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…
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
What do we know (and not know) about delaying the second vaccine dose in kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Chana Davis, PhD
Here’s the short answer: ➡️ We DO know that the standard three week interval between first and second Pfizer-BioNTech doses is safe and effective in kids ages 5-11. It has been well tested and gives your child very good protection as soon as possible. ➡️ We DON’T know the safety or efficacy of delaying the Read more…
Talking to tweens/teens (ages 12-17) about the COVID-19 vaccine is difficult!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Here are a few answers to common questions to help you talk to the young people in your life! ➡️ Do young people get COVID-19? Yes, they do. People under 18 make up 17% of all the COVID-19 cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic and almost 25% of the cases from Read more…
Are normal precautions (masks, distance, ventilation) less effective against new variants?
COVID Variants Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
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…
How long do I need to wait after getting COVID-19 to get my first vaccine series or my booster?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
What do we know (and not know) about delaying the second vaccine dose in kids?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Chana Davis, PhD
Here’s the short answer: ➡️ We DO know that the standard three week interval between first and second Pfizer-BioNTech doses is safe and effective in kids ages 5-11. It has been well tested and gives your child very good protection as soon as possible. ➡️ We DON’T know the safety or efficacy of delaying the Read more…
Talking to tweens/teens (ages 12-17) about the COVID-19 vaccine is difficult!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Here are a few answers to common questions to help you talk to the young people in your life! ➡️ Do young people get COVID-19? Yes, they do. People under 18 make up 17% of all the COVID-19 cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic and almost 25% of the cases from Read more…
Are normal precautions (masks, distance, ventilation) less effective against new variants?
COVID Variants Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: For both children and adults, COVID-19 vaccines can be given any time after they are feeling better and are no longer contagious. Two big exceptions: People treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies OR children who had multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) need to wait at least 90 days. COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for everyone in Read more…
What do we know (and not know) about delaying the second vaccine dose in kids?
Families/Kids VaccinesChana Davis, PhD
Here’s the short answer: ➡️ We DO know that the standard three week interval between first and second Pfizer-BioNTech doses is safe and effective in kids ages 5-11. It has been well tested and gives your child very good protection as soon as possible. ➡️ We DON’T know the safety or efficacy of delaying the Read more…
Talking to tweens/teens (ages 12-17) about the COVID-19 vaccine is difficult!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Here are a few answers to common questions to help you talk to the young people in your life! ➡️ Do young people get COVID-19? Yes, they do. People under 18 make up 17% of all the COVID-19 cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic and almost 25% of the cases from Read more…
Are normal precautions (masks, distance, ventilation) less effective against new variants?
COVID Variants Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
Here’s the short answer: ➡️ We DO know that the standard three week interval between first and second Pfizer-BioNTech doses is safe and effective in kids ages 5-11. It has been well tested and gives your child very good protection as soon as possible. ➡️ We DON’T know the safety or efficacy of delaying the Read more…
Talking to tweens/teens (ages 12-17) about the COVID-19 vaccine is difficult!
Families/Kids VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Here are a few answers to common questions to help you talk to the young people in your life! ➡️ Do young people get COVID-19? Yes, they do. People under 18 make up 17% of all the COVID-19 cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic and almost 25% of the cases from Read more…
Are normal precautions (masks, distance, ventilation) less effective against new variants?
COVID Variants Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
Here are a few answers to common questions to help you talk to the young people in your life! ➡️ Do young people get COVID-19? Yes, they do. People under 18 make up 17% of all the COVID-19 cases we have seen since the start of the pandemic and almost 25% of the cases from Read more…
Are normal precautions (masks, distance, ventilation) less effective against new variants?
COVID Variants Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: NOPE. Virus mutations STILL don’t defy the laws of physics. TL;DR: Whether Omicron or Delta, all SARS-CoV-2 variants are transmitted the same way, so you can reduce risk by using your #SMARTS: ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Read more…
What’s new with Omicron?
COVID Variants VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
Uncategorized
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: IT’S. STILL. TOO. SOON. TO. TELL. We know, the media panic level has been HIGH this week. But the truth is NO expert or TV pundit can predict what will happen with the new variant Omicron right now. We simply don’t have enough data yet on the key questions about the variant: 1) Is Read more…
Q: What can I share with Dear Pandemic on Giving Tuesday?
UncategorizedAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: Support for the work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. We hope you will participate in this season of giving with a gift to Dear Pandemic. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Dear Pandemic isn’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of Read more…
Healthy Diet & Exercise vs. COVID Vaccination? Try both!
