Did the Sturgis bike rally really cause 266,796 new COVID-19 cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Extremely unlikely. (but that doesn’t mean it didn’t increase transmission…) The Nerdy Girls want to give you straight talk about the data whether or not it comports with our pre-existing views (like the general idea that mass gatherings are *not* a good idea during the pandemic). Trust in science relies on having high standards Read more…
Nerdy Girls’ Tribute to Chadwick Boseman
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls join the millions of folks who remain heartbroken about the recent passing of Mr. Chadwick Boseman from colon cancer at the age of 43. From Jackie Robinson to the Black Panther, King T’Challa, Mr. Boseman played Black icons and told beautiful stories through his art. Our thoughts are with his grieving loved Read more…
How do I call bull$hit on COVID misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Be kind. Be correct. Replace fiction with credible fact. Your Nerdy Girls remain committed to providing tools for sleuthing out and slaying pandemic misinformation. Which is why we are so very delighted that a pair of powerhouse scientists, Dr. Carl Bergstrom and Dr. Jevin West, both at University of Washington, have recently published the Read more…
I have my first Zoom doctor’s appointment coming up. Any tips on making it a success?
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! Your Friendly Family MD, a Nerdy Girl collaborator, weighs in with the following recommendations: Find a private place (far away from where your roomie likes to roam half-naked); Call your insurer prior to the visit (no one likes surprise bills!); Pre-check your tech (Zoom gremlins are **real**); Come ready with your concerns (writing Read more…
It’s the first day of virtual school and I’m already losing my mind. How am I going to survive this?
Families/Kids Mental Health School
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Parents, we see you. Parenting in a pandemic is hard. It’s really, really hard. Many parents are being tasked with managing virtual learning, often involving age-inappropriate expectations for our young children to spend hours (and hours) seated/on Zoom calls. All around us, parents–especially moms–are taking leaves of absence from their careers in order to Read more…
Should I buy an air purifier for my home? I’ve heard some people say that the virus particles are too small for HEPA filters to work.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s *probably* a good idea, and HEPA filters easily remove the size particles that carry the virus (the virus does not fly around naked, but embedded in mucus and saliva, yum!). Compared to overstocking Clorox wipes, cleaning your air may provide important COVID-19 protection for you and your family, especially over the winter as Read more…
Why do men suffer more severe COVID-19 and a higher risk of death? Do we know anything new?
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: Extremely unlikely. (but that doesn’t mean it didn’t increase transmission…) The Nerdy Girls want to give you straight talk about the data whether or not it comports with our pre-existing views (like the general idea that mass gatherings are *not* a good idea during the pandemic). Trust in science relies on having high standards Read more…
Nerdy Girls’ Tribute to Chadwick Boseman
Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls join the millions of folks who remain heartbroken about the recent passing of Mr. Chadwick Boseman from colon cancer at the age of 43. From Jackie Robinson to the Black Panther, King T’Challa, Mr. Boseman played Black icons and told beautiful stories through his art. Our thoughts are with his grieving loved Read more…
How do I call bull$hit on COVID misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Be kind. Be correct. Replace fiction with credible fact. Your Nerdy Girls remain committed to providing tools for sleuthing out and slaying pandemic misinformation. Which is why we are so very delighted that a pair of powerhouse scientists, Dr. Carl Bergstrom and Dr. Jevin West, both at University of Washington, have recently published the Read more…
I have my first Zoom doctor’s appointment coming up. Any tips on making it a success?
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! Your Friendly Family MD, a Nerdy Girl collaborator, weighs in with the following recommendations: Find a private place (far away from where your roomie likes to roam half-naked); Call your insurer prior to the visit (no one likes surprise bills!); Pre-check your tech (Zoom gremlins are **real**); Come ready with your concerns (writing Read more…
It’s the first day of virtual school and I’m already losing my mind. How am I going to survive this?
Families/Kids Mental Health School
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Parents, we see you. Parenting in a pandemic is hard. It’s really, really hard. Many parents are being tasked with managing virtual learning, often involving age-inappropriate expectations for our young children to spend hours (and hours) seated/on Zoom calls. All around us, parents–especially moms–are taking leaves of absence from their careers in order to Read more…
Should I buy an air purifier for my home? I’ve heard some people say that the virus particles are too small for HEPA filters to work.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s *probably* a good idea, and HEPA filters easily remove the size particles that carry the virus (the virus does not fly around naked, but embedded in mucus and saliva, yum!). Compared to overstocking Clorox wipes, cleaning your air may provide important COVID-19 protection for you and your family, especially over the winter as Read more…
Why do men suffer more severe COVID-19 and a higher risk of death? Do we know anything new?
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
The Nerdy Girls join the millions of folks who remain heartbroken about the recent passing of Mr. Chadwick Boseman from colon cancer at the age of 43. From Jackie Robinson to the Black Panther, King T’Challa, Mr. Boseman played Black icons and told beautiful stories through his art. Our thoughts are with his grieving loved Read more…
How do I call bull$hit on COVID misinformation?
Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Be kind. Be correct. Replace fiction with credible fact. Your Nerdy Girls remain committed to providing tools for sleuthing out and slaying pandemic misinformation. Which is why we are so very delighted that a pair of powerhouse scientists, Dr. Carl Bergstrom and Dr. Jevin West, both at University of Washington, have recently published the Read more…
I have my first Zoom doctor’s appointment coming up. Any tips on making it a success?
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! Your Friendly Family MD, a Nerdy Girl collaborator, weighs in with the following recommendations: Find a private place (far away from where your roomie likes to roam half-naked); Call your insurer prior to the visit (no one likes surprise bills!); Pre-check your tech (Zoom gremlins are **real**); Come ready with your concerns (writing Read more…
It’s the first day of virtual school and I’m already losing my mind. How am I going to survive this?
Families/Kids Mental Health School
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Parents, we see you. Parenting in a pandemic is hard. It’s really, really hard. Many parents are being tasked with managing virtual learning, often involving age-inappropriate expectations for our young children to spend hours (and hours) seated/on Zoom calls. All around us, parents–especially moms–are taking leaves of absence from their careers in order to Read more…
Should I buy an air purifier for my home? I’ve heard some people say that the virus particles are too small for HEPA filters to work.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s *probably* a good idea, and HEPA filters easily remove the size particles that carry the virus (the virus does not fly around naked, but embedded in mucus and saliva, yum!). Compared to overstocking Clorox wipes, cleaning your air may provide important COVID-19 protection for you and your family, especially over the winter as Read more…
Why do men suffer more severe COVID-19 and a higher risk of death? Do we know anything new?
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: Be kind. Be correct. Replace fiction with credible fact. Your Nerdy Girls remain committed to providing tools for sleuthing out and slaying pandemic misinformation. Which is why we are so very delighted that a pair of powerhouse scientists, Dr. Carl Bergstrom and Dr. Jevin West, both at University of Washington, have recently published the Read more…
I have my first Zoom doctor’s appointment coming up. Any tips on making it a success?
Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! Your Friendly Family MD, a Nerdy Girl collaborator, weighs in with the following recommendations: Find a private place (far away from where your roomie likes to roam half-naked); Call your insurer prior to the visit (no one likes surprise bills!); Pre-check your tech (Zoom gremlins are **real**); Come ready with your concerns (writing Read more…
It’s the first day of virtual school and I’m already losing my mind. How am I going to survive this?
Families/Kids Mental Health School
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Parents, we see you. Parenting in a pandemic is hard. It’s really, really hard. Many parents are being tasked with managing virtual learning, often involving age-inappropriate expectations for our young children to spend hours (and hours) seated/on Zoom calls. All around us, parents–especially moms–are taking leaves of absence from their careers in order to Read more…
Should I buy an air purifier for my home? I’ve heard some people say that the virus particles are too small for HEPA filters to work.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s *probably* a good idea, and HEPA filters easily remove the size particles that carry the virus (the virus does not fly around naked, but embedded in mucus and saliva, yum!). Compared to overstocking Clorox wipes, cleaning your air may provide important COVID-19 protection for you and your family, especially over the winter as Read more…
Why do men suffer more severe COVID-19 and a higher risk of death? Do we know anything new?
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: Yes! Your Friendly Family MD, a Nerdy Girl collaborator, weighs in with the following recommendations: Find a private place (far away from where your roomie likes to roam half-naked); Call your insurer prior to the visit (no one likes surprise bills!); Pre-check your tech (Zoom gremlins are **real**); Come ready with your concerns (writing Read more…
It’s the first day of virtual school and I’m already losing my mind. How am I going to survive this?
Families/Kids Mental Health SchoolMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Parents, we see you. Parenting in a pandemic is hard. It’s really, really hard. Many parents are being tasked with managing virtual learning, often involving age-inappropriate expectations for our young children to spend hours (and hours) seated/on Zoom calls. All around us, parents–especially moms–are taking leaves of absence from their careers in order to Read more…
Should I buy an air purifier for my home? I’ve heard some people say that the virus particles are too small for HEPA filters to work.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s *probably* a good idea, and HEPA filters easily remove the size particles that carry the virus (the virus does not fly around naked, but embedded in mucus and saliva, yum!). Compared to overstocking Clorox wipes, cleaning your air may provide important COVID-19 protection for you and your family, especially over the winter as Read more…
Why do men suffer more severe COVID-19 and a higher risk of death? Do we know anything new?
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: Parents, we see you. Parenting in a pandemic is hard. It’s really, really hard. Many parents are being tasked with managing virtual learning, often involving age-inappropriate expectations for our young children to spend hours (and hours) seated/on Zoom calls. All around us, parents–especially moms–are taking leaves of absence from their careers in order to Read more…
Should I buy an air purifier for my home? I’ve heard some people say that the virus particles are too small for HEPA filters to work.
Infection and Spread Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s *probably* a good idea, and HEPA filters easily remove the size particles that carry the virus (the virus does not fly around naked, but embedded in mucus and saliva, yum!). Compared to overstocking Clorox wipes, cleaning your air may provide important COVID-19 protection for you and your family, especially over the winter as Read more…
Why do men suffer more severe COVID-19 and a higher risk of death? Do we know anything new?
