My state is starting to re-open, but it isn’t clear when or if childcare or camps will be available in my area–what will we do with the kids all summer?!?
Families/Kids Reopening Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: As states move away from stay at home orders and change recommendations to permit gatherings of slightly larger groups, one option for addressing childcare needs may be for two families (i.e., households) to join together to form a slightly bigger “bubble”. Under this approach, two households combine exclusively (i.e., minimize all other outside contacts). Read more…
I’m still confused about the difference between an INCUBATION period and an INFECTIOUS period.
Infection and Spread
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Coronavirus 101 explainer, please!!! A: We empathize – there are so many terms to learn. For us, too! It’s literally impossible to be an expert on every dimension of the pandemic). This timeline courtesy of the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health helpfully visualizes the two concepts, along with how they link up chronologically. Here Read more…
Is it safe to go back to the gym?
Reopening
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sadly, the answer is NO. Gyms are tricky environments for infection control. Below are a few of the challenges posed by Covid-19 in gyms and potential adjustments to lessen risks. If you can afford to do so, MAINTAIN YOUR GYM MEMBERSHIP FEES while taking a break from visits. Workout equipment is used by multiple Read more…
My teen seems to need more independence with friends, home routine, and schedule? I feel terrible about all the missed events this year (graduation, starting college, sports). Wouldn’t it help them if we relaxed a little bit with our rules?
Families/Kids Mental Health Socializing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Social activity (i.e. school and the life it creates) is critical for young people and their development. They are also beginning to express themselves as individuals, to create their own support networks, to have freedom to their identity, and to simply spend time outside of the home. However, all of this Read more…
How is it possible for my region to increase their testing when they have limited testing supplies?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Group testing! Simply put, you combine several samples and test them all at once. If the combined sample comes back negative, you know that all the patients in that group do not have COVID-19. If it comes back positive, you go back and do individual tests on the same samples. This group-testing strategy is Read more…
Tell me more about convalescent plasma as a form of treatment for COVID-19. Does it really work? Can I donate antibodies to help others if I have recovered from COVID-19?
Treatments
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Convalescent plasma is a treatment that’s more than a century old and has been previously used as treatment for other infectious diseases, including the 1918 Pandemic Flu, MERS, and the 2003 outbreak of SARS. It involves taking antibody-rich blood plasma from recovered, healthy donors, and transfusing it into patients with severe disease as a Read more…
Does UV light kill the virus? Should I buy one of these UV sanitizing devices I keep seeing in my social media ads?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: As states move away from stay at home orders and change recommendations to permit gatherings of slightly larger groups, one option for addressing childcare needs may be for two families (i.e., households) to join together to form a slightly bigger “bubble”. Under this approach, two households combine exclusively (i.e., minimize all other outside contacts). Read more…
I’m still confused about the difference between an INCUBATION period and an INFECTIOUS period.
Infection and SpreadLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Coronavirus 101 explainer, please!!! A: We empathize – there are so many terms to learn. For us, too! It’s literally impossible to be an expert on every dimension of the pandemic). This timeline courtesy of the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health helpfully visualizes the two concepts, along with how they link up chronologically. Here Read more…
Is it safe to go back to the gym?
Reopening
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sadly, the answer is NO. Gyms are tricky environments for infection control. Below are a few of the challenges posed by Covid-19 in gyms and potential adjustments to lessen risks. If you can afford to do so, MAINTAIN YOUR GYM MEMBERSHIP FEES while taking a break from visits. Workout equipment is used by multiple Read more…
My teen seems to need more independence with friends, home routine, and schedule? I feel terrible about all the missed events this year (graduation, starting college, sports). Wouldn’t it help them if we relaxed a little bit with our rules?
