UPDATED 1/31/23: When can I get another COVID booster?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
I got my updated/bivalent booster in September, and I’m worried my protection is waning. A: We don’t know yet, but the FDA may be giving guidance soon. **UPDATE 1/31/23.** The VRBAC meeting happened last week, but the only official vote was to make the primary series (1st two doses) the same formula as the updated Read more…
I just heard about Missed Period Pills – is that really a thing?
Reproductive Health
A: “Missed period pills” are the same medications used for an at-home abortion, but are taken much earlier and without confirming an actual pregnancy. If you are a few days late for a period, it could be due to a very early pregnancy OR to a variety of other things. Stress, illness, and hormonal fluctuations Read more…
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month!
Health & Wellness Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Q: Who should get Pap tests? At what point do they become unnecessary? – Debra in Washington A: Everyone with a cervix aged 21 to 65 years should be screened for cervical cancer every 3-5 years. Screening should use either a Pap test that looks for pre-cancer or cancer cells on the cervix and/or a Read more…
Did you know it is National News Literacy Week?!!!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
Is it OK to use Flonase, allergy sprays, saline mist, or Neti pots before I take a COVID-19 rapid test or will it change my results?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Great question from Leah!* The answer: Yes, it is OK! We don’t have evidence that using nose sprays or Neti pots will change your COVID-19 rapid test results! TL; DR: The SARS CoV-2 rapid antigen tests (aka COVID-19 rapid tests) become positive if they find a lot of the protein that that comes from SARS Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 01-18-23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Masks Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls deliver a New Year’s message from our CEO Dr. Ashley Ritter and also share advice on staying healthy during the tripledemic, including testing, masking, and more. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD:TNG CEO & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder at Fueled Read more…
Do rapid antigen tests detect the latest COVID-19 variants?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Rapid antigen tests can detect the latest COVID-19 variants, but their performance may be weaker than it was with the original SARS-CoV-2 strains. There is a good chance that you will have to test more than once to get your first positive test. The answer to the question “how well do antigen tests work?” is Read more…
Time to pause and reflect.
Social and Racial Justice
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
I got my updated/bivalent booster in September, and I’m worried my protection is waning. A: We don’t know yet, but the FDA may be giving guidance soon. **UPDATE 1/31/23.** The VRBAC meeting happened last week, but the only official vote was to make the primary series (1st two doses) the same formula as the updated Read more…
I just heard about Missed Period Pills – is that really a thing?
Reproductive Health
A: “Missed period pills” are the same medications used for an at-home abortion, but are taken much earlier and without confirming an actual pregnancy. If you are a few days late for a period, it could be due to a very early pregnancy OR to a variety of other things. Stress, illness, and hormonal fluctuations Read more…
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month!
Health & Wellness Reproductive HealthMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Q: Who should get Pap tests? At what point do they become unnecessary? – Debra in Washington A: Everyone with a cervix aged 21 to 65 years should be screened for cervical cancer every 3-5 years. Screening should use either a Pap test that looks for pre-cancer or cancer cells on the cervix and/or a Read more…
Did you know it is National News Literacy Week?!!!
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
Is it OK to use Flonase, allergy sprays, saline mist, or Neti pots before I take a COVID-19 rapid test or will it change my results?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Great question from Leah!* The answer: Yes, it is OK! We don’t have evidence that using nose sprays or Neti pots will change your COVID-19 rapid test results! TL; DR: The SARS CoV-2 rapid antigen tests (aka COVID-19 rapid tests) become positive if they find a lot of the protein that that comes from SARS Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 01-18-23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Masks Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls deliver a New Year’s message from our CEO Dr. Ashley Ritter and also share advice on staying healthy during the tripledemic, including testing, masking, and more. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD:TNG CEO & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder at Fueled Read more…
Do rapid antigen tests detect the latest COVID-19 variants?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Rapid antigen tests can detect the latest COVID-19 variants, but their performance may be weaker than it was with the original SARS-CoV-2 strains. There is a good chance that you will have to test more than once to get your first positive test. The answer to the question “how well do antigen tests work?” is Read more…
Time to pause and reflect.
