What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
I heard somewhere that doctors and hospitals are falsely claiming deaths are due to COVID-19 and incorrectly increasing the case counts. Is that true?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: No. There is no evidence that healthcare professionals are inflating the numbers of COVID-19 cases. Understanding the role of death certificates and how they are completed can help you get to the bottom of it. There has been increased circulation of a false claim that clinicians and hospitals are inflating the number of COVID-19 Read more…
How do I have a SMART Halloween?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news!! Traditional Halloween activities in the United States are pretty easy to adapt to a COVID world! With a few modifications, we can trick-or-treat, dress up, visit friends outdoors, and go to pumpkin patches safely. Just keep the invitation list to a minimum, wear a mask, and skip the indoor activities. With Halloween Read more…
Do I need to wear a mask when I am alone outside?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: There are scenarios where you should wear a mask outside, even when you are alone. To illustrate a few common outdoor mask wearing questions, we will use a comparison to operating the lights on your car. Think about your nose and mouth like the high beam lights on your car. High beam lights are Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Staying Safe Treatments Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://youtu.be/y2Vu2p6IkjA Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones tackle questions about COVID from readers in this live Facebook event. ➡️ Intro and (grim) state of the pandemic: :01 – 1:56 ➡️ Lightning round: 2:30 – 5:40 ➡️ Treatment update: 5:45 – 12:05 ➡️ Outdoor masking: 12:10 – 16:20 ➡️ Malia saves Halloween!: 17:00 – 23:00
I am struggling more with substance use this month. What other supports could help?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The stress of the pandemic and isolation may increase stress and increase the risk of substance use for many people. Still, even in this pandemic, we are inspired by the dedication of many who continue providing resources and supports. We have noted some in our previous post: 1-Virtual groups, 2-Therapy, 3-Medications for opioid use Read more…
Help! I have Maskne!
Masks
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: So far it seems that short-term re-infection with SARS-CoV-2 is possible, but (hopefully) rare. A key question from the beginning of the pandemic has been what is the duration of immunity for SARS-CoV-2. Viruses like measles can provide lifelong immunity, but immunity to seasonal coronaviruses has generally been short-lived (around 12 months). One challenge Read more…
I heard somewhere that doctors and hospitals are falsely claiming deaths are due to COVID-19 and incorrectly increasing the case counts. Is that true?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and MisinformationSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: No. There is no evidence that healthcare professionals are inflating the numbers of COVID-19 cases. Understanding the role of death certificates and how they are completed can help you get to the bottom of it. There has been increased circulation of a false claim that clinicians and hospitals are inflating the number of COVID-19 Read more…
How do I have a SMART Halloween?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news!! Traditional Halloween activities in the United States are pretty easy to adapt to a COVID world! With a few modifications, we can trick-or-treat, dress up, visit friends outdoors, and go to pumpkin patches safely. Just keep the invitation list to a minimum, wear a mask, and skip the indoor activities. With Halloween Read more…
Do I need to wear a mask when I am alone outside?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: There are scenarios where you should wear a mask outside, even when you are alone. To illustrate a few common outdoor mask wearing questions, we will use a comparison to operating the lights on your car. Think about your nose and mouth like the high beam lights on your car. High beam lights are Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Staying Safe Treatments Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://youtu.be/y2Vu2p6IkjA Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones tackle questions about COVID from readers in this live Facebook event. ➡️ Intro and (grim) state of the pandemic: :01 – 1:56 ➡️ Lightning round: 2:30 – 5:40 ➡️ Treatment update: 5:45 – 12:05 ➡️ Outdoor masking: 12:10 – 16:20 ➡️ Malia saves Halloween!: 17:00 – 23:00
I am struggling more with substance use this month. What other supports could help?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The stress of the pandemic and isolation may increase stress and increase the risk of substance use for many people. Still, even in this pandemic, we are inspired by the dedication of many who continue providing resources and supports. We have noted some in our previous post: 1-Virtual groups, 2-Therapy, 3-Medications for opioid use Read more…
Help! I have Maskne!
Masks
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: No. There is no evidence that healthcare professionals are inflating the numbers of COVID-19 cases. Understanding the role of death certificates and how they are completed can help you get to the bottom of it. There has been increased circulation of a false claim that clinicians and hospitals are inflating the number of COVID-19 Read more…
How do I have a SMART Halloween?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Good news!! Traditional Halloween activities in the United States are pretty easy to adapt to a COVID world! With a few modifications, we can trick-or-treat, dress up, visit friends outdoors, and go to pumpkin patches safely. Just keep the invitation list to a minimum, wear a mask, and skip the indoor activities. With Halloween Read more…
Do I need to wear a mask when I am alone outside?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: There are scenarios where you should wear a mask outside, even when you are alone. To illustrate a few common outdoor mask wearing questions, we will use a comparison to operating the lights on your car. Think about your nose and mouth like the high beam lights on your car. High beam lights are Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Staying Safe Treatments Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://youtu.be/y2Vu2p6IkjA Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones tackle questions about COVID from readers in this live Facebook event. ➡️ Intro and (grim) state of the pandemic: :01 – 1:56 ➡️ Lightning round: 2:30 – 5:40 ➡️ Treatment update: 5:45 – 12:05 ➡️ Outdoor masking: 12:10 – 16:20 ➡️ Malia saves Halloween!: 17:00 – 23:00
I am struggling more with substance use this month. What other supports could help?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The stress of the pandemic and isolation may increase stress and increase the risk of substance use for many people. Still, even in this pandemic, we are inspired by the dedication of many who continue providing resources and supports. We have noted some in our previous post: 1-Virtual groups, 2-Therapy, 3-Medications for opioid use Read more…
Help! I have Maskne!