Families/Kids Mental Health Socializing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Social activity (i.e. school and the life it creates) is critical for young people and their development. They are also beginning to express themselves as individuals, to create their own support networks, to have freedom to their identity, and to simply spend time outside of the home. However, all of this Read more…
How is it possible for my region to increase their testing when they have limited testing supplies?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Group testing! Simply put, you combine several samples and test them all at once. If the combined sample comes back negative, you know that all the patients in that group do not have COVID-19. If it comes back positive, you go back and do individual tests on the same samples. This group-testing strategy is Read more…
Tell me more about convalescent plasma as a form of treatment for COVID-19. Does it really work? Can I donate antibodies to help others if I have recovered from COVID-19?
Treatments
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Convalescent plasma is a treatment that’s more than a century old and has been previously used as treatment for other infectious diseases, including the 1918 Pandemic Flu, MERS, and the 2003 outbreak of SARS. It involves taking antibody-rich blood plasma from recovered, healthy donors, and transfusing it into patients with severe disease as a Read more…
Does UV light kill the virus? Should I buy one of these UV sanitizing devices I keep seeing in my social media ads?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
Coronavirus 101 explainer, please!!! A: We empathize – there are so many terms to learn. For us, too! It’s literally impossible to be an expert on every dimension of the pandemic). This timeline courtesy of the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health helpfully visualizes the two concepts, along with how they link up chronologically. Here Read more…
Is it safe to go back to the gym?
ReopeningLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sadly, the answer is NO. Gyms are tricky environments for infection control. Below are a few of the challenges posed by Covid-19 in gyms and potential adjustments to lessen risks. If you can afford to do so, MAINTAIN YOUR GYM MEMBERSHIP FEES while taking a break from visits. Workout equipment is used by multiple Read more…
My teen seems to need more independence with friends, home routine, and schedule? I feel terrible about all the missed events this year (graduation, starting college, sports). Wouldn’t it help them if we relaxed a little bit with our rules?
Families/Kids Mental Health Socializing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Social activity (i.e. school and the life it creates) is critical for young people and their development. They are also beginning to express themselves as individuals, to create their own support networks, to have freedom to their identity, and to simply spend time outside of the home. However, all of this Read more…
How is it possible for my region to increase their testing when they have limited testing supplies?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Group testing! Simply put, you combine several samples and test them all at once. If the combined sample comes back negative, you know that all the patients in that group do not have COVID-19. If it comes back positive, you go back and do individual tests on the same samples. This group-testing strategy is Read more…
Tell me more about convalescent plasma as a form of treatment for COVID-19. Does it really work? Can I donate antibodies to help others if I have recovered from COVID-19?
Treatments
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Convalescent plasma is a treatment that’s more than a century old and has been previously used as treatment for other infectious diseases, including the 1918 Pandemic Flu, MERS, and the 2003 outbreak of SARS. It involves taking antibody-rich blood plasma from recovered, healthy donors, and transfusing it into patients with severe disease as a Read more…
Does UV light kill the virus? Should I buy one of these UV sanitizing devices I keep seeing in my social media ads?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: Sadly, the answer is NO. Gyms are tricky environments for infection control. Below are a few of the challenges posed by Covid-19 in gyms and potential adjustments to lessen risks. If you can afford to do so, MAINTAIN YOUR GYM MEMBERSHIP FEES while taking a break from visits. Workout equipment is used by multiple Read more…
My teen seems to need more independence with friends, home routine, and schedule? I feel terrible about all the missed events this year (graduation, starting college, sports). Wouldn’t it help them if we relaxed a little bit with our rules?
Families/Kids Mental Health SocializingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Social activity (i.e. school and the life it creates) is critical for young people and their development. They are also beginning to express themselves as individuals, to create their own support networks, to have freedom to their identity, and to simply spend time outside of the home. However, all of this Read more…
How is it possible for my region to increase their testing when they have limited testing supplies?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Group testing! Simply put, you combine several samples and test them all at once. If the combined sample comes back negative, you know that all the patients in that group do not have COVID-19. If it comes back positive, you go back and do individual tests on the same samples. This group-testing strategy is Read more…
Tell me more about convalescent plasma as a form of treatment for COVID-19. Does it really work? Can I donate antibodies to help others if I have recovered from COVID-19?