Social and Racial Justice
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Q: Who should get Pap tests? At what point do they become unnecessary? – Debra in Washington A: Everyone with a cervix aged 21 to 65 years should be screened for cervical cancer every 3-5 years. Screening should use either a Pap test that looks for pre-cancer or cancer cells on the cervix and/or a Read more…
Did you know it is National News Literacy Week?!!!
Uncertainty and MisinformationAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
Is it OK to use Flonase, allergy sprays, saline mist, or Neti pots before I take a COVID-19 rapid test or will it change my results?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Great question from Leah!* The answer: Yes, it is OK! We don’t have evidence that using nose sprays or Neti pots will change your COVID-19 rapid test results! TL; DR: The SARS CoV-2 rapid antigen tests (aka COVID-19 rapid tests) become positive if they find a lot of the protein that that comes from SARS Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 01-18-23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Masks Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls deliver a New Year’s message from our CEO Dr. Ashley Ritter and also share advice on staying healthy during the tripledemic, including testing, masking, and more. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD:TNG CEO & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder at Fueled Read more…
Do rapid antigen tests detect the latest COVID-19 variants?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Rapid antigen tests can detect the latest COVID-19 variants, but their performance may be weaker than it was with the original SARS-CoV-2 strains. There is a good chance that you will have to test more than once to get your first positive test. The answer to the question “how well do antigen tests work?” is Read more…
Time to pause and reflect.
Social and Racial Justice
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
It is! This week marks the 4th annual National News Literacy Week during which The News Literacy Project will be sharing tools and resources that can help us all become better at navigating news information and discuss how to rebuild trust in news media! TL; DR: Check out the events they have planned and sign Read more…
Is it OK to use Flonase, allergy sprays, saline mist, or Neti pots before I take a COVID-19 rapid test or will it change my results?
Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Great question from Leah!* The answer: Yes, it is OK! We don’t have evidence that using nose sprays or Neti pots will change your COVID-19 rapid test results! TL; DR: The SARS CoV-2 rapid antigen tests (aka COVID-19 rapid tests) become positive if they find a lot of the protein that that comes from SARS Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 01-18-23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Masks Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls deliver a New Year’s message from our CEO Dr. Ashley Ritter and also share advice on staying healthy during the tripledemic, including testing, masking, and more. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD:TNG CEO & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder at Fueled Read more…
Do rapid antigen tests detect the latest COVID-19 variants?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Rapid antigen tests can detect the latest COVID-19 variants, but their performance may be weaker than it was with the original SARS-CoV-2 strains. There is a good chance that you will have to test more than once to get your first positive test. The answer to the question “how well do antigen tests work?” is Read more…
Time to pause and reflect.
Social and Racial Justice
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Great question from Leah!* The answer: Yes, it is OK! We don’t have evidence that using nose sprays or Neti pots will change your COVID-19 rapid test results! TL; DR: The SARS CoV-2 rapid antigen tests (aka COVID-19 rapid tests) become positive if they find a lot of the protein that that comes from SARS Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 01-18-23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Masks Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing VideosChana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls deliver a New Year’s message from our CEO Dr. Ashley Ritter and also share advice on staying healthy during the tripledemic, including testing, masking, and more. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD:TNG CEO & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder at Fueled Read more…
Do rapid antigen tests detect the latest COVID-19 variants?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Rapid antigen tests can detect the latest COVID-19 variants, but their performance may be weaker than it was with the original SARS-CoV-2 strains. There is a good chance that you will have to test more than once to get your first positive test. The answer to the question “how well do antigen tests work?” is Read more…
Time to pause and reflect.
Social and Racial Justice
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls deliver a New Year’s message from our CEO Dr. Ashley Ritter and also share advice on staying healthy during the tripledemic, including testing, masking, and more. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD:TNG CEO & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder at Fueled Read more…
Do rapid antigen tests detect the latest COVID-19 variants?
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
Rapid antigen tests can detect the latest COVID-19 variants, but their performance may be weaker than it was with the original SARS-CoV-2 strains. There is a good chance that you will have to test more than once to get your first positive test. The answer to the question “how well do antigen tests work?” is Read more…
Time to pause and reflect.
