Did you already answer a question about…?
Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Most likely YES! And you can search our past posts right here on our website! If you don’t find a past post answering your question, you can submit your question to us via our question box right here! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered ~ 2000 questions on our Facebook pages (Dear Read more…
Update: The updated CDC quarantine and isolation guidelines are now also recommended for K-12 schools.
Families/Kids School Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
These guidelines are not recommended for children in childcare settings where children cannot mask (babies, infants under 2). See our previous post for full details on updated guidelines for the general public. The Key Points: ➡️ Anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or has tested positive for COVID-19 should ISOLATE for 5 days, [archived link] then Read more…
What does it mean when hospitals are talking about “Crisis Standards of Care?”
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As many places see a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitals and resources become strained. Crisis standards of care represent a big change from usual healthcare made necessary by a major disaster. Crisis standards help guide decisions that must be made in extreme scarcity of resources (including staff, stuff, and space). Crisis standards of Read more…
The kids’ vaccine appointment is tomorrow, but the school just told us they were exposed.
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Can you vaccinate a child who has recently been exposed to COVID-19 but isn’t showing any symptoms? A: Although there is no medical reason to wait, there may be practical reasons–it depends on your situation. It’s safe for your child to go ahead, but you should also follow guidance about isolating to protect others. If Read more…
What can I do for a school nurse today?
Families/Kids Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Escalating COVID-19 cases and changing guidelines fall directly on the shoulders of school nurses. School nurses maintain the preventative and daily health of millions of children and are key in navigating COVID-19 risk mitigation. Here’s a few ideas to help out these unbelievable professionals. Layer on the patience, kindness, and grace. This is the “Monday-est” Read more…
UPDATE on detecting Omicron with Rapid Antigen Tests:
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Over the last few weeks, rapid tests have detected many COVID cases, but often not as early as we’d like them to. With a bit of biohacking, and careful interpretation of test results, rapid tests can still be a valuable tool, despite their imperfections. THE GOOD NEWS Most rapid tests (aka lateral flow assays) can Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
A: Most likely YES! And you can search our past posts right here on our website! If you don’t find a past post answering your question, you can submit your question to us via our question box right here! Since March 2020, Those Nerdy Girls have answered ~ 2000 questions on our Facebook pages (Dear Read more…
Update: The updated CDC quarantine and isolation guidelines are now also recommended for K-12 schools.
Families/Kids School Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
These guidelines are not recommended for children in childcare settings where children cannot mask (babies, infants under 2). See our previous post for full details on updated guidelines for the general public. The Key Points: ➡️ Anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or has tested positive for COVID-19 should ISOLATE for 5 days, [archived link] then Read more…
What does it mean when hospitals are talking about “Crisis Standards of Care?”
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As many places see a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitals and resources become strained. Crisis standards of care represent a big change from usual healthcare made necessary by a major disaster. Crisis standards help guide decisions that must be made in extreme scarcity of resources (including staff, stuff, and space). Crisis standards of Read more…
The kids’ vaccine appointment is tomorrow, but the school just told us they were exposed.
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Can you vaccinate a child who has recently been exposed to COVID-19 but isn’t showing any symptoms? A: Although there is no medical reason to wait, there may be practical reasons–it depends on your situation. It’s safe for your child to go ahead, but you should also follow guidance about isolating to protect others. If Read more…
What can I do for a school nurse today?
Families/Kids Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Escalating COVID-19 cases and changing guidelines fall directly on the shoulders of school nurses. School nurses maintain the preventative and daily health of millions of children and are key in navigating COVID-19 risk mitigation. Here’s a few ideas to help out these unbelievable professionals. Layer on the patience, kindness, and grace. This is the “Monday-est” Read more…
UPDATE on detecting Omicron with Rapid Antigen Tests:
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Over the last few weeks, rapid tests have detected many COVID cases, but often not as early as we’d like them to. With a bit of biohacking, and careful interpretation of test results, rapid tests can still be a valuable tool, despite their imperfections. THE GOOD NEWS Most rapid tests (aka lateral flow assays) can Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
These guidelines are not recommended for children in childcare settings where children cannot mask (babies, infants under 2). See our previous post for full details on updated guidelines for the general public. The Key Points: ➡️ Anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or has tested positive for COVID-19 should ISOLATE for 5 days, [archived link] then Read more…
What does it mean when hospitals are talking about “Crisis Standards of Care?”
TreatmentsSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: As many places see a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitals and resources become strained. Crisis standards of care represent a big change from usual healthcare made necessary by a major disaster. Crisis standards help guide decisions that must be made in extreme scarcity of resources (including staff, stuff, and space). Crisis standards of Read more…
The kids’ vaccine appointment is tomorrow, but the school just told us they were exposed.