Treatments
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Convalescent plasma is a treatment that’s more than a century old and has been previously used as treatment for other infectious diseases, including the 1918 Pandemic Flu, MERS, and the 2003 outbreak of SARS. It involves taking antibody-rich blood plasma from recovered, healthy donors, and transfusing it into patients with severe disease as a Read more…
Does UV light kill the virus? Should I buy one of these UV sanitizing devices I keep seeing in my social media ads?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: Yes and no. Social activity (i.e. school and the life it creates) is critical for young people and their development. They are also beginning to express themselves as individuals, to create their own support networks, to have freedom to their identity, and to simply spend time outside of the home. However, all of this Read more…
How is it possible for my region to increase their testing when they have limited testing supplies?
Testing and Contact TracingLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Group testing! Simply put, you combine several samples and test them all at once. If the combined sample comes back negative, you know that all the patients in that group do not have COVID-19. If it comes back positive, you go back and do individual tests on the same samples. This group-testing strategy is Read more…
Tell me more about convalescent plasma as a form of treatment for COVID-19. Does it really work? Can I donate antibodies to help others if I have recovered from COVID-19?
Treatments
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Convalescent plasma is a treatment that’s more than a century old and has been previously used as treatment for other infectious diseases, including the 1918 Pandemic Flu, MERS, and the 2003 outbreak of SARS. It involves taking antibody-rich blood plasma from recovered, healthy donors, and transfusing it into patients with severe disease as a Read more…
Does UV light kill the virus? Should I buy one of these UV sanitizing devices I keep seeing in my social media ads?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: Group testing! Simply put, you combine several samples and test them all at once. If the combined sample comes back negative, you know that all the patients in that group do not have COVID-19. If it comes back positive, you go back and do individual tests on the same samples. This group-testing strategy is Read more…
Tell me more about convalescent plasma as a form of treatment for COVID-19. Does it really work? Can I donate antibodies to help others if I have recovered from COVID-19?
TreatmentsSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Convalescent plasma is a treatment that’s more than a century old and has been previously used as treatment for other infectious diseases, including the 1918 Pandemic Flu, MERS, and the 2003 outbreak of SARS. It involves taking antibody-rich blood plasma from recovered, healthy donors, and transfusing it into patients with severe disease as a Read more…
Does UV light kill the virus? Should I buy one of these UV sanitizing devices I keep seeing in my social media ads?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A. Convalescent plasma is a treatment that’s more than a century old and has been previously used as treatment for other infectious diseases, including the 1918 Pandemic Flu, MERS, and the 2003 outbreak of SARS. It involves taking antibody-rich blood plasma from recovered, healthy donors, and transfusing it into patients with severe disease as a Read more…
Does UV light kill the virus? Should I buy one of these UV sanitizing devices I keep seeing in my social media ads?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: Certain types of UV light *might* be able to help sanitize surfaces and air, but it’s still early days. Important: UV light CANNOT kill the virus if the virus is already inside of the body. Further, it’s not currently deemed safe to use so-called “UV sanitizers” on the body, because of damage to the Read more…
How high a priority is it to get my kid to the pediatrician’s office for routine vaccines? Is it safe to go there?!?
Families/Kids Staying SafeAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical Symptoms
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: High priority. Super high. *Please* try to keep your kids up-to-date on their vaccination schedule. It’s better for them, and better for all, but there is evidence that coverage is slipping as parents skip or delay well-child visits. Wrapping up our weekend special series on kids + COVID with an up-close look at a Read more…
Why are people with COVID-19 suddenly developing blood clots?
