Get the Facts on Predatory Publishing and Fake Scientific Journals
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
Misinformation Alert Predatory scientific publishing is a thing. There is an entire industry of essentially fake, for-profit “journals” that will publish just about anything for a fee. Academics get “invitations” to publish in these journals all the time. Most often they have humorous flaws like odd salutations “Greetings of the day, Respected Doctor!” or other Read more…
Why is my PCR test still positive if I’ve taken Paxlovid, isolated and have been asymptomatic for many days?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Constance from Astoria, NY asks: “I tested positive for COVID-19, took Paxlovid, and isolated for 12 days. My symptoms are gone. Why does my PCR test show I’m positive?” Great question, Constance! PCR tests are very sensitive, picking up even old fragments of viral RNA that may be leftover in your body but not capable Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 06-06-22
COVID Variants Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
Evaluating Medical Literature: Patient Oriented Evidence vs. Disease Oriented Evidence
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Results of medical studies are often reported in the news. You may have seen headlines like “What vegetable on your dinner plate is killing you?” or “New study shows Medicine X causes memory loss!” You are, very likely and very appropriately, highly skeptical of these headlines but it can be really tricky to sort out Read more…
What options exist for birth control?
Health & Wellness
Megan Madsen, DO
Reproductive rights are in the news these days, which has this Nerdy Girl thinking – this is a nice time to take a quick break to review options to prevent pregnancy. Babies are wonderful and it’s also pretty great to be able to choose if and when you become a parent. Luckily you have many Read more…
¿Por qué hay algunas personas que no se infectan con COVID-19 cuando todos a su alrededor están infectados?
Infection and Spread Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Aunque el COVID-19 es MUY transmisible, todos conocen los casos donde personas viajan juntas en un carro y una de ellas está infectada, pero los otros nunca se infectan ni dan positivo en el test. ¿Cómo puede pasar? ¡Es una buenísima pregunta! Para que un virus se transmita entre las personas, bastantes partículas virales deben Read more…
What is an anxiety disorder?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Misinformation Alert Predatory scientific publishing is a thing. There is an entire industry of essentially fake, for-profit “journals” that will publish just about anything for a fee. Academics get “invitations” to publish in these journals all the time. Most often they have humorous flaws like odd salutations “Greetings of the day, Respected Doctor!” or other Read more…
Why is my PCR test still positive if I’ve taken Paxlovid, isolated and have been asymptomatic for many days?
Testing and Contact TracingJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Constance from Astoria, NY asks: “I tested positive for COVID-19, took Paxlovid, and isolated for 12 days. My symptoms are gone. Why does my PCR test show I’m positive?” Great question, Constance! PCR tests are very sensitive, picking up even old fragments of viral RNA that may be leftover in your body but not capable Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 06-06-22
COVID Variants Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
Evaluating Medical Literature: Patient Oriented Evidence vs. Disease Oriented Evidence
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Results of medical studies are often reported in the news. You may have seen headlines like “What vegetable on your dinner plate is killing you?” or “New study shows Medicine X causes memory loss!” You are, very likely and very appropriately, highly skeptical of these headlines but it can be really tricky to sort out Read more…
What options exist for birth control?
Health & Wellness
Megan Madsen, DO
Reproductive rights are in the news these days, which has this Nerdy Girl thinking – this is a nice time to take a quick break to review options to prevent pregnancy. Babies are wonderful and it’s also pretty great to be able to choose if and when you become a parent. Luckily you have many Read more…
¿Por qué hay algunas personas que no se infectan con COVID-19 cuando todos a su alrededor están infectados?
Infection and Spread Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Aunque el COVID-19 es MUY transmisible, todos conocen los casos donde personas viajan juntas en un carro y una de ellas está infectada, pero los otros nunca se infectan ni dan positivo en el test. ¿Cómo puede pasar? ¡Es una buenísima pregunta! Para que un virus se transmita entre las personas, bastantes partículas virales deben Read more…
What is an anxiety disorder?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Constance from Astoria, NY asks: “I tested positive for COVID-19, took Paxlovid, and isolated for 12 days. My symptoms are gone. Why does my PCR test show I’m positive?” Great question, Constance! PCR tests are very sensitive, picking up even old fragments of viral RNA that may be leftover in your body but not capable Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 06-06-22
COVID Variants Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Testing and Contact Tracing Vaccines VideosChana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
Evaluating Medical Literature: Patient Oriented Evidence vs. Disease Oriented Evidence
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Results of medical studies are often reported in the news. You may have seen headlines like “What vegetable on your dinner plate is killing you?” or “New study shows Medicine X causes memory loss!” You are, very likely and very appropriately, highly skeptical of these headlines but it can be really tricky to sort out Read more…
What options exist for birth control?