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Can you vaccinate a child who has recently been exposed to COVID-19 but isn’t showing any symptoms? A: Although there is no medical reason to wait, there may be practical reasons–it depends on your situation. It’s safe for your child to go ahead, but you should also follow guidance about isolating to protect others. If Read more…
What can I do for a school nurse today?
Families/Kids Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Escalating COVID-19 cases and changing guidelines fall directly on the shoulders of school nurses. School nurses maintain the preventative and daily health of millions of children and are key in navigating COVID-19 risk mitigation. Here’s a few ideas to help out these unbelievable professionals. Layer on the patience, kindness, and grace. This is the “Monday-est” Read more…
UPDATE on detecting Omicron with Rapid Antigen Tests:
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Over the last few weeks, rapid tests have detected many COVID cases, but often not as early as we’d like them to. With a bit of biohacking, and careful interpretation of test results, rapid tests can still be a valuable tool, despite their imperfections. THE GOOD NEWS Most rapid tests (aka lateral flow assays) can Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
A: As many places see a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitals and resources become strained. Crisis standards of care represent a big change from usual healthcare made necessary by a major disaster. Crisis standards help guide decisions that must be made in extreme scarcity of resources (including staff, stuff, and space). Crisis standards of Read more…
The kids’ vaccine appointment is tomorrow, but the school just told us they were exposed.
Families/Kids Testing and Contact TracingMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Can you vaccinate a child who has recently been exposed to COVID-19 but isn’t showing any symptoms? A: Although there is no medical reason to wait, there may be practical reasons–it depends on your situation. It’s safe for your child to go ahead, but you should also follow guidance about isolating to protect others. If Read more…
What can I do for a school nurse today?
Families/Kids Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Escalating COVID-19 cases and changing guidelines fall directly on the shoulders of school nurses. School nurses maintain the preventative and daily health of millions of children and are key in navigating COVID-19 risk mitigation. Here’s a few ideas to help out these unbelievable professionals. Layer on the patience, kindness, and grace. This is the “Monday-est” Read more…
UPDATE on detecting Omicron with Rapid Antigen Tests:
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Over the last few weeks, rapid tests have detected many COVID cases, but often not as early as we’d like them to. With a bit of biohacking, and careful interpretation of test results, rapid tests can still be a valuable tool, despite their imperfections. THE GOOD NEWS Most rapid tests (aka lateral flow assays) can Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
Can you vaccinate a child who has recently been exposed to COVID-19 but isn’t showing any symptoms? A: Although there is no medical reason to wait, there may be practical reasons–it depends on your situation. It’s safe for your child to go ahead, but you should also follow guidance about isolating to protect others. If Read more…
What can I do for a school nurse today?
Families/Kids Women in STEMAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Escalating COVID-19 cases and changing guidelines fall directly on the shoulders of school nurses. School nurses maintain the preventative and daily health of millions of children and are key in navigating COVID-19 risk mitigation. Here’s a few ideas to help out these unbelievable professionals. Layer on the patience, kindness, and grace. This is the “Monday-est” Read more…
UPDATE on detecting Omicron with Rapid Antigen Tests:
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Over the last few weeks, rapid tests have detected many COVID cases, but often not as early as we’d like them to. With a bit of biohacking, and careful interpretation of test results, rapid tests can still be a valuable tool, despite their imperfections. THE GOOD NEWS Most rapid tests (aka lateral flow assays) can Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
Escalating COVID-19 cases and changing guidelines fall directly on the shoulders of school nurses. School nurses maintain the preventative and daily health of millions of children and are key in navigating COVID-19 risk mitigation. Here’s a few ideas to help out these unbelievable professionals. Layer on the patience, kindness, and grace. This is the “Monday-est” Read more…
UPDATE on detecting Omicron with Rapid Antigen Tests:
COVID Variants Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
Over the last few weeks, rapid tests have detected many COVID cases, but often not as early as we’d like them to. With a bit of biohacking, and careful interpretation of test results, rapid tests can still be a valuable tool, despite their imperfections. THE GOOD NEWS Most rapid tests (aka lateral flow assays) can Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
Over the last few weeks, rapid tests have detected many COVID cases, but often not as early as we’d like them to. With a bit of biohacking, and careful interpretation of test results, rapid tests can still be a valuable tool, despite their imperfections. THE GOOD NEWS Most rapid tests (aka lateral flow assays) can Read more…
Happy, happy New Year to our Dear Pandemic community!
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
Our path through this pandemic may not be linear, but we’re staying right here with you to help absorb all the twists and turns. They say we often overestimate what we can get done in a day, but underestimate what we can accomplish in a year. As we strain to see through this current Omicron Read more…
It is almost 2022……BUT I have COVID-19 and I feel guilty.
