Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Lindsey Leininger & Malia Jones tackle your COVID questions, including what’s up with curfews, immunity passes, and declining death rates. ➡️ Intro and website info (:00 – 3:59) ➡️ Lightning round (4:00 – 9:39) ➡️ Immunity: personal + herd (9:40 – 17:55) ➡️ Curfews to curb spread? (18:30 – 25:15) ➡️ Cases up, death Read more…
I was paying attention to the US election news this week and didn’t really follow the pandemic news. Now I check the numbers and — whoa! What happened??!?
Families/Kids Mental Health Socializing Travel
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Does this mean more lockdowns? To be honest, I’m kinda done. A: Cases are surging, we have rough weeks ahead, and everyone’s collective will to combat the pandemic has eroded. Stay focused on the things you can do in the short term, and stay realistic about this new surge. First, the numbers: If you Read more…
I heard there was a large COVID-19 outbreak at an overnight summer school retreat in WI. What happened?!
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
When will we have a vaccine for COVID? When will life return back to normal?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
Post-Election Uncertainty
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is the day after Election Day in the United States and perhaps many of you are feeling what we feel too: Uncertainty. For our families, for our friends and neighbors, and for our futures. Amidst this uncertainty, let us recommit to you and the work ahead. We are scientists, researchers, clinicians, leaders, and family Read more…
Election Day Is Here!
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
Drs. Lindsey Leininger & Malia Jones tackle your COVID questions, including what’s up with curfews, immunity passes, and declining death rates. ➡️ Intro and website info (:00 – 3:59) ➡️ Lightning round (4:00 – 9:39) ➡️ Immunity: personal + herd (9:40 – 17:55) ➡️ Curfews to curb spread? (18:30 – 25:15) ➡️ Cases up, death Read more…
I was paying attention to the US election news this week and didn’t really follow the pandemic news. Now I check the numbers and — whoa! What happened??!?
Families/Kids Mental Health Socializing TravelAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Does this mean more lockdowns? To be honest, I’m kinda done. A: Cases are surging, we have rough weeks ahead, and everyone’s collective will to combat the pandemic has eroded. Stay focused on the things you can do in the short term, and stay realistic about this new surge. First, the numbers: If you Read more…
I heard there was a large COVID-19 outbreak at an overnight summer school retreat in WI. What happened?!
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
When will we have a vaccine for COVID? When will life return back to normal?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
Post-Election Uncertainty
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is the day after Election Day in the United States and perhaps many of you are feeling what we feel too: Uncertainty. For our families, for our friends and neighbors, and for our futures. Amidst this uncertainty, let us recommit to you and the work ahead. We are scientists, researchers, clinicians, leaders, and family Read more…
Election Day Is Here!
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
Q: Does this mean more lockdowns? To be honest, I’m kinda done. A: Cases are surging, we have rough weeks ahead, and everyone’s collective will to combat the pandemic has eroded. Stay focused on the things you can do in the short term, and stay realistic about this new surge. First, the numbers: If you Read more…
I heard there was a large COVID-19 outbreak at an overnight summer school retreat in WI. What happened?!
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
When will we have a vaccine for COVID? When will life return back to normal?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
Post-Election Uncertainty
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is the day after Election Day in the United States and perhaps many of you are feeling what we feel too: Uncertainty. For our families, for our friends and neighbors, and for our futures. Amidst this uncertainty, let us recommit to you and the work ahead. We are scientists, researchers, clinicians, leaders, and family Read more…
Election Day Is Here!
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: Retreat organizers relied primarily on a test-based strategy for preventing individuals with COVID-19 from attending the retreat and didn’t employ other measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 among attendees. This did not work. Consequently, a single attendee who became ill the day after arriving led to 116 other attendees (76% of attendees) becoming a Read more…
When will we have a vaccine for COVID? When will life return back to normal?!
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
Post-Election Uncertainty
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is the day after Election Day in the United States and perhaps many of you are feeling what we feel too: Uncertainty. For our families, for our friends and neighbors, and for our futures. Amidst this uncertainty, let us recommit to you and the work ahead. We are scientists, researchers, clinicians, leaders, and family Read more…
Election Day Is Here!