Health & Wellness
Megan Madsen, DO
Reproductive rights are in the news these days, which has this Nerdy Girl thinking – this is a nice time to take a quick break to review options to prevent pregnancy. Babies are wonderful and it’s also pretty great to be able to choose if and when you become a parent. Luckily you have many Read more…
¿Por qué hay algunas personas que no se infectan con COVID-19 cuando todos a su alrededor están infectados?
Infection and Spread Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Aunque el COVID-19 es MUY transmisible, todos conocen los casos donde personas viajan juntas en un carro y una de ellas está infectada, pero los otros nunca se infectan ni dan positivo en el test. ¿Cómo puede pasar? ¡Es una buenísima pregunta! Para que un virus se transmita entre las personas, bastantes partículas virales deben Read more…
What is an anxiety disorder?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Those Nerdy Girls answer your latest questions about COVID and beyond. This month’s topics include: * Monkeypox * Shingles & the shingles vaccine * The SIDS study that went viral * Variant-specific COVID vaccines There’s also a speed round with quick answers to common questions Read more…
Evaluating Medical Literature: Patient Oriented Evidence vs. Disease Oriented Evidence
Data and Metrics Data LiteracySarah Whitley Coles, MD
Results of medical studies are often reported in the news. You may have seen headlines like “What vegetable on your dinner plate is killing you?” or “New study shows Medicine X causes memory loss!” You are, very likely and very appropriately, highly skeptical of these headlines but it can be really tricky to sort out Read more…
What options exist for birth control?
Health & Wellness
Megan Madsen, DO
Reproductive rights are in the news these days, which has this Nerdy Girl thinking – this is a nice time to take a quick break to review options to prevent pregnancy. Babies are wonderful and it’s also pretty great to be able to choose if and when you become a parent. Luckily you have many Read more…
¿Por qué hay algunas personas que no se infectan con COVID-19 cuando todos a su alrededor están infectados?
Infection and Spread Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Aunque el COVID-19 es MUY transmisible, todos conocen los casos donde personas viajan juntas en un carro y una de ellas está infectada, pero los otros nunca se infectan ni dan positivo en el test. ¿Cómo puede pasar? ¡Es una buenísima pregunta! Para que un virus se transmita entre las personas, bastantes partículas virales deben Read more…
What is an anxiety disorder?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Results of medical studies are often reported in the news. You may have seen headlines like “What vegetable on your dinner plate is killing you?” or “New study shows Medicine X causes memory loss!” You are, very likely and very appropriately, highly skeptical of these headlines but it can be really tricky to sort out Read more…
What options exist for birth control?
Health & WellnessMegan Madsen, DO
Reproductive rights are in the news these days, which has this Nerdy Girl thinking – this is a nice time to take a quick break to review options to prevent pregnancy. Babies are wonderful and it’s also pretty great to be able to choose if and when you become a parent. Luckily you have many Read more…
¿Por qué hay algunas personas que no se infectan con COVID-19 cuando todos a su alrededor están infectados?
Infection and Spread Posts en Español
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Aunque el COVID-19 es MUY transmisible, todos conocen los casos donde personas viajan juntas en un carro y una de ellas está infectada, pero los otros nunca se infectan ni dan positivo en el test. ¿Cómo puede pasar? ¡Es una buenísima pregunta! Para que un virus se transmita entre las personas, bastantes partículas virales deben Read more…
What is an anxiety disorder?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Reproductive rights are in the news these days, which has this Nerdy Girl thinking – this is a nice time to take a quick break to review options to prevent pregnancy. Babies are wonderful and it’s also pretty great to be able to choose if and when you become a parent. Luckily you have many Read more…
¿Por qué hay algunas personas que no se infectan con COVID-19 cuando todos a su alrededor están infectados?
