Is daily employee temperature screening sufficient to prevent the spread of COVID at work?
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Sadly, no. Not even close. As society slowly gets “back to business” employers are working hard to figure out how best to keep employees and their families safe. While employers will have large latitude to implement policies that work best for their specific contexts, the CDC and affiliated state and local agencies have set 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…
Should I be worried about my child spreading COVID-19 and/or getting strange and serious COVID-19 symptoms?
Clinical Symptoms Data and Metrics Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: If we look at the data to date (we can’t know about data that we don’t have!), children are much less likely to get COVID-19 than adults after exposure. The data also tell us that it is likely that fewer children are infected in the community than adults and that they are less likely Read more…
What is Kawasaki disease? Is it linked to Covid-19 in children?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Kawasaki disease is a rare inflammatory condition that affects children, typically under 5 years of age. Cases of Kawasaki-like illness, currently referred to as Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome, appear to be linked to Covid-19 infection. This condition remains a very rare complication of Covid-19 in children and teenagers. Further tracking and study is required. Read more…
Are doctors over-reporting COVID-19 deaths?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Nope. Based on recent data from the CDC, we can see that starting in mid-March there have been thousands of excess deaths (overall deaths compared to historical mortality patterns) that have not been counted as COVID-19 deaths. This likely under-reporting of COVID-19 deaths is especially true in places that have been harder hit by Read more…
Shelter-in-place orders are beginning to lift in my area. What activities are safe to resume?
Reopening Socializing Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: “The safest thing you can do, if you are able, is to stay at home.” The rationale for reopening states varies with persistent health risks posed by Covid-19. With more options for social engagement, the next phase of the pandemic will require each of us to make choices on what to resume, how to Read more…
Help!! How do I figure out if a news story is SOLID or SENSATIONAL?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: Sadly, no. Not even close. As society slowly gets “back to business” employers are working hard to figure out how best to keep employees and their families safe. While employers will have large latitude to implement policies that work best for their specific contexts, the CDC and affiliated state and local agencies have set 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…
Should I be worried about my child spreading COVID-19 and/or getting strange and serious COVID-19 symptoms?
Clinical Symptoms Data and Metrics Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: If we look at the data to date (we can’t know about data that we don’t have!), children are much less likely to get COVID-19 than adults after exposure. The data also tell us that it is likely that fewer children are infected in the community than adults and that they are less likely Read more…
What is Kawasaki disease? Is it linked to Covid-19 in children?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Kawasaki disease is a rare inflammatory condition that affects children, typically under 5 years of age. Cases of Kawasaki-like illness, currently referred to as Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome, appear to be linked to Covid-19 infection. This condition remains a very rare complication of Covid-19 in children and teenagers. Further tracking and study is required. Read more…
Are doctors over-reporting COVID-19 deaths?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Nope. Based on recent data from the CDC, we can see that starting in mid-March there have been thousands of excess deaths (overall deaths compared to historical mortality patterns) that have not been counted as COVID-19 deaths. This likely under-reporting of COVID-19 deaths is especially true in places that have been harder hit by Read more…
Shelter-in-place orders are beginning to lift in my area. What activities are safe to resume?
Reopening Socializing Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: “The safest thing you can do, if you are able, is to stay at home.” The rationale for reopening states varies with persistent health risks posed by Covid-19. With more options for social engagement, the next phase of the pandemic will require each of us to make choices on what to resume, how to Read more…
Help!! How do I figure out if a news story is SOLID or SENSATIONAL?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks 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…
Should I be worried about my child spreading COVID-19 and/or getting strange and serious COVID-19 symptoms?
Clinical Symptoms Data and Metrics Families/Kids Infection and SpreadAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: If we look at the data to date (we can’t know about data that we don’t have!), children are much less likely to get COVID-19 than adults after exposure. The data also tell us that it is likely that fewer children are infected in the community than adults and that they are less likely Read more…
What is Kawasaki disease? Is it linked to Covid-19 in children?
Clinical Symptoms
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Kawasaki disease is a rare inflammatory condition that affects children, typically under 5 years of age. Cases of Kawasaki-like illness, currently referred to as Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome, appear to be linked to Covid-19 infection. This condition remains a very rare complication of Covid-19 in children and teenagers. Further tracking and study is required. Read more…
Are doctors over-reporting COVID-19 deaths?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Nope. Based on recent data from the CDC, we can see that starting in mid-March there have been thousands of excess deaths (overall deaths compared to historical mortality patterns) that have not been counted as COVID-19 deaths. This likely under-reporting of COVID-19 deaths is especially true in places that have been harder hit by Read more…
Shelter-in-place orders are beginning to lift in my area. What activities are safe to resume?
Reopening Socializing Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: “The safest thing you can do, if you are able, is to stay at home.” The rationale for reopening states varies with persistent health risks posed by Covid-19. With more options for social engagement, the next phase of the pandemic will require each of us to make choices on what to resume, how to Read more…
Help!! How do I figure out if a news story is SOLID or SENSATIONAL?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: If we look at the data to date (we can’t know about data that we don’t have!), children are much less likely to get COVID-19 than adults after exposure. The data also tell us that it is likely that fewer children are infected in the community than adults and that they are less likely Read more…
What is Kawasaki disease? Is it linked to Covid-19 in children?
Clinical SymptomsAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Kawasaki disease is a rare inflammatory condition that affects children, typically under 5 years of age. Cases of Kawasaki-like illness, currently referred to as Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome, appear to be linked to Covid-19 infection. This condition remains a very rare complication of Covid-19 in children and teenagers. Further tracking and study is required. Read more…
Are doctors over-reporting COVID-19 deaths?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Nope. Based on recent data from the CDC, we can see that starting in mid-March there have been thousands of excess deaths (overall deaths compared to historical mortality patterns) that have not been counted as COVID-19 deaths. This likely under-reporting of COVID-19 deaths is especially true in places that have been harder hit by Read more…
Shelter-in-place orders are beginning to lift in my area. What activities are safe to resume?