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: It’s *probably* a good idea, and HEPA filters easily remove the size particles that carry the virus (the virus does not fly around naked, but embedded in mucus and saliva, yum!). Compared to overstocking Clorox wipes, cleaning your air may provide important COVID-19 protection for you and your family, especially over the winter as Read more…
Why do men suffer more severe COVID-19 and a higher risk of death? Do we know anything new?
Biology/Immunity Clinical SymptomsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: Women may mount a stronger T cell response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to a recent paper in Nature from the lab of immunologist Dr. Akiko Iwasaki. In the study, researchers collected blood, saliva and other samples from 17 men and 22 women aged 60+ admitted to the hospital after a positive COVID-19 test and Read more…
Nerdies in the News
Dear Pandemic Q&A
Biology/Immunity Clinical Symptoms Infection and Spread VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
Dear Pandemic: Follower Questions–Sept 5, 2020 Dr. Malia Jones and Dr. Lindsey Leininger crack open the follower question box and tackle your questions on this Facebook Live! https://youtu.be/ov96pXvAkQ8 Link to original FB post
Dear Pandemic Videos
https://youtu.be/X9APmVZ-muM 9-19-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Jennifer Beam Dowd Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD answer followers’ questions from this week’s Question Box. https://youtu.be/sUjiCnZu8mQ 9-12-20 Q&A with Malia Jones and Lindsey Leininger Dear Pandemic Nerdy Girls Malia Jones, PhD, MPH and Lindsey Leininger, PhD answer followers’ questions Read more…
Update on Herd Immunity
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
Update: We know there is on-going chatter about herd immunity. We are re-posting the explainer below, as little has changed as far as the assumptions for what it would take to achieve “natural” herd immunity. TL;DR: it’s bleak. Even at a theoretically lower threshold (50% vs 70%), the expected number of deaths is devastating. So Read more…
Did the CDC just say there would be a vaccine ready on November 1?
VaccinesAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying Safe
A: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: Nope, but they did make some requests to state public health officials that have a lot of folks reading the vaccine tea leaves. So what actually went down? On August 27, Dr. Robert Redfield, Director of the CDC, sent a letter to state governors asking that they expedite requests from McKesson Corporation for permits Read more…
I am a college student heading back to campus. How can I make sure that my friends and I stay safe?
Families/Kids Reopening School Socializing Staying SafeA: Preparation is key. Expect that someone you know may test positive for COVID-19. Know the steps to take to stay safe. Here are a few tips (https://wapo.st/31O0jF8). Step 1: Get your flu shot! Policies will vary by campus, but rule of thumb is that you should plan to get your flu shot by mid-October Read more…
Is trick-or-treat cancelled?
Families/Kids Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: No! The kids’ Halloween is not ruined. Like most things, Halloween is going to be different, but with a little creativity, we CAN have a safe version of trick-or-treat. Fortunately, most Halloween traditions in the U.S. are compatible with COVID harm reduction basics: wear a mask, keep it outdoors, and avoid crowds. Some parts Read more…
I still have *so* many questions about aerosol transmission.
Infection and Spread Staying SafeAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
Q: Like, how long does one need to inhale infectious aerosol to be infected? How long can the virus stay in the air indoors? Is there a risk of aerosol transmission outdoors? A: This is your lucky day. An incredible team of scientists who study aerosol transmission of COVID-19 (including some we’ve cited here on Read more…
So the CDC just released data that said 94% of U.S. COVID-19 deaths had underlying medical conditions?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Uncertainty and MisinformationJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
A: FALSE. We’ve heard this interpretation is making the rounds, but it’s just not correct. What did the CDC data say? The report summarized all deaths in the U.S. from Feb until August 22nd with COVID-19 on the death certificate (161,392 total deaths). The CDC reports that for 6% of these deaths COVID-19 was the Read more…
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Tita Smyth Escobedo, a native Spanish speaker, a Clinical Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in Project Management, and 5+ years of experience in Web Development and Social Media, she understands the psychology behind the clients’ needs. Tita owns her own business, where she is in charge of coordinating work with developers, designers, and consultants, Read more…
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
Gretchen Peterson is a retired Instructional Technology Specialist who spent twenty-nine years as an educator for grades 4-8 in private Episcopal schools in Dallas, TX. She specialized in teaching students technology, research, and entrepreneurial skills as well as providing technology support and education to faculty and staff. She holds an MEd from the University of Read more…
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Dr. Aparna Kumar is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who works to ensure that mental health care is accessible, evidence based, and integrated across health care settings. Her research aims to improve outcomes for women, children and families by showing how and why mental health influences many aspects of our lives. She is Read more…
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Ashley Z. Ritter, APRN, PhD is a geriatric nurse practitioner and the Chief Executive Officer of Dear Pandemic. She is also an Embedded Nurse Scientist and the Director of Clinical Care Research at NewCourtland, a provider of housing, health, and care management services in Philadelphia, PA. She recently completed a postdoctoral fellowship in the National Read more…