Social and Racial Justice
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Rapid antigen tests can detect the latest COVID-19 variants, but their performance may be weaker than it was with the original SARS-CoV-2 strains. There is a good chance that you will have to test more than once to get your first positive test. The answer to the question “how well do antigen tests work?” is Read more…
Time to pause and reflect.
Social and Racial JusticeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Join us today in setting aside some time to pause and reflect. Today we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life, work, and legacy of creating a more just society. We reflect on his call to regard each and every person as equally valuable, essential and loved. In the United States, MLK Day is a Read more…
¿Es normal estar muy ansiosa seis meses después de tener un bebé? Todo el mundo me dice que mejorará.
Mental Health Posts en Español Reproductive HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Sí y no. Cierto grado de adaptación es normal, pero los cambios repentinos en cómo te sientes pueden ser un signo de que estás experimentando un trastorno del estado de ánimo o de ansiedad en el periodo perinatal (a veces denominado trastorno de ansiedad postparto). ¿Así que mucha gente realmente pasa por esto? Por supuesto. Read more…
Part 2 of How can we all keep supporting our loved ones who are immunocompromised or at risk of getting sick?
Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Last week we wrote about how to support a loved one who is immunocompromised. Let’s continue the conversation. Recently we reviewed a post with suggestions from a person with a family member who is immunocompromised. We wanted to share the readers’ suggestions here as food for thought. 1. Require people to always mask in medical Read more…
Help! Some of my friends/family are not up to date on their vaccines. How do I start the conversation?
VaccinesSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
A: Bottom line – start small (with questions) and be empathic. Don’t focus on why they’re “wrong.” While a majority of Americans (about 79%) have received at least one dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccine series, many have not stayed up to date on boosters (or finished their primary series). Some are still waiting for Read more…
What’s going on with strep infections?
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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of 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 like necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock syndrome, and other severe infections. Though still rare, the WHO Health Organization, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, and the US Read more…
Does getting COVID-19 rapid tests covered by your insurance require you to pay out-of-pocket and then get reimbursed?
Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & Wellness
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
Not always! In many cases you can walk into a pharmacy, provide your insurance card, and walk out with 8 free tests! No paperwork or reimbursement required. If you have health insurance in the U.S. (via your employer, Medicare Part B, Medicaid, or the Affordable Care Act marketplace) **EACH PERSON** in your family covered on Read more…
How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
Health & WellnessAlexandra Hall, MD
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & Wellness
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! With the recent and very public tragedy of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest, a lot of folks are wondering what happened and what they could do in a similar situation. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Read more…
Weight loss is my New Year’s Resolution. What can I do?
Health & WellnessSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
A: As we enter the New Year, people are putting a lot of weight on their weight. Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But your health is more than just a number. Here are some ideas to help you focus on what really matters here. Maybe you have noticed that Read more…
How concerned should I be about the new XBB.1.5 variant?
COVID VariantsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
XBB.1.5 has a transmission advantage, but this doesn’t make it a game-changing “super variant.” Keep calm, get boosted (and ramp-up precautions), and carry-on. At this stage of the pandemic, new variants are *guaranteed* to come and go. Variants arise from random errors as viruses make copies of itself. Most of these errors will be neutral Read more…
Winter is coming… GO, GO, GO and get your updated COVID booster!
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
COVID activity is picking up in the United States and much of Europe. We’ve heard from our own families that many people *think* they are up to date on boosters but actually haven’t gotten the updated (or “bivalent” booster). If you got your previous boosters prior to September 2022 but none since, you are eligible Read more…
Is setting a New Year’s Resolution a recipe for disaster?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
A: Not at all! You can make those resolutions happen….well, at least one or two of them. TL; DR: Lots of people set goals (aka resolutions or intentions) around this time of year. When you set your goals, make sure you focus on the what, why, and how. 🫖 Tell me more. Lots of us Read more…
Any ideas for year-end giving?
UncategorizedJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
A: Support the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls! Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident now more than ever. This year we’ve expanded our work with a new Reproductive Health squad to Read more…
Does the bivalent COVID-19 booster provide better protection against COVID-19?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
TL;DR: Yes! The new bivalent booster vaccine does give additional protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infections, reduces emergency department and urgent care visits, and reduces the risk of hospitalization. In September 2022, the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended that all persons aged 12 and up who had already gotten their primary series of Read more…