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
Don’t feel guilty. Do …. DO YOUR PART. Listen. We Nerdy Girls look at the data, news, and updates ALL THE TIME. The Omicron variant is more transmissible than prior variants and a lot of people have it. Just in England, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 25 people had COVID-19 last week. Depending Read more…
💥 Some GOOD breaking news to ring in the New Year💥
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
➡️ The U.S. Food and Drug Administration plans to extend eligibility for boosters of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine to to 12- to 15-year-olds. ➡️ They also plan to reduce the minimum wait time for 3rd doses from 6 months to 5 months after the 2nd dose. ➡️ A booster shot is also expected to be authorized Read more…
The CDC’s Updated Guidance on Isolation
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health Policy
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
The one certainty in this pandemic is CHANGE….. And in science, changing evidence means that we learn more about what we are studying. And that means that we update based on new knowledge. This is sort of, kind of, what happened this week. See Dr. Lindsey’s earlier post on this…..and the WHY….https://tinyurl.com/d9tyjs5s Before diving in, Read more…
Is the new CDC isolation policy good or bad?
Health PolicyLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
A: There are no easy answers, only tough tradeoffs. Read below to learn how to stay calm and think on. 💥Think Like a Health Policy Nerd: A New Occasional Series💥 Pandemic policy chatter is a bit like an epidemic curve. A controversial health policy decision lands. It’s met with loud cheers by some and louder Read more…
What should I do if I can’t get a COVID-19 test and I am symptomatic?
Clinical SymptomsAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
Stay calm and isolate. Let someone know you are not feeling well if you are alone. Continue to monitor for worsening symptoms. Call for help if symptoms worsen. Seek emergency care if you are unable to care for yourself at home. COVID-19 testing is difficult to find at the moment in many places. If you Read more…
What’s the best MASK to protect me from the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants MasksJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
A: A well-fitted, high filtration mask such as N95, KN95, FFP2 or KF94. ⚠️ Omicron may be even more transmissible than previous variants, possibly due to faster replication in the upper airways, meaning people will expel lots of virus when breathing and talking. While vaccination is still your #1 defense against Omicron, it’s also a Read more…
Is it true that Omicron is less severe than previous variants?
COVID VariantsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
A: We HOPE so, but we don’t know yet. The evidence so far is mixed. TL;DR We are WAY past due for some good variant news. But pinning our Omicron hopes on a less virulent variant is not wise for two reasons: 1) It might not be less severe in those who are “immune naïve” Read more…
A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
💥Breaking News Friday💥 TL:DR: A slight delay to Pfizer’s vaccine trial for <5 year olds: The trial is adding a 3rd dose to boost immune response, and now expects submission of data “in the first half of 2022.” The vaccine news the past 12 months has mostly been WAY better than expected. Today the news Read more…
I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
Positively confusing! I just got my third vaccine dose, but I tested positive for COVID19…..Now what? QUICK ANSWER: ➡️ Tell your healthcare provider you have had a positive test result right away. ➡️ Isolate for 10 days after symptoms appeared or after your positive test if you never had symptoms. ➡️ Make sure you don’t Read more…
POSTCARDS FROM THE UK: Buckle up America (and everywhere else).
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
And by buckle up, I mean BOOST-UP. And take other sensible precautions, especially leading up to the holidays. Nerdy Girl Jenn (🇺🇸 in 🇬🇧 ) writing from not-so-sunny England, home of the strangest shaped epidemic curve ever seen (Figure 1). Delta has been raging here since June and never went away. Omicron has a significant Read more…
Can our current COVID-19 diagnostics, like PCR tests and rapid antigen tests, detect the Omicron variant?
COVID Variants Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID Variants
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
A: Good news. Standard diagnostic PCR tests can pick up the Omicron variant. As far as we know, most rapid antigen tests can also detect Omicron, but tests are ongoing to determine if any specific brands are less sensitive to Omicron. Stay tuned! WHICH VARIANT DO I HAVE? 🦠 Standard diagnostic tests can’t tell you Read more…
I keep hearing all these new terms since the omicron variant came on the scene-can you clarify what all these words mean?
COVID VariantsAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
A: Yes! Here are some explanations of many of the buzzwords flying 🦟 around right now….variant of concern, neutralizing antibodies, immune evasion and more! *Variant*: A variant is a version of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that has changes to its genetic sequence (i.e., mutations). These changes make it distinct from the other versions of the virus Read more…
Feeling Blue? These tips can help you get through this season.
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
With the shorter days, colder weather, and darker days in the northern hemisphere, many people may be experiencing the seasonal blues and even seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, up to 20-40% of all adults may experience SAD every year. 💡 The good news is that there are a few recommended strategies that may help: Read more…
