If I have a symptomatic case of COVID, what are the chances I have a full recovery?
Clinical Symptoms Data and Metrics
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: On *average*, about 80% of symptomatic cases will recover without hospitalization. But (big big but): your mileage may vary. One of the things epidemiologists study is the “natural history” of a disease — or how a given disease progresses in individuals from start to finish. Most diseases and conditions have a stylized or typical Read more…
What do epidemiologists think about Joe Biden and Mike Pence (and other national leaders) testing negative for COVID on Friday?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A negative test result does NOT mean that Mr. Pence and Mr. Biden are COVID-free… even if that happens to be really inconvenient for them. Everyone who has been near the President of the United States in the last week (or who has been around anyone else with COVID-19 for that matter) should self-quarantine Read more…
What’s the update with COVID-19-sniffing dogs?
Reopening Testing and Contact Tracing Travel
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. The Helsinki-Vantaa airport welcomed COVID-19-sniffing dogs to their staff last week, hoping to use their keen sense of smell to detect COVID-19 positive patients up to 5 days before symptoms appear. Dubai International Airport also has a team of dogs sniffing for COVID-19. Here’s how the airport testing works: Prospective passengers rub a wipe Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
How to have a SMART Halloween
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
S. Space: keep your distance from other people. M. Mask: wear a mask! A. Air: take the fun outdoors. R. Restrict: Avoid crowds (especially indoor crowds)! Don’t expand your COVID bubble on Halloween. T. Time: Keep your interactions short & sweet. We have updated our SMART graphic for the holiday. Feel free to pass this Read more…
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
What is the real risk of death from COVID-19? Is it actually worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: On *average*, about 80% of symptomatic cases will recover without hospitalization. But (big big but): your mileage may vary. One of the things epidemiologists study is the “natural history” of a disease — or how a given disease progresses in individuals from start to finish. Most diseases and conditions have a stylized or typical Read more…
What do epidemiologists think about Joe Biden and Mike Pence (and other national leaders) testing negative for COVID on Friday?
Testing and Contact TracingMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: A negative test result does NOT mean that Mr. Pence and Mr. Biden are COVID-free… even if that happens to be really inconvenient for them. Everyone who has been near the President of the United States in the last week (or who has been around anyone else with COVID-19 for that matter) should self-quarantine Read more…
What’s the update with COVID-19-sniffing dogs?
Reopening Testing and Contact Tracing Travel
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A. The Helsinki-Vantaa airport welcomed COVID-19-sniffing dogs to their staff last week, hoping to use their keen sense of smell to detect COVID-19 positive patients up to 5 days before symptoms appear. Dubai International Airport also has a team of dogs sniffing for COVID-19. Here’s how the airport testing works: Prospective passengers rub a wipe Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
How to have a SMART Halloween
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
S. Space: keep your distance from other people. M. Mask: wear a mask! A. Air: take the fun outdoors. R. Restrict: Avoid crowds (especially indoor crowds)! Don’t expand your COVID bubble on Halloween. T. Time: Keep your interactions short & sweet. We have updated our SMART graphic for the holiday. Feel free to pass this Read more…
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
What is the real risk of death from COVID-19? Is it actually worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: A negative test result does NOT mean that Mr. Pence and Mr. Biden are COVID-free… even if that happens to be really inconvenient for them. Everyone who has been near the President of the United States in the last week (or who has been around anyone else with COVID-19 for that matter) should self-quarantine Read more…
What’s the update with COVID-19-sniffing dogs?
Reopening Testing and Contact Tracing TravelLauren Hale, PhD MA
A. The Helsinki-Vantaa airport welcomed COVID-19-sniffing dogs to their staff last week, hoping to use their keen sense of smell to detect COVID-19 positive patients up to 5 days before symptoms appear. Dubai International Airport also has a team of dogs sniffing for COVID-19. Here’s how the airport testing works: Prospective passengers rub a wipe Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
How to have a SMART Halloween
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
S. Space: keep your distance from other people. M. Mask: wear a mask! A. Air: take the fun outdoors. R. Restrict: Avoid crowds (especially indoor crowds)! Don’t expand your COVID bubble on Halloween. T. Time: Keep your interactions short & sweet. We have updated our SMART graphic for the holiday. Feel free to pass this Read more…
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
What is the real risk of death from COVID-19? Is it actually worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A. The Helsinki-Vantaa airport welcomed COVID-19-sniffing dogs to their staff last week, hoping to use their keen sense of smell to detect COVID-19 positive patients up to 5 days before symptoms appear. Dubai International Airport also has a team of dogs sniffing for COVID-19. Here’s how the airport testing works: Prospective passengers rub a wipe Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
How to have a SMART Halloween
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
S. Space: keep your distance from other people. M. Mask: wear a mask! A. Air: take the fun outdoors. R. Restrict: Avoid crowds (especially indoor crowds)! Don’t expand your COVID bubble on Halloween. T. Time: Keep your interactions short & sweet. We have updated our SMART graphic for the holiday. Feel free to pass this Read more…
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
What is the real risk of death from COVID-19? Is it actually worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
Dr. Leininger and Dr. Jones tackle follower questions in this not-quite-live Q&A session. We’re answering questions about how to have an honest conversation about your pod (3:00), kids and transmission (7:00), fomites (12:45) and … how to think about Joe Biden’s negative test result from Friday, Oct 2 (at 17:20). Related links: What is the Read more…
How to have a SMART Halloween
Families/Kids Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
S. Space: keep your distance from other people. M. Mask: wear a mask! A. Air: take the fun outdoors. R. Restrict: Avoid crowds (especially indoor crowds)! Don’t expand your COVID bubble on Halloween. T. Time: Keep your interactions short & sweet. We have updated our SMART graphic for the holiday. Feel free to pass this Read more…
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
What is the real risk of death from COVID-19? Is it actually worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
S. Space: keep your distance from other people. M. Mask: wear a mask! A. Air: take the fun outdoors. R. Restrict: Avoid crowds (especially indoor crowds)! Don’t expand your COVID bubble on Halloween. T. Time: Keep your interactions short & sweet. We have updated our SMART graphic for the holiday. Feel free to pass this Read more…
Will Vitamin D supplementation help prevent COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
What is the real risk of death from COVID-19? Is it actually worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: Too early to say. But we should know more soon. Vitamin D is a micronutrient that is present and supplemented in food, taken as a supplement, and made when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet rays (UV). It helps to keep bones growing and prevent them from breaking down. Vitamin D is also thought Read more…
What is the real risk of death from COVID-19? Is it actually worse than the flu?
