present in someone with symptoms. While some screening tests can be self-administered at home Read more…
It’s Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Women in STEMMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
As we wind down this beautiful month of May, we would like to take a moment to highlight Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. People of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestries are from approximately 50 distinct ethnic groups speaking over 100 languages. These ancestries include Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Hawaiian, and more. Read more…
What is the framing effect?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Tl;dr: The framing effect is a cognitive bias in which our choices are more influenced by how information is presented than the information itself. We can overcome the framing effect by purposefully rephrasing information to reflect both positive and negative aspects of the choice, separating the information from the razzle dazzle, and gathering as much Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health Policy
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence has become an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In a series on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of Read more…
What’s going on with mammography screening guidelines?
Health & Wellness
Mammograms are a useful screening tool for breast cancer, but they aren’t perfect tests. Figuring out how best to use them is tricky and changes over time. In early May, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft of their updated guidelines for breast cancer screening. They now propose changing the starting Read more…
What is this drug Ozempic I keep hearing about?
Health & Wellness
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
As we wind down this beautiful month of May, we would like to take a moment to highlight Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. People of Asian and Pacific Islander ancestries are from approximately 50 distinct ethnic groups speaking over 100 languages. These ancestries include Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Filipino, Vietnamese, Korean, Hawaiian, and more. Read more…
What is the framing effect?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and MisinformationTl;dr: The framing effect is a cognitive bias in which our choices are more influenced by how information is presented than the information itself. We can overcome the framing effect by purposefully rephrasing information to reflect both positive and negative aspects of the choice, separating the information from the razzle dazzle, and gathering as much Read more…
What is gun violence, and who does it affect?
Data and Metrics Health PolicyMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Gun violence has become an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In a series on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of Read more…
What’s going on with mammography screening guidelines?
Health & Wellness
Mammograms are a useful screening tool for breast cancer, but they aren’t perfect tests. Figuring out how best to use them is tricky and changes over time. In early May, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft of their updated guidelines for breast cancer screening. They now propose changing the starting Read more…
What is this drug Ozempic I keep hearing about?
Health & Wellness
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Gun violence has become an alarming public health crisis in the United States. Its toll goes well beyond the thousands of lives lost each year. It devastates families and communities. It threatens our sense of safety and security. In a series on gun violence as a public health issue, we explain the different types of Read more…
What’s going on with mammography screening guidelines?
Health & Wellness
Mammograms are a useful screening tool for breast cancer, but they aren’t perfect tests. Figuring out how best to use them is tricky and changes over time. In early May, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) released a draft of their updated guidelines for breast cancer screening. They now propose changing the starting Read more…
What is this drug Ozempic I keep hearing about?
Health & WellnessSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
A: Ozempic is a drug used to treat diabetes and has lately been touted as a helpful option to stimulate weight loss. Ozempic (semaglutide) was approved in 2017 for the treatment of diabetes. Sometime in 2022, the drug’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, announced that the drug was in short supply in part due to “incredible” demand. Read more…
What is availability bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and MisinformationSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Tl;dr: Availability bias, also called availability heuristic, is a type of cognitive bias that occurs when we rely disproportionately on the most readily available information to make decisions or judgments rather than the most representative or accurate data. Reflection and review of all available data can help us mitigate this particular bias. Sometimes do you Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and MetricsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
To help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
How can I boost my child’s immunity to misinformation?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and MisinformationTo help your child separate fact from fiction, teach them to: be skeptical, use credible sources, think critically, and embrace learning through science. Start early, and weave these lessons into everyday life. Back when we were young, we Nerdy Girls used encyclopedias, reference books, and textbooks to learn. These days, we are surrounded by a Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
Uncategorized
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
It is Teacher Appreciation Week!
UncategorizedMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls want to take a moment to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating the next generation. Whether in PreK-12 or at the university level or education in your area of expertise, you are the ones who ensure that we continue to strive for and value a civil society, progress in the Read more…
What are the Horn and Halo Effects?
Uncertainty and MisinformationSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Tl;dr: The Horn and Halo Effects are cognitive biases where our first impression influences our decision making and how we feel about someone. This impression can be based on a single characteristic that is not actually relevant, such as their race, gender identity, or even how attractive we find someone. To break this cycle, we Read more…
Jennifer Wheeler, MPH, PhD
Dr. Jennifer Wheeler is a public health researcher passionate about facilitating the use of research and evidence to better design and implement public health programs to achieve global health objectives. Drawing on her native Spanish, she edits, translates, and produces original content for Las Nerdy Girls. She received her MPH and PhD from Tulane University Read more…
I am struggling with my mental health and what I am doing isn’t working. I am OK, but I am not OK. What can I do to feel better?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious Diseases
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Your nerdy mental health clinician is here to talk about this one 🫖. You are not alone. We hear this very often and it usually sounds something like this: I know that more people are talking about mental health, but I: 1) Feel like I can’t get the help I need, 2) Want to make Read more…
There was an increase in Group A Strep infections this year. Any updates?
Infectious DiseasesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
TL;DR: Group A streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause infections of the throat and skin. In rare cases, it can lead to serious and invasive diseases. Though still rare, health organizations have identified increased rates of invasive group A streptococcal infections in the last several months. To complicate things, there is a shortage of Read more…
What’s up with this new ‘Arcturus’ subvariant of SARS-CoV-2?
COVID VariantsAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Arcturus (XBB.1.16) is a subvariant of the omicron variant that the World Health Organization recently classified as a “variant of interest”. TL; DR: The Arcturus subvariant has been growing in dominance since it was first identified in January 2023. It was classified as a “variant of interest” as it seems to have a growth advantage, Read more…
Are you truly a COVID-19 virgin?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
Maybe …or maybe not. Recent studies suggest that many people are unaware of their past COVID-19 infections. A Canadian study found that, in people with antibodies showing previous infection, roughly half of them thought they were COVID-19 virgins. This study used blood samples from roughly 15,000 Canadian adults surveyed across the country from April 2022 Read more…