Masks
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: Good news!! Traditional Halloween activities in the United States are pretty easy to adapt to a COVID world! With a few modifications, we can trick-or-treat, dress up, visit friends outdoors, and go to pumpkin patches safely. Just keep the invitation list to a minimum, wear a mask, and skip the indoor activities. With Halloween Read more…
Do I need to wear a mask when I am alone outside?
Masks Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: There are scenarios where you should wear a mask outside, even when you are alone. To illustrate a few common outdoor mask wearing questions, we will use a comparison to operating the lights on your car. Think about your nose and mouth like the high beam lights on your car. High beam lights are Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Staying Safe Treatments Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://youtu.be/y2Vu2p6IkjA Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones tackle questions about COVID from readers in this live Facebook event. ➡️ Intro and (grim) state of the pandemic: :01 – 1:56 ➡️ Lightning round: 2:30 – 5:40 ➡️ Treatment update: 5:45 – 12:05 ➡️ Outdoor masking: 12:10 – 16:20 ➡️ Malia saves Halloween!: 17:00 – 23:00
I am struggling more with substance use this month. What other supports could help?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The stress of the pandemic and isolation may increase stress and increase the risk of substance use for many people. Still, even in this pandemic, we are inspired by the dedication of many who continue providing resources and supports. We have noted some in our previous post: 1-Virtual groups, 2-Therapy, 3-Medications for opioid use Read more…
Help! I have Maskne!
Masks
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: There are scenarios where you should wear a mask outside, even when you are alone. To illustrate a few common outdoor mask wearing questions, we will use a comparison to operating the lights on your car. Think about your nose and mouth like the high beam lights on your car. High beam lights are Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Staying Safe Treatments VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
https://youtu.be/y2Vu2p6IkjA Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones tackle questions about COVID from readers in this live Facebook event. ➡️ Intro and (grim) state of the pandemic: :01 – 1:56 ➡️ Lightning round: 2:30 – 5:40 ➡️ Treatment update: 5:45 – 12:05 ➡️ Outdoor masking: 12:10 – 16:20 ➡️ Malia saves Halloween!: 17:00 – 23:00
I am struggling more with substance use this month. What other supports could help?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The stress of the pandemic and isolation may increase stress and increase the risk of substance use for many people. Still, even in this pandemic, we are inspired by the dedication of many who continue providing resources and supports. We have noted some in our previous post: 1-Virtual groups, 2-Therapy, 3-Medications for opioid use Read more…
Help! I have Maskne!
Masks
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
https://youtu.be/y2Vu2p6IkjA Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones tackle questions about COVID from readers in this live Facebook event. ➡️ Intro and (grim) state of the pandemic: :01 – 1:56 ➡️ Lightning round: 2:30 – 5:40 ➡️ Treatment update: 5:45 – 12:05 ➡️ Outdoor masking: 12:10 – 16:20 ➡️ Malia saves Halloween!: 17:00 – 23:00
I am struggling more with substance use this month. What other supports could help?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: The stress of the pandemic and isolation may increase stress and increase the risk of substance use for many people. Still, even in this pandemic, we are inspired by the dedication of many who continue providing resources and supports. We have noted some in our previous post: 1-Virtual groups, 2-Therapy, 3-Medications for opioid use Read more…
Help! I have Maskne!
Masks
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: The stress of the pandemic and isolation may increase stress and increase the risk of substance use for many people. Still, even in this pandemic, we are inspired by the dedication of many who continue providing resources and supports. We have noted some in our previous post: 1-Virtual groups, 2-Therapy, 3-Medications for opioid use Read more…
Help! I have Maskne!
MasksSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental Health
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: We do too! Masks, while super important to prevent the spread of COVID-19, can be hard on the skin. You can develop problems like acne or skin irritation. But wait! There are some simple tips to help protect your skin. Maskne is a much more fun way to describe acne mechanica, a skin condition Read more…
I’m feeling anxious… and bored at the same time. Is this normal? And is there a solution?