Data and Metrics Data LiteracyJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: It’s complicated…. but YES! In this update of a post from July, we take stock of what’s new in tracking how lethal SARS-CoV-1 actually is. First some definitions: Case Fatality Rate (CFR): % of confirmed cases who die. In the U.S., the estimated CFR is currently 2.9% In the U.K., the estimated CFR is Read more…
I’ve heard a lot of stuff about flu shots. What’s true?
Staying Safe VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: There are tons of myths and misconceptions out there about the flu shot. This week, our Friendly Family Doc breaks them down and sets the record straight! Myth: The flu vaccine causes the flu. Fact: Nope! There are multiple formulations of the influenza vaccine, both injectable and a nasal spray. Flu shots contain inactive Read more…
What exactly is a “superspreader” and what makes one person a superspreader and another person not?
Data and Metrics Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: The word “superspreader” simply refers to someone who is infected with COVID-19 and–somehow–manages to pass it along to a whole lot of other people. Specifically, a superspreader infects many more people than you would expect based on the averages. We’ve seen situations where one infected person got dozens of others sick. We’ve also seen Read more…
With the colder weather coming, are there any strategies I can use to reduce the risk of transmission indoors?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying SafeSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial Justice
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A. It turns out that the #SMART principles that the Nerdy Girls have been promoting for months now have stood the test of time and apply to indoor settings as well! For a refresher: SPACE – Keep your distance from others (more than 6 feet is great) MASK – Wear a mask AIR – Ensure Read more…
Can you put the United States death toll from Covid-19 into context?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Social and Racial JusticeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: More than 200,000 Americans have lost their lives to Covid-19. Counting does not do justice to the memory of each individual lost or the societal impact on our communities. Putting this huge number into context depends upon how we frame this mass casualty, our personal biases, and our proximity to death. Coronavirus is one Read more…
Is Halloween canceled?
Families/Kids Socializing Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying Safe
Rebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: Most definitely not. But like all things 2020, it’s going to have to be a little different this year. Saving Halloween during a global pandemic? Our beloved Dear Pandemic co-founder Dr. Malia Jones was BORN for this moment. With your PVC pipe, your Bob Ross mask, & your Jackbox Trivia Murder Party 2 party Read more…
I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help?
Staying SafeRebecca Doyle, Graduate Assistant
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
Q: I know that voting is important to a healthy democracy and public health. I’ve already made my plan to vote. Is there anything else I can do to help? A: Congrats on making a plan to vote! There ARE a few ways to help: volunteering to be a poll worker, encouraging others to vote, Read more…
Why do we need to worry about flu season?
Staying Safe VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
Amanda from Vermont asks: Why do we need to worry about flu season? Won’t our COVID safety measures also protect us from flu? A: You’re right that the same precautions will protect you from COVID-19 and influenza, but the fact that COVID-19 cases are still on the rise in the United States means that not Read more…
Is COVID-19 becoming less deadly?
Data and MetricsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical Symptoms
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
Q: Why are deaths not as high as in the Spring? A: There is no evidence that the virus itself has become milder. The lower numbers of deaths we see now compared to equivalent numbers of cases in the Spring is likely due to 3 main factors: 1) MORE TESTING: Early in the pandemic we Read more…
Any tips for combatting “tech neck?”
Clinical SymptomsLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
A: The pandemic’s been hell on our collective posture. These 3Ms can help: (1) Moving more; (2) Modifying your home office/school set-up; (3) Minding your mental health. MOVE MORE. AND MORE OFTEN Stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, and arms are awesome; as are aerobic activities (cites below). The most awesome exercises? Those that you’ll actually Read more…
