Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Lindsey Leininger & Malia Jones tackle your COVID questions, including what’s up with curfews, immunity passes, and declining death rates. ➡️ Intro and website info (:00 – 3:59) ➡️ Lightning round (4:00 – 9:39) ➡️ Immunity: personal + herd (9:40 – 17:55) ➡️ Curfews to curb spread? (18:30 – 25:15) ➡️ Cases up, death Read more…
I heard there was a large COVID-19 outbreak at an overnight summer school retreat in WI. What happened?!
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
When will we have a vaccine for COVID? When will life return back to normal?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
¿Podría proveer alguna actualización sobre la seguridad de viajar en avión en este momento, antes de los días festivos?
Posts en Español Staying Safe Travel
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡Si! Algunos estudios nuevos sugieren que el riesgo de transmisión de COVID-19 en aviones es bajo *cuando se usa la mascarilla constantemente*. Mientras esto es una buena noticia, otros aspectos de viajar todavía presentan la oportunidad de exponerse a SARS-CoV-2 en ruta a su destino, así que siguiendo las precauciones #eSMART durante las celebraciones Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
Drs. Lindsey Leininger & Malia Jones tackle your COVID questions, including what’s up with curfews, immunity passes, and declining death rates. ➡️ Intro and website info (:00 – 3:59) ➡️ Lightning round (4:00 – 9:39) ➡️ Immunity: personal + herd (9:40 – 17:55) ➡️ Curfews to curb spread? (18:30 – 25:15) ➡️ Cases up, death Read more…
I heard there was a large COVID-19 outbreak at an overnight summer school retreat in WI. What happened?!
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
When will we have a vaccine for COVID? When will life return back to normal?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
¿Podría proveer alguna actualización sobre la seguridad de viajar en avión en este momento, antes de los días festivos?
Posts en Español Staying Safe Travel
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡Si! Algunos estudios nuevos sugieren que el riesgo de transmisión de COVID-19 en aviones es bajo *cuando se usa la mascarilla constantemente*. Mientras esto es una buena noticia, otros aspectos de viajar todavía presentan la oportunidad de exponerse a SARS-CoV-2 en ruta a su destino, así que siguiendo las precauciones #eSMART durante las celebraciones Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
When will we have a vaccine for COVID? When will life return back to normal?!
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
¿Podría proveer alguna actualización sobre la seguridad de viajar en avión en este momento, antes de los días festivos?
Posts en Español Staying Safe Travel
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡Si! Algunos estudios nuevos sugieren que el riesgo de transmisión de COVID-19 en aviones es bajo *cuando se usa la mascarilla constantemente*. Mientras esto es una buena noticia, otros aspectos de viajar todavía presentan la oportunidad de exponerse a SARS-CoV-2 en ruta a su destino, así que siguiendo las precauciones #eSMART durante las celebraciones Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental HealthSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
¿Podría proveer alguna actualización sobre la seguridad de viajar en avión en este momento, antes de los días festivos?
Posts en Español Staying Safe Travel
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡Si! Algunos estudios nuevos sugieren que el riesgo de transmisión de COVID-19 en aviones es bajo *cuando se usa la mascarilla constantemente*. Mientras esto es una buena noticia, otros aspectos de viajar todavía presentan la oportunidad de exponerse a SARS-CoV-2 en ruta a su destino, así que siguiendo las precauciones #eSMART durante las celebraciones Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
¿Podría proveer alguna actualización sobre la seguridad de viajar en avión en este momento, antes de los días festivos?
Posts en Español Staying Safe TravelDaisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡Si! Algunos estudios nuevos sugieren que el riesgo de transmisión de COVID-19 en aviones es bajo *cuando se usa la mascarilla constantemente*. Mientras esto es una buena noticia, otros aspectos de viajar todavía presentan la oportunidad de exponerse a SARS-CoV-2 en ruta a su destino, así que siguiendo las precauciones #eSMART durante las celebraciones Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
R: ¡Si! Algunos estudios nuevos sugieren que el riesgo de transmisión de COVID-19 en aviones es bajo *cuando se usa la mascarilla constantemente*. Mientras esto es una buena noticia, otros aspectos de viajar todavía presentan la oportunidad de exponerse a SARS-CoV-2 en ruta a su destino, así que siguiendo las precauciones #eSMART durante las celebraciones Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Daisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
¿Cómo me mantengo seguro cuando vaya a votar en persona?
Posts en Español Staying SafeDaisey Velazquez, Spanish Translation
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
R: ¡La preparación es clave! Puede protegerse a sí mismo y los demás mientras ejerce su derecho al voto. Si planea votar en persona el día de las elecciones o por adelantado, lea a continuación los consejos sobre cómo prepararse y cómo mantenerse seguro cuando esté en su lugar de votación. Aunque el riesgo no Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
My college-age son and several of his friends had COVID19 while they were away at school.
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
Q: Is it safe to allow them to spend a few days at our house over Thanksgiving? Can they still spread the virus? A: So long as your son (and friends) have been fever-free for 24 hours, it’s been at least 10 days since he was diagnosed, and his symptoms are getting better then you Read more…
Does the new CDC guidance about avoiding 15 minutes cumulative contact mean with masks or without masks?
Infection and Spread Masks Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying Safe
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: In the community setting, someone who meets the criteria for being a close contact to a case of COVID-19, meets the criteria REGARDLESS of whether or not they or the case had on a mask. Why is someone considered a close contact regardless of whether they had on a mask? While cloth masks are Read more…
Preferiría votar en persona ¿Cuáles son mis opciones?
Posts en Español Staying SafeTita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
P: Preferiría votar en persona, pero me preocupan las largas filas y la aglomeración de gente el día de las elecciones. ¿Cuáles son mis opciones? R: Depende del estado donde viva. Como recordatorio, el día de las elecciones en los EE. UU. es este martes 3 de noviembre pero en muchos estados se puede votar Read more…
What are the hallmarks of high-quality reporting?
Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: Look for the ABCs of ethical journalism: Accountability; Balance; and Credibility Background: At its best, news reporting serves as an honest umpire, dispassionately calling the balls and strikes of current events.* But let’s get real: It can be hard to spot an honest ump right now. Anyone with a keyboard can become a self-styled Read more…
How can I stay safe while voting in person?
Staying SafeRebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
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…
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…
A: Preparation is key! You CAN protect yourself and others while still exercising your right to vote. Whether you’re voting in person on or before Election Day, read on for what to prepare and how to stay safe while you’re there. While it is not ZERO risk, a few safety protocols can go a long Read more…
What do we currently know about SARS-CoV-2 re-infection?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadJennifer 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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