Mental HealthLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: Welcome to the paradoxical feeling of acedia – an old word used to describe that very now feeling of apathetic restlessness. Good news: There are evidence-based ways to fight back. Background: Early Christian monks called acedia the “noonday demon” – the tough feelings you feel where you are alone, feeling listless and wonder why Read more…
Election season is in full swing, and the news is getting even more hectic!! How do I make sure my sources are accurate?!
Staying Safe Uncertainty and MisinformationRebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: The COVID “infodemic” has made it harder than ever to cut through the noise, and election season absolutely adds to this challenge. The good news is that Lindsey’s Laws for news diligence that we’ve been using here at Dear Pandemic to fight misinformation can ALSO apply to the political news cycle! As we laid Read more…
How safe is [my specific situation/event/activity]?
Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: Imagine that you develop a serious allergy to bee stings. Your doctor tells you that if you get stung by a bee again, you might die unless you receive medication within minutes. You are planning to go on a hike. Do you ask a bunch of questions about the likelihood of there being bees Read more…
Hand Sanitizer Quiz
Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
Treatments
Q: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
Hand sanitizer – a true 2020 must-have. But how much do we REALLY know about its benefits and dangers? Enter the FDA’s hand sanitizer IQ quiz! Let’s try our hand at a few questions. (Scroll to the bottom of the post for answers!) ❇️ T/F: Soap and water beats hand sanitizer at preventing the spread Read more…
Could you speak to the issue of Elderberry Syrup and COVID?
TreatmentsQ: We’re entering the season where I typically give it to my family as a flu prevention, but I’ve read that it can aggravate some COVID symptoms.” A: No scientific studies have been done using elderberry syrup to prevent or treat COVID-19. Similarly, there has been no information on whether elderberry syrup has negative impacts Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Infection and Spread School Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
https://www.facebook.com/thosenerdygirls/videos/380034256456524 Dr. Lindsey Leininger and Dr. Malia Jones answer your COVID questions! This week we tackle: ☑️ Reinfection (2:25 – 7:45) ☑️ Psychology of risky behavior (7:55 – 13:06) ☑️ Election-day poll volunteering (13:19 – 17:45) ☑️ Are schools superspreaders? (18:00 – 25:55) ☑️ It’s OK to donate blood! (26:03 – 27:30) Big thanks to Read more…
I’ve been exposed. Is there a treatment that can keep me from getting sick?
TreatmentsLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe Travel
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: Not currently. But there’s hope in the clinical trial pipeline. For many viral diseases, treatment with a prescribed “post-exposure prophylaxis” (PEP) can block an exposure from developing into a full-blown infection. Tamiflu is perhaps the best-known example. TL;DR about PEP prospects for COVID-19: ✔️ Several older drugs repurposed for COVID-19 PEP have failed in Read more…
Could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays?
Staying Safe TravelAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
Q: Madeleine from Plano, TX asks, could you provide any updates on safety of air travel at this time in advance of holidays? A: Yes! Since we last posted on this topic in August, a few new studies have suggested that risk of transmission of COVID-19 ON AIRPLANES themselves is fairly low *when masks are Read more…
I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started.
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
Q: I have been drinking a bit more since this pandemic started. Many of my friends have too. I am having a harder time not drinking every day. What should I do? A: The first step is recognizing that you may have a drinking problem. Then: 1) Seek social connections. 2) Prioritize healthy coping mechanisms. Read more…
Are there really false positives from COVID tests?
Testing and Contact TracingMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español Treatments
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
Q: Jennifer from Texas asks: Are there really false-positives from COVID tests? If so, how is it possible for a test to pick up something that is not there? A: Yep, they exist. High-profile false-positive COVID tests are making the news again after Michael Burton of the New Orleans Saints erroneously tested positive the day Read more…
¿Cómo me cuido a mí mismo o a alguien con quien vivo si resultamos positivos de Covid-19?
Families/Kids Posts en Español TreatmentsDaisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial Justice
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
R: La mayoría de los casos de Covid-19 se tratan en casa. Teniendo en cuenta cómo se verá esto en su hogar, puede prepararlo a usted para este evento no deseado pero posible, y ayudar a limitar la propagación de la infección dentro de su hogar. “The Learning Agendy Lab Covid-19 @ Home Toolkit” provee Read more…
It’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day. How are Native Americans doing during COVID-19?
Social and Racial JusticeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: Thank you for drawing attention to this important topic. By now, you’ve probably heard that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Unfortunately, Native American populations are not an exception. ** Native Americans are more than 5 times as likely to be hospitalized than non-Hispanic white Americans. This is a larger COVID-19 Read more…
What do you think of the idea of “focused protection” or “shielding” the vulnerable so that everyone else can get on with normal life?
Clinical Symptoms Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
A: We *wish* it were this easy, but sadly it’s not. While this approach sounds appealing on the surface, the deeper you dig the more the argument collapses in on itself. Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up: • The death and hospitalization toll even in under 65s would be Read more…