Infection and Spread Posts en EspañolTita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Aunque el COVID-19 es MUY transmisible, todos conocen los casos donde personas viajan juntas en un carro y una de ellas está infectada, pero los otros nunca se infectan ni dan positivo en el test. ¿Cómo puede pasar? ¡Es una buenísima pregunta! Para que un virus se transmita entre las personas, bastantes partículas virales deben Read more…
What is an anxiety disorder?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Aunque el COVID-19 es MUY transmisible, todos conocen los casos donde personas viajan juntas en un carro y una de ellas está infectada, pero los otros nunca se infectan ni dan positivo en el test. ¿Cómo puede pasar? ¡Es una buenísima pregunta! Para que un virus se transmita entre las personas, bastantes partículas virales deben Read more…
What is an anxiety disorder?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
😟 Anxiety is a general term that can describe stress, worries, and specific fears. We often think of anxiety about school, work, or new situations. All of us have anxiety sometimes. And a little bit of it isn’t a bad thing. Sometimes it pushes us to do new things or to get things done. But Read more…
Progress Being Made on Potential mRNA Vaccine for HIV
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Earlier this year, Moderna started a small human trial of a vaccine against HIV infection using the same mRNA technology that led to the success and rapid availability of COVID-19 vaccines. They expect to have safety data (and some hints about effectiveness) in 2023. mRNA technology has been in development for decades, and we can Read more…
Frequently Asked Questions about when to BOOST
VaccinesAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
The recent guidance from the CDC is straightforward: Anyone 5 or older should receive a booster 5 months after their last dose. People over the age of 50 and children 12 or older who are immunocompromised are eligible for a second booster 4 months after their last dose. Here are answers to a few more Read more…
What is depression anyways?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
💧 Depression is a medical illness, influenced by genes 🧬 , 😞 stressors in our lives, and the 🏡 environment around us. It is influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors. There is no one cause for depression. Depression can affect any person, regardless of age or social status. Some people are more likely to Read more…
What you need to know now about monkeypox
Infectious DiseasesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEM
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
A multi-country outbreak of monkeypox is in progress and has affected over 100 people in Western Europe and other high-income countries so far. Identified cases stretch across 12 countries where monkeypox is not usually found, and more cases are likely to be identified before the outbreak is resolved. Affected nations include 8 in Europe, the Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls: Maggie Hayes
Women in STEMMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Today we get to introduce another one of Those Nerdy Girls, Maggie Hayes. Maggie is our Spanish language science communications intern, and she helps with operations, translation, and community engagement on our Spanish-language channel, Querida Pandemia. Maggie is a UW-Madison undergraduate majoring in Spanish and Sociology with a certificate in Chicana and Latina Studies. She Read more…
Is it safe to . . .?!
Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Kristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
“How risky is being indoors with our 10-year-old granddaughter without masks? We have plans to have birthday tea together. Are we safe?” That question, from a woman named Debby in California, is just one of hundreds I’ve received from concerned people who are worried about COVID-19. I’m an epidemiologist and one of the women behind Read more…
Series on Logical Fallacies – “Who funds you?”
Data Literacy Uncertainty and MisinformationKristen Panthagani, MD, PhD
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
At Dear Pandemic, we want to dish out science facts AND equip our readers with tools to make sense of data and science themselves. This is post is part of an ongoing series by Dr. Kristen Panthagani of You Can Know Things, in which she dissects common logical fallacies that have led people astray during Read more…
Did you know you can get 8 more *FREE* COVID-19 rapid tests sent directly to your house?
Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
A: It’s true! Even if your household already received free tests before! In the U.S. only though. Visit here and order yours today: https://www.covid.gov/tests. All you need to do is enter your name and a shipping address…THAT’S IT! You can also call here to order instead: 1-800-232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489).
Why do some people not get COVID when everyone around them has it?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadGuest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
TLDR; Many things impact infection risk, including vaccination status, prior exposures, genetics, and the specific details of one’s contact with infected people. Even when conditions seem ideal for transmission, it’s not a done deal. This is why, if COVID comes to your home, it’s worth trying to limit spread. And sometimes, you just get lucky. Read more…
What is sensitivity and specificity, and why should I care?
Data and Metrics Data LiteracySarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
Treatments
Megan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
A: Good question! Sensitivity and specificity are characteristics of a medical test that help us determine how useful that test is and how to interpret the result. BUT, they aren’t the be all and end all. We also want to know the positive and negative predictive value. Strap in for the ride and let’s talk Read more…
What is Paxlovid Mouth?
TreatmentsMegan Madsen, DO
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing Videos
Chana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
While effective and generally safe, Paxlovid does have the potential for some side effects. One temporary, but particularly distasteful side effect reported is “Paxlovid mouth.” Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir + Ritonavir) has become a household name since its March 2022 Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval as an at-home option to treat COVID-19. It consists of a 5 Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 05-07-22
Health & Wellness Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing VideosChana Davis, PhD
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
Live COVID Q&A with Those Nerdy Girls of Dear Pandemic Featuring Nerdy Girls: Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD – TNG CEO & Founding Member Chana Davis, PhD, Fueled by Science: TNG Contributing Writer Those Nerdy Girls are back to tackle your latest COVID questions. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-1:02) ➡️ The impact of pandemic Read more…
Help! It’s Day 10 and my rapid antigen test is still positive. Am I contagious?
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
A: For most people, the risk of spreading to COVID to others is likely minimal after Day 10 – but not so low that you can throw caution to the wind. While rapid antigen tests can be useful as proxies for contagiousness, their value is unclear after Day 10. Infectious disease experts generally support exiting Read more…