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: The earliest we can expect vaccines to be available is January, and they will be available to the most vulnerable populations first, with general public availability following by Spring 2021. But even with an effective vaccine, some social distancing measures are expected to be in place at least until the end of 2021, with Read more…
What is psychological PPE (personal protective equipment)?
Mental HealthSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
Post-Election Uncertainty
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is the day after Election Day in the United States and perhaps many of you are feeling what we feel too: Uncertainty. For our families, for our friends and neighbors, and for our futures. Amidst this uncertainty, let us recommit to you and the work ahead. We are scientists, researchers, clinicians, leaders, and family Read more…
Election Day Is Here!
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: We all know that personal protective equipment (like masks) is important during the COVID-19 pandemic. But psychological PPE is important too! Psychological PPE include individual and systems-wide actions that can be taken to protect your mental health and the mental health of those around you, and to protect against burnout. As the pandemic continues, Read more…
Post-Election Uncertainty
Mental Health Uncertainty and MisinformationAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is the day after Election Day in the United States and perhaps many of you are feeling what we feel too: Uncertainty. For our families, for our friends and neighbors, and for our futures. Amidst this uncertainty, let us recommit to you and the work ahead. We are scientists, researchers, clinicians, leaders, and family Read more…
Election Day Is Here!
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
It is the day after Election Day in the United States and perhaps many of you are feeling what we feel too: Uncertainty. For our families, for our friends and neighbors, and for our futures. Amidst this uncertainty, let us recommit to you and the work ahead. We are scientists, researchers, clinicians, leaders, and family Read more…
Election Day Is Here!
Staying SafeRebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
It’s Election Day in the US! Thank you to our wonderful Dear Pandemic community for joining us for a weekly series on voting – something near and dear to our Nerdy Girl hearts. To celebrate this important day, we wanted to re-share some of the key topics we’ve covered and remind you to VOTE if Read more…
Any “information hygiene” tips for tomorrow?
Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: Don’t expect resolution on election night. Fact-check (!!!). Take a purposeful pause prior to sharing information. Background: Tomorrow’s going to be a rough day on the information frontlines. How can we prepare? Knowledge is power, and here’s what the experts* want us to know: First: Brace for the possibility that we won’t know the Read more…
If someone in my household has COVID-19, what are the chances I get it, too?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: About 50% (with all the usual caveats about averages and estimates). Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 among household members is common, from both children and adults. Prompt isolation of cases is crucial, and all household members should wear masks in shared household spaces. While we all worry a lot about exposure to COVID-19 at large events, Read more…
My husband is working at a place where everyone wears masks. I am higher risk & retired… Should he be sleeping in a separate room from me?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Staying SafeLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: When bed partners have varying degrees of risk of exposure and vulnerability to the disease, it’s worth discussing sleeping in separate spaces. The Nerdy Girls call this COVID Bed Spread. Here are some benefits to sleeping apart from other household members: 1.) REDUCED RISK OF VIRAL EXPOSURE (in both directions). Spending six or more Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Socializing Staying Safe VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
Drs. Grainger and Parkinson take your COVID questions! Today we tackled: ➡️ Intro + Halloween plans (:00 – 4:40) ➡️ Lightning round! (4:45 – 10:55) ➡️ Is it OK to have surgery? (11:00 – 16:30) ➡️ Hard truths re: Turkey Day (16:40 – 22:25) ➡️ Restaurants’ outdoor “dining domes” (22:30 – 27:39) ➡️ Risk-taking and Read more…
What can I do about my own anxiety when it seems like everyone is anxious right now?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: Focus on what you can control and take it from there. There is a lot to feel anxious about right now. A recent survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that nearly 2 in 3 respondents reported more anxiety this year than at the same time last year. And experts believe that uncertainty Read more…
What’s the risk of transmission if I’m sharing indoor space with an infected person? What can I do to reduce my risk?
Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
A: Because the virus can travel in small aerosols that accumulate indoors, transmission risk is strongly related to crowded, poorly ventilated rooms with loud talking and no masks for long durations of time. This means you can greatly reduce your risk by following the Nerdy Girls #StaySMART principles: SPACE – Keep your distance (more than Read more…
