How do I help prepare my child for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
The COVID-19 vaccine is almost here for children age 5 and up! How do I help prepare my child for the vaccine? A: Hooray! An FDA advisory panel has recommended the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children age 5 to 11 and the US will hopefully see final authorization from the CDC and FDA next week. Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
How can I inquire about indoor air quality at my workplace and my child’s school?
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two priorities: ventilation and filtration. See six key diligence questions below. First, two definitions for those who might want a “refresher” (ha ha…pun intended ;)) ➡️ VENTILATION – the provision of *fresh air* to indoor spaces; and ➡️ FILTRATION – the removal of disease-causing particles from indoor air Now onto the six key questions….. Read more…
My kid has a runny nose. Should we get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) Runny noses are tricky. On one hand, they’re a common symptom of COVID-19. On the other hand, they are usually due to some other bug. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure what you’ve got. Whether or not you test, be kind and spare others not just from the sniffles, but Read more…
Aviso: La mayoría de las personas pueden recibir la vacuna COVID-19.
Posts en Español Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
🙋¿Quiénes no pueden recibir la vacuna? ✔ No existen condiciones médicas que impidan que las personas reciban la vacuna COVID-19. ALERGIAS: No sabemos si el polietilenglicol (PEG) o el sorbato de polietileno provocan reacciones alérgicas. Estos componentes están en las vacunas de ARNm. Si ha tenido alergias graves a las vacunas en el pasado o Read more…
I want to help my friends overcome vaccine hesitancy. How do I give a strong vaccine recommendation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Give a strong, clear, favorable recommendation; be persistent; listen with empathy; address concerns; and keep the door open to keep talking about it! Receiving a strong recommendation in favor of vaccination from a trusted source is one of the most important reasons someone accepts immunization. Each of us can be that trusted source for Read more…
💥 FINALLY…some new MIX AND MATCH DATA💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
The COVID-19 vaccine is almost here for children age 5 and up! How do I help prepare my child for the vaccine? A: Hooray! An FDA advisory panel has recommended the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for children age 5 to 11 and the US will hopefully see final authorization from the CDC and FDA next week. Read more…
Can I take an antibody test to see if I need a booster shot?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
How can I inquire about indoor air quality at my workplace and my child’s school?
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two priorities: ventilation and filtration. See six key diligence questions below. First, two definitions for those who might want a “refresher” (ha ha…pun intended ;)) ➡️ VENTILATION – the provision of *fresh air* to indoor spaces; and ➡️ FILTRATION – the removal of disease-causing particles from indoor air Now onto the six key questions….. Read more…
My kid has a runny nose. Should we get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) Runny noses are tricky. On one hand, they’re a common symptom of COVID-19. On the other hand, they are usually due to some other bug. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure what you’ve got. Whether or not you test, be kind and spare others not just from the sniffles, but Read more…
Aviso: La mayoría de las personas pueden recibir la vacuna COVID-19.
Posts en Español Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
🙋¿Quiénes no pueden recibir la vacuna? ✔ No existen condiciones médicas que impidan que las personas reciban la vacuna COVID-19. ALERGIAS: No sabemos si el polietilenglicol (PEG) o el sorbato de polietileno provocan reacciones alérgicas. Estos componentes están en las vacunas de ARNm. Si ha tenido alergias graves a las vacunas en el pasado o Read more…
I want to help my friends overcome vaccine hesitancy. How do I give a strong vaccine recommendation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Give a strong, clear, favorable recommendation; be persistent; listen with empathy; address concerns; and keep the door open to keep talking about it! Receiving a strong recommendation in favor of vaccination from a trusted source is one of the most important reasons someone accepts immunization. Each of us can be that trusted source for Read more…
💥 FINALLY…some new MIX AND MATCH DATA💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: Unfortunately, no. TL;DR: 💥Our current antibody tests can’t tell us how well someone is protected from COVID-19 infection or disease. Whether you have been previously infected, vaccinated, or a combination of the two, the recent authorization of booster shots in many countries has people wondering if they need one yet. While it would be Read more…
How can I inquire about indoor air quality at my workplace and my child’s school?
Infection and SpreadLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two priorities: ventilation and filtration. See six key diligence questions below. First, two definitions for those who might want a “refresher” (ha ha…pun intended ;)) ➡️ VENTILATION – the provision of *fresh air* to indoor spaces; and ➡️ FILTRATION – the removal of disease-causing particles from indoor air Now onto the six key questions….. Read more…
My kid has a runny nose. Should we get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) Runny noses are tricky. On one hand, they’re a common symptom of COVID-19. On the other hand, they are usually due to some other bug. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure what you’ve got. Whether or not you test, be kind and spare others not just from the sniffles, but Read more…
Aviso: La mayoría de las personas pueden recibir la vacuna COVID-19.
Posts en Español Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
🙋¿Quiénes no pueden recibir la vacuna? ✔ No existen condiciones médicas que impidan que las personas reciban la vacuna COVID-19. ALERGIAS: No sabemos si el polietilenglicol (PEG) o el sorbato de polietileno provocan reacciones alérgicas. Estos componentes están en las vacunas de ARNm. Si ha tenido alergias graves a las vacunas en el pasado o Read more…
I want to help my friends overcome vaccine hesitancy. How do I give a strong vaccine recommendation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Give a strong, clear, favorable recommendation; be persistent; listen with empathy; address concerns; and keep the door open to keep talking about it! Receiving a strong recommendation in favor of vaccination from a trusted source is one of the most important reasons someone accepts immunization. Each of us can be that trusted source for Read more…
💥 FINALLY…some new MIX AND MATCH DATA💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: Two priorities: ventilation and filtration. See six key diligence questions below. First, two definitions for those who might want a “refresher” (ha ha…pun intended ;)) ➡️ VENTILATION – the provision of *fresh air* to indoor spaces; and ➡️ FILTRATION – the removal of disease-causing particles from indoor air Now onto the six key questions….. Read more…
My kid has a runny nose. Should we get tested?