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
We’re hearing so many people repeat this line: “just eat well and exercise, that’s the best prevention for COVID-19!” Is this true? Healthy diet and exercise *are* good for your health! Unfortunately, they do not really prevent COVID. The best prevention for COVID-19 is to be vaccinated. If you do get COVID, being vaccinated is Read more…
Omicron – Blip or Blow-up?
COVID Variants Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
******UPDATE, 1:05 pm EST, 11/27/21: New cases are being reported in other countries. We can expect more of the same as surveillance goes into overdrive. I keep reminding myself that science doesn’t move at the speed of the news cycle. So we won’t know for a while which details are signal and which are noise. Read more…
How do COVID-19 Viral Vector Vaccines Work?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
Weakened adenoviruses can be used to deliver instructions to make the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, educating the immune system and preparing it for future encounters with SARS-CoV-2. The Johnson & Johnson, Astrazeneca, and the Sputnik V vaccines all use adenovirus vector technology. Watch another incredible video from The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization Read more…
Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
Q: Boosters are now available in the U.S. for everyone aged 18+. Do I really need a COVID booster dose if I am young and healthy? A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: New evidence suggest 3rd doses boost protection beyond levels of the original 2 doses, even in healthy younger people. COVID-19 vaccine development Read more…
Have you heard anything about when boosters might be approved for children ages 12 to 17?
Families/Kids VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: No Melissa, we haven’t heard anything about boosters coming for children aged 12-17 in the United States. But the magic 8-ball says it’s coming soon. 🎱 “Booster” vaccines remind our immune systems what the bad guy looks like, and they’re often used in cases where the initial introduction doesn’t make a very strong impression. Read more…
Is it safe to attend holiday gatherings with family who are absolutely against any COVID-19 mitigation efforts?
Families/Kids Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: A layered approach to protecting yourself and others is your best bet to make it safer. TL; DR Maximize the number of attendees who are vaccinated, encourage people to rapid-test before the event, consider wearing a high-quality mask, improve indoor air ventilation and/or eat outdoors, and get tested again after the event. Many of Read more…
So wild deer are widely infected with the virus that causes COVID-19… what does that mean for hunters?
Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
Content warning: if the details of deer hunting are not your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. ___________________ A: Short answer: Deer hunters should wear an N95 mask or respirator while shooting and handling your kill. Wear eye protection and gloves when dressing and butchering. Treat the lungs like a biohazard. Use more care Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out.
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
HELP! My hair is falling out. -Many readers from many places A: You are not alone. Be selective in your panic Googling (tips below). Don’t fall for product peddlers on the internet. Talk to a trusted medical provider. First, hugs from the Nerdy Girls. Pandemic-era living stinks for a lot of reasons, and the “near-perfect Read more…
A Nerdy Girl and her family get COVID-19!
Families/KidsAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
Yes- even Those Nerdy Girls are not invincible to the wrath of COVID-19. Dr. Ashley Ritter, Dear Pandemic’s Chief Nerd, here to share my family’s experience with COVID-19 infection. The moral of the story: Unvaccinated children can spread COVID-19 in their household, even among vaccinated housemates. Adults and kids 5 and older – GO GET Read more…
Deer in the U.S. have the virus that causes COVID-19.
UncategorizedMalia Jones, PhD MPH
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
ETA: Trigger warning: this post contains real bad news and it also mentions deer hunting. *************** 🦌⚠️🦌 Deer Pandemic?! 🦌⚠️🦌 Scientists recently learned that TONS of white-tailed deer in the United States have SARS-CoV-2. More than a few curse words were spoken by infectious disease epidemiologists upon hearing this news. It is very important and Read more…
How do COVID-19 mRNA vaccines work?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: A picture (or video) truly is worth a thousand words. (See link below.) Thanks to The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) for this beautiful visualization of the miracle of science. VMP is the classroom-based program of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The VMP is committed to public education about vaccine Read more…
How can I help my anxious child prepare for the COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVID
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
🛑 Stop. 🫁 Breathe. ✨Don’t Panic. ✔️ And then try a few of the tried and true strategies are here (with thanks and appreciation to Dr. Aparna’s former colleagues at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) for their guidance and training). 📅 The bottom line: It is all about the preparation! 1. Keep it simple Read more…
Can kids get “Long Covid?”
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids Long COVIDSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
A: Sadly, yes. Though we don’t know exactly how many kids who had COVID-19 will have prolonged symptoms (often called Long Covid), Long Covid is possible even in kids who had mild or asymptomatic infections. You might hear it called “Long Covid,” “Long Haul Covid,” or “Post-Covid Conditions.” All these names are talking about the Read more…