Reopening Socializing Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: “The safest thing you can do, if you are able, is to stay at home.” The rationale for reopening states varies with persistent health risks posed by Covid-19. With more options for social engagement, the next phase of the pandemic will require each of us to make choices on what to resume, how to Read more…
Help!! How do I figure out if a news story is SOLID or SENSATIONAL?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: Kawasaki disease is a rare inflammatory condition that affects children, typically under 5 years of age. Cases of Kawasaki-like illness, currently referred to as Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome, appear to be linked to Covid-19 infection. This condition remains a very rare complication of Covid-19 in children and teenagers. Further tracking and study is required. Read more…
Are doctors over-reporting COVID-19 deaths?
Data and Metrics Data LiteracyLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Nope. Based on recent data from the CDC, we can see that starting in mid-March there have been thousands of excess deaths (overall deaths compared to historical mortality patterns) that have not been counted as COVID-19 deaths. This likely under-reporting of COVID-19 deaths is especially true in places that have been harder hit by Read more…
Shelter-in-place orders are beginning to lift in my area. What activities are safe to resume?
Reopening Socializing Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: “The safest thing you can do, if you are able, is to stay at home.” The rationale for reopening states varies with persistent health risks posed by Covid-19. With more options for social engagement, the next phase of the pandemic will require each of us to make choices on what to resume, how to Read more…
Help!! How do I figure out if a news story is SOLID or SENSATIONAL?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: Nope. Based on recent data from the CDC, we can see that starting in mid-March there have been thousands of excess deaths (overall deaths compared to historical mortality patterns) that have not been counted as COVID-19 deaths. This likely under-reporting of COVID-19 deaths is especially true in places that have been harder hit by Read more…
Shelter-in-place orders are beginning to lift in my area. What activities are safe to resume?
Reopening Socializing Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: “The safest thing you can do, if you are able, is to stay at home.” The rationale for reopening states varies with persistent health risks posed by Covid-19. With more options for social engagement, the next phase of the pandemic will require each of us to make choices on what to resume, how to Read more…
Help!! How do I figure out if a news story is SOLID or SENSATIONAL?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: “The safest thing you can do, if you are able, is to stay at home.” The rationale for reopening states varies with persistent health risks posed by Covid-19. With more options for social engagement, the next phase of the pandemic will require each of us to make choices on what to resume, how to Read more…
Help!! How do I figure out if a news story is SOLID or SENSATIONAL?
Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: We’re all fighting an “infodemic” along with this pandemic. Here are three evidence-based tips for practicing INFORMATION HYGIENE: (1) Demand extraordinary vetting for extraordinary claims; (2) Proactively seek out competing views; (3) Amplify good information, and cut off the oxygen to the toxic stuff. We’ve received many inquiries this week about sniffing out misinformation 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks 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…
Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system?
Biology/ImmunityJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
Q: Is lockdown and all this infection prevention bad for my immune system? Don’t we need to be exposed to enough colds and bugs to keep our immune systems strong? A: Great question from one of our followers! This is a tricky concept for sure. You might have heard of the “hygiene” hypotheses, which suggests 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks 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…
Help! I’m having poop problems!
Clinical SymptomsLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity Treatments
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: You’re not alone: “PANDEMIC POOP” is real. Disruptions in daily routines – for example, reduced exercise, changes in sleep habits, and increased stress – can throw off the colon’s circadian rhythm, often causing constipation. Physicians recommend upping fiber intake and ensuring proper hydration to get back on track. And don’t hesitate to reach out Read more…
Remind me again, how does Remdesivir work? Immunity?
Biology/Immunity TreatmentsAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: Quick version, watch these videos and share! Remdesivir Immunity ~Aparna Link to original FB post
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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
A: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks 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 actually is herd immunity anyway?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadA: The term “herd immunity,” also sometimes called community immunity, refers to a situation where a lot of people in a population are not susceptible to a virus–either because they have already had it and are unlikely to get it again, or because they’ve been vaccinated. That is to say, their immune systems have been 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks 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…
Are males more at risk from COVID-19 compared to females? Why?
Biology/ImmunityJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: Yes. While whether men or women get infected more often is not yet clear, men are consistently over-represented among COVID-19 deaths. In hard hit New York City for example, males make up 52% of confirmed cases, but 61% of COVID-19 deaths. In Italy, men currently make up 47% of the confirmed cases, and 62% 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks 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…
What does the future hold?
Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
Q: What’s going to happen after the current outbreak subsides? Will there be another one? How widespread will it be? A: We wish we knew for sure, but top epidemiologists envision a few possible scenarios. “While these scenarios diverge on key details — how much transmission will decrease over the summer, for instance, and how Read more…
Does wearing a cloth mask protect me, or protect others?
Masks UncategorizedAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening Socializing
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: Mostly others, but if we all wear them in places where maintaining an adequate distance from others is challenging, we can all potentially protect each other. The key to understanding this is distinguishing transmission via ingress vs. egress. For the most part, discussion of mask use early in the pandemic focused on preventing INGRESS Read more…
What might socializing look like when shelter-in-place orders are lifted?
Reopening SocializingAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
A: Social distancing will remain important when shelter-in-place orders are lifted. For many regions, the elements needed to reopen society have not yet been achieved: declining rates of infection, adequate testing supply, and the ability to trace the contacts of new infections to appropriately isolate and treat. When shelter-in-place orders are lifted, restructuring social networks Read more…
