Talking to tweens/teens (ages 12-17) about the COVID-19 vaccine is difficult!
Families/Kids VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Here are a few answers to common questions to help you talk to the young people in your life! ➡️ Do young people get COVID-19? Yes, they do. People under 18 make up 17% of all the COVID-19 cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic and almost 25% of the cases from Read more…
December 2, 2021
Are normal precautions (masks, distance, ventilation) less effective against new variants?
COVID Variants Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
December 1, 2021
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
November 30, 2021
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
November 29, 2021
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
November 27, 2021
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
November 26, 2021
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
November 23, 2021
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Here are a few answers to common questions to help you talk to the young people in your life! ➡️ Do young people get COVID-19? Yes, they do. People under 18 make up 17% of all the COVID-19 cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic and almost 25% of the cases from Read more…
Are normal precautions (masks, distance, ventilation) less effective against new variants?
COVID Variants Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
December 1, 2021
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
November 30, 2021
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
November 29, 2021
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
November 27, 2021
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
November 26, 2021
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
November 23, 2021
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
November 30, 2021
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
November 29, 2021
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
November 27, 2021
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
November 26, 2021
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
November 23, 2021
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
UncategorizedAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
November 29, 2021
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
November 27, 2021
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
November 26, 2021
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
November 23, 2021
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
Health & Wellness Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
November 27, 2021
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
November 26, 2021
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
November 23, 2021
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
November 26, 2021
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
November 23, 2021
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
November 23, 2021
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
November 22, 2021
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
November 20, 2021
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
November 18, 2021
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
November 17, 2021
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
November 16, 2021
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/KidsAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
November 15, 2021
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
UncategorizedMalia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
November 13, 2021
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
November 12, 2021
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
November 10, 2021
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVIDSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
November 9, 2021
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, *IS* available in the United States.
Uncertainty and MisinformationMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
November 8, 2021
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Have you heard the latest social media rumor? Pfizer-BioNTech’s FDA-approved vaccine, Comirnaty, is not available in the United States/your state yet. True or false?! You guessed it–this is not true. And next time you run across something that smells a little fishy, don’t get caught! 🎣 Just google it followed by the words “fact check” Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls tackle your questions about vaccines for 5-11-yr-olds
Families/Kids Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
November 4, 2021
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls Dr. Malia Jones, Dr. Aparna Kumar, Dr. Sarah Coles, and Dr. Chana Davis talk about the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5-11 which is now available in the United States. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and chit chat (0:00-3:12) ➡️ Overview of the recommendation for the Pfizer vaccine in kids ages 5-11 (3:21-9:50) Related Read more…
The FDA is underestimating the benefits of COVID vaccines for kids.
Families/Kids VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…
Many of us nerdy girls tuned in to watch the live feeds of the recent FDA and CDC advisory committee meetings, during which two different panels of experts discussed the lower-dose Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 for kids ages 5-11. The FDA and CDC panels both evaluate risks and benefits of vaccines, but they take very Read more…