Clinical SymptomsAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: While it is scary, it isn’t surprising. We still don’t know why this is happening. But here are a few key hopeful points. 1-This isn’t rare. Clots have long been a concern for critically ill patients in the ICU. We have also seen similar patterns in previous viral outbreaks (H1N1, SARS). Given the rise Read more…
Should I just get it over with and go to a ‘COVID party’?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread Staying SafeAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/Kids
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: For the love of peanut butter and jelly, please NO, 1000 X NO! “Health officials in a county in southern Washington state say a rise in coronavirus cases is linked to “COVID-19 parties.” NBC News Link “Walla Walla County health officials are receiving reports of COVID-19 parties occurring in our community, where noninfected people Read more…
Is it morbid or wrong to start a conversation about end-of-life wishes with my family right now?
Families/KidsAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: NO! Now is a GREAT time to talk about end-of-life wishes with your inner circle. Talking about death can feel uncomfortable, but there are several benefits to doing this early and often. First, it’s really easy to misunderstand your family members’ wishes without a specific conversation. Opportunities to have conversations are better suited before Read more…
What’s the latest testing news?!
Testing and Contact TracingLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: The FDA has granted emergency authorization to pharmaceutical company Roche for a new antibody test that is much more accurate than existing options. Quick reminder about antibody testing: It provides information about PAST (as opposed to current) infections. Reason for optimism: The new test has much (!) better accuracy than others on the market, Read more…
What is a contact tracer?
Testing and Contact TracingAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
Q2: Can I get hired to do contact tracing? Q3: Will the Apple/Google phone tracing technology replace the need for contact tracers? A1: A contact tracer… traces contacts! In an infectious disease outbreak, a contract tracer talks to people who have tested positive for the disease (a “case”) to find out all the people they Read more…
Help! I am confused by all of the various types of COVID tests!
Testing and Contact TracingLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: NPR has a great cheat sheet describing the three major types of COVID tests under discussion: (1) PCR – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of genetic material in mucus; (2) Antibodies – Test for PAST INFECTIONS in the blood; (3) Antigen – Test for CURRENTLY ACTIVE infections via identification of proteins in Read more…
Where can I direct my energy to safely help my community at this challenging time?
Social and Racial Justice Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: Each of us has something valuable to contribute to our communities. In this time of great uncertainty, volunteering can build unity for a common cause and provide a helpful outlet for the mixed bag of emotions. The Corporation for National and Community Service has compiled a thoughtful list of volunteer opportunities to keep you Read more…
Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare!
Families/Kids Staying SafeSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
Q: Parenting young children while infected with COVID-19: This sounds like a nightmare! Is there anything I can do to prepare for such a scenario? A. First, let’s acknowledge – yes this is a nightmare. The virus and the need for social distancing has stripped families of their caregiver networks, forcing parents (or a single Read more…
When comparing COVID-19 cases across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size or just the total number of cases?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and SpreadAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
Q: If I want to look at graphs of COVID-19 cases and compare across countries, should I look at graphs that are adjusted for country population size (for example, number of cases per 100,000 people) or just the total number of cases? A: Hey, whatever floats your boat, we won’t judge, but there’s a good Read more…
Should those who have had COVID-19 and recovered be issued an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate”?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening School
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: The World Health Organization states, “At this point in the pandemic, there is not enough evidence about the effectiveness of antibody-mediated immunity to guarantee the accuracy of an “immunity passport” or “risk-free certificate.”” Main reasons why: Laboratory tests that detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in people need further validation to determine their accuracy and reliability Read more…
My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open?
Families/Kids Reopening SchoolAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/Kids
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
Q: Help! My kid is supposed to start or return to college in the fall. Will colleges even be open? Our family isn’t that excited about Zoom U. A: Very few colleges have announced firm plans; many more plan to do so by mid-June or early July. Figuring how to safely re-open is a daunting Read more…
What are COVID toes?
Clinical Symptoms Families/KidsLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
A: COVID toes refer to a frostbite-like skin rash on fingers and toes that may be a symptom of COVID-19, causing the skin to feel hot or itchy. This symptom may be more common among younger and asymptomatic patients. So, in addition to sniffing your kids’ stinky socks (to test how your own sense of Read more…
