What are some practical things I can still do to protect myself/my family/friends from getting COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Even though we are seeing a surge in new cases in many parts of the U.S. and Europe, there are still actions you can take to help decrease your risk. 1: Avoid small gatherings 2: Quarantine for 2 weeks if you have been exposed to the virus 3: Be aware of catching the virus Read more…
Pfizer vaccine news! Is it really OK to hope?!
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes. We’ve been out to sea in a hellish storm. Yesterday, the faint dimmer of the lighthouse came into view. Pfizer has announced that early data from its pivotal vaccine trial looks good. So good, in fact, that this Nerdy Girl (Lindsey) cried upon reading the headline. TL;DR on the data read-out: There is Read more…
What are the chances that I’ll be hospitalized if I get COVID-19?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Treatments
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The risk of ending up in the hospital for COVID-19 varies quite a bit by age. Based on data from the state of Wisconsin, the chances of being hospitalized (given that you’ve had a positive test for COVID-19) range from 1 in 100 for kids to 1 in 3 for people aged 80 and Read more…
Should I be worried about this story of mink to human transmission of a new strain of SARS-CoV-2 in Denmark?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No need to panic, but scientists are keeping an eye on it. RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 are always mutating in small ways– this is normal and expected. While scientists will be watching closely, so far there is no solid evidence that this new mutation has changed the virus in meaningful ways. In a press Read more…
Why are universities doing things like testing wastewater and pooling spit?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Testing samples of wastewater and pooled spit in places with communal living, such as colleges and universities, provide several valuable benefits in detecting COVID-19. TESTING OF ASYMPTOMATIC PEOPLE. When people are living and socializing together in the same building, there is a risk of asymptomatic spread. If you wait until people are symptomatic to Read more…
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…
A: Even though we are seeing a surge in new cases in many parts of the U.S. and Europe, there are still actions you can take to help decrease your risk. 1: Avoid small gatherings 2: Quarantine for 2 weeks if you have been exposed to the virus 3: Be aware of catching the virus Read more…
Pfizer vaccine news! Is it really OK to hope?!
VaccinesLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes. We’ve been out to sea in a hellish storm. Yesterday, the faint dimmer of the lighthouse came into view. Pfizer has announced that early data from its pivotal vaccine trial looks good. So good, in fact, that this Nerdy Girl (Lindsey) cried upon reading the headline. TL;DR on the data read-out: There is Read more…
What are the chances that I’ll be hospitalized if I get COVID-19?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread Treatments
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The risk of ending up in the hospital for COVID-19 varies quite a bit by age. Based on data from the state of Wisconsin, the chances of being hospitalized (given that you’ve had a positive test for COVID-19) range from 1 in 100 for kids to 1 in 3 for people aged 80 and Read more…
Should I be worried about this story of mink to human transmission of a new strain of SARS-CoV-2 in Denmark?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No need to panic, but scientists are keeping an eye on it. RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 are always mutating in small ways– this is normal and expected. While scientists will be watching closely, so far there is no solid evidence that this new mutation has changed the virus in meaningful ways. In a press Read more…
Why are universities doing things like testing wastewater and pooling spit?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Testing samples of wastewater and pooled spit in places with communal living, such as colleges and universities, provide several valuable benefits in detecting COVID-19. TESTING OF ASYMPTOMATIC PEOPLE. When people are living and socializing together in the same building, there is a risk of asymptomatic spread. If you wait until people are symptomatic to Read more…
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…
A: Yes. We’ve been out to sea in a hellish storm. Yesterday, the faint dimmer of the lighthouse came into view. Pfizer has announced that early data from its pivotal vaccine trial looks good. So good, in fact, that this Nerdy Girl (Lindsey) cried upon reading the headline. TL;DR on the data read-out: There is Read more…
What are the chances that I’ll be hospitalized if I get COVID-19?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Infection and Spread TreatmentsMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The risk of ending up in the hospital for COVID-19 varies quite a bit by age. Based on data from the state of Wisconsin, the chances of being hospitalized (given that you’ve had a positive test for COVID-19) range from 1 in 100 for kids to 1 in 3 for people aged 80 and Read more…
Should I be worried about this story of mink to human transmission of a new strain of SARS-CoV-2 in Denmark?
Biology/Immunity
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No need to panic, but scientists are keeping an eye on it. RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 are always mutating in small ways– this is normal and expected. While scientists will be watching closely, so far there is no solid evidence that this new mutation has changed the virus in meaningful ways. In a press Read more…
Why are universities doing things like testing wastewater and pooling spit?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Testing samples of wastewater and pooled spit in places with communal living, such as colleges and universities, provide several valuable benefits in detecting COVID-19. TESTING OF ASYMPTOMATIC PEOPLE. When people are living and socializing together in the same building, there is a risk of asymptomatic spread. If you wait until people are symptomatic to Read more…
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…
A: The risk of ending up in the hospital for COVID-19 varies quite a bit by age. Based on data from the state of Wisconsin, the chances of being hospitalized (given that you’ve had a positive test for COVID-19) range from 1 in 100 for kids to 1 in 3 for people aged 80 and Read more…
Should I be worried about this story of mink to human transmission of a new strain of SARS-CoV-2 in Denmark?
Biology/ImmunityJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No need to panic, but scientists are keeping an eye on it. RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 are always mutating in small ways– this is normal and expected. While scientists will be watching closely, so far there is no solid evidence that this new mutation has changed the virus in meaningful ways. In a press Read more…
Why are universities doing things like testing wastewater and pooling spit?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Testing samples of wastewater and pooled spit in places with communal living, such as colleges and universities, provide several valuable benefits in detecting COVID-19. TESTING OF ASYMPTOMATIC PEOPLE. When people are living and socializing together in the same building, there is a risk of asymptomatic spread. If you wait until people are symptomatic to Read more…
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…
A: No need to panic, but scientists are keeping an eye on it. RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 are always mutating in small ways– this is normal and expected. While scientists will be watching closely, so far there is no solid evidence that this new mutation has changed the virus in meaningful ways. In a press Read more…
Why are universities doing things like testing wastewater and pooling spit?
Testing and Contact TracingLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Testing samples of wastewater and pooled spit in places with communal living, such as colleges and universities, provide several valuable benefits in detecting COVID-19. TESTING OF ASYMPTOMATIC PEOPLE. When people are living and socializing together in the same building, there is a risk of asymptomatic spread. If you wait until people are symptomatic to Read more…
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…
A: Testing samples of wastewater and pooled spit in places with communal living, such as colleges and universities, provide several valuable benefits in detecting COVID-19. TESTING OF ASYMPTOMATIC PEOPLE. When people are living and socializing together in the same building, there is a risk of asymptomatic spread. If you wait until people are symptomatic to Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Biology/Immunity Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Socializing Staying Safe VideosMalia 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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