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
A) Runny noses are tricky. On one hand, they’re a common symptom of COVID-19. On the other hand, they are usually due to some other bug. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure what you’ve got. Whether or not you test, be kind and spare others not just from the sniffles, but Read more…
Aviso: La mayoría de las personas pueden recibir la vacuna COVID-19.
Posts en Español Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
🙋¿Quiénes no pueden recibir la vacuna? ✔ No existen condiciones médicas que impidan que las personas reciban la vacuna COVID-19. ALERGIAS: No sabemos si el polietilenglicol (PEG) o el sorbato de polietileno provocan reacciones alérgicas. Estos componentes están en las vacunas de ARNm. Si ha tenido alergias graves a las vacunas en el pasado o Read more…
I want to help my friends overcome vaccine hesitancy. How do I give a strong vaccine recommendation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Give a strong, clear, favorable recommendation; be persistent; listen with empathy; address concerns; and keep the door open to keep talking about it! Receiving a strong recommendation in favor of vaccination from a trusted source is one of the most important reasons someone accepts immunization. Each of us can be that trusted source for Read more…
💥 FINALLY…some new MIX AND MATCH DATA💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A) Runny noses are tricky. On one hand, they’re a common symptom of COVID-19. On the other hand, they are usually due to some other bug. Getting tested is the only way to know for sure what you’ve got. Whether or not you test, be kind and spare others not just from the sniffles, but Read more…
Aviso: La mayoría de las personas pueden recibir la vacuna COVID-19.
Posts en Español Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesTita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
🙋¿Quiénes no pueden recibir la vacuna? ✔ No existen condiciones médicas que impidan que las personas reciban la vacuna COVID-19. ALERGIAS: No sabemos si el polietilenglicol (PEG) o el sorbato de polietileno provocan reacciones alérgicas. Estos componentes están en las vacunas de ARNm. Si ha tenido alergias graves a las vacunas en el pasado o Read more…
I want to help my friends overcome vaccine hesitancy. How do I give a strong vaccine recommendation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Give a strong, clear, favorable recommendation; be persistent; listen with empathy; address concerns; and keep the door open to keep talking about it! Receiving a strong recommendation in favor of vaccination from a trusted source is one of the most important reasons someone accepts immunization. Each of us can be that trusted source for Read more…
💥 FINALLY…some new MIX AND MATCH DATA💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
🙋¿Quiénes no pueden recibir la vacuna? ✔ No existen condiciones médicas que impidan que las personas reciban la vacuna COVID-19. ALERGIAS: No sabemos si el polietilenglicol (PEG) o el sorbato de polietileno provocan reacciones alérgicas. Estos componentes están en las vacunas de ARNm. Si ha tenido alergias graves a las vacunas en el pasado o Read more…
I want to help my friends overcome vaccine hesitancy. How do I give a strong vaccine recommendation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Give a strong, clear, favorable recommendation; be persistent; listen with empathy; address concerns; and keep the door open to keep talking about it! Receiving a strong recommendation in favor of vaccination from a trusted source is one of the most important reasons someone accepts immunization. Each of us can be that trusted source for Read more…
💥 FINALLY…some new MIX AND MATCH DATA💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: Give a strong, clear, favorable recommendation; be persistent; listen with empathy; address concerns; and keep the door open to keep talking about it! Receiving a strong recommendation in favor of vaccination from a trusted source is one of the most important reasons someone accepts immunization. Each of us can be that trusted source for Read more…
💥 FINALLY…some new MIX AND MATCH DATA💥
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
On the eve of the US FDA meetings some long awaited results from the US Mix and Match booster trial. TL;DR: ➡️ A boost of ANY vaccine raised antibodies a lot, no matter your first type of vaccine. ➡️ Boosting with an mRNA vaccine (Moderna or Pfizer) after an original Johnson & Johnson vaccine produced Read more…
Should I get tested after X (fill in the blank)?
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A) To test or not to test? When in doubt, test. If testing access is limited, prioritize testing after riskier activities and when you pose a high risk to others. Continue using SMARTS layers of protection on top of testing. Read on for the TL;DR on when testing adds the most value and how to Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Delta variant?
COVID Variants MasksJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Delta is more transmissible, in part due to infected people shedding more virus from their nose and mouth. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Delta, it’s also a good idea to UPGRADE YOUR MASK when you are in higher Read more…
Scientists recently did something pretty cool (okay, *Nerdy* cool).
Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
They put COVID-19 infected people in a room and measured how much virus was in the air under different conditions. ❓What did they find? TL;DR: ➡️ The more virus the person had in their nose, the more was in the room (shocker!) ➡️ HEPA FILTRATION reduced viral load in the air the most ➡️ Increased Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Boosters Live Q&A
Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
An all-new special Live Q&A at 9am Central Time Saturday, Oct 2! We’ll be talking ALL ABOUT BOOSTERS and answering your ❓’s about mix & match, ❓’s about timing, ❓’s about flu shots + COVID-19 boosters, ❓’s about boosters after you got COVID-19! So many ❓❓❓’s! ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-1:57) ➡️ Week in Review: Read more…
How are possible side effects from COVID-19 vaccines evaluated and tracked?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: The vaccines have been shown to be safe (much safer than getting COVID-19!) and effective, but safety monitoring continues and remains a priority. Several existing and some new strategies were put in place to monitor the safety of COVID-19 vaccines. Below, get ready to wade through some acronyms and we’ll outline a few of Read more…
I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data LiteracyJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
VaccinesGretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
