How on earth are schools going to safely re-open in the Fall?! And please, for the love of God tell me schools can open in Fall?!
Reopening School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know these questions are on everyone’s mind, and we have to be honest that this is still very much a “wait and see” question as the circumstances on the ground, as well as our knowledge of the science develop. The Nerdy Girls are very sympathetic to the huge educational and social costs of keeping Read more…
How can I deal with the idea that I don’t know if and when COVID-19 is going to end?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
This week we wanted to address one of the biggest questions out there….one that keeps even these nerdy girls up at night. A: This is a difficult question and while we would love to tell you how and when this story ends, it’s just not that that simple. The defining features of this pandemic make Read more…
How does contact tracing work again? With states reopening, how is that component of the test-trace-isolate strategy going so far?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Well…there are challenges. Contact tracing is a tried and true public health measure that’s been successfully used to contain other infectious diseases (e.g measles, HIV, food poisoning outbreaks, etc). Indeed, the CDC has indicated that it is a necessary precursor for easing lockdown restrictions. The uploaded graphic illustrates the steps in the process. However, Read more…
How do I make sense of all of the treatments being tested in clinical trials?! I can’t keep up – anti-virals, anti-inflammatories, antibodies….OH MY.
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: What a confusing jumble! We Nerdy Girls like to keep the following phrase in mind: TREATMENT TIMING MATTERS. Different treatments target different points in the disease course, as helpfully demonstrated in these figures. Punchline: We’ll need an entire bag of treatment tricks to beat this devilishly nasty disease. A little more context: First we Read more…
Is “Superspreading” real? What does it mean, and how can we avoid it?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes, superspreading is as yucky as it sounds, and seems to have played an important role in early COVID-19 spread. To avoid, stick to the Nerdy Girl stay SMART principles (Space, Mask, Air, Restrict, Time)! This linked article gives an excellent overview of the superspreading clusters that have been identified and what we know Read more…
Its been over 100 days since this all started….what about my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While we know that the effects of quarantine, isolation, and stay at home orders can be challenging, it is not a given that we will all develop mental health issues. A bit of optimism….the latest research tells us this: -We all respond differently, so we cannot assume that some of us won’t be resilient Read more…
I don’t currently have any symptoms, but I want to visit older family members soon, so I went and got a PCR test for COVID-19 (i.e., the kind that detects *current* infection). My test came back negative, so I am in the clear, right?
Socializing Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
We know these questions are on everyone’s mind, and we have to be honest that this is still very much a “wait and see” question as the circumstances on the ground, as well as our knowledge of the science develop. The Nerdy Girls are very sympathetic to the huge educational and social costs of keeping Read more…
How can I deal with the idea that I don’t know if and when COVID-19 is going to end?
Uncertainty and MisinformationAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
This week we wanted to address one of the biggest questions out there….one that keeps even these nerdy girls up at night. A: This is a difficult question and while we would love to tell you how and when this story ends, it’s just not that that simple. The defining features of this pandemic make Read more…
How does contact tracing work again? With states reopening, how is that component of the test-trace-isolate strategy going so far?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Well…there are challenges. Contact tracing is a tried and true public health measure that’s been successfully used to contain other infectious diseases (e.g measles, HIV, food poisoning outbreaks, etc). Indeed, the CDC has indicated that it is a necessary precursor for easing lockdown restrictions. The uploaded graphic illustrates the steps in the process. However, Read more…
How do I make sense of all of the treatments being tested in clinical trials?! I can’t keep up – anti-virals, anti-inflammatories, antibodies….OH MY.
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: What a confusing jumble! We Nerdy Girls like to keep the following phrase in mind: TREATMENT TIMING MATTERS. Different treatments target different points in the disease course, as helpfully demonstrated in these figures. Punchline: We’ll need an entire bag of treatment tricks to beat this devilishly nasty disease. A little more context: First we Read more…
Is “Superspreading” real? What does it mean, and how can we avoid it?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes, superspreading is as yucky as it sounds, and seems to have played an important role in early COVID-19 spread. To avoid, stick to the Nerdy Girl stay SMART principles (Space, Mask, Air, Restrict, Time)! This linked article gives an excellent overview of the superspreading clusters that have been identified and what we know Read more…
Its been over 100 days since this all started….what about my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While we know that the effects of quarantine, isolation, and stay at home orders can be challenging, it is not a given that we will all develop mental health issues. A bit of optimism….the latest research tells us this: -We all respond differently, so we cannot assume that some of us won’t be resilient Read more…
I don’t currently have any symptoms, but I want to visit older family members soon, so I went and got a PCR test for COVID-19 (i.e., the kind that detects *current* infection). My test came back negative, so I am in the clear, right?
Socializing Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
This week we wanted to address one of the biggest questions out there….one that keeps even these nerdy girls up at night. A: This is a difficult question and while we would love to tell you how and when this story ends, it’s just not that that simple. The defining features of this pandemic make Read more…
How does contact tracing work again? With states reopening, how is that component of the test-trace-isolate strategy going so far?
Testing and Contact TracingSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Well…there are challenges. Contact tracing is a tried and true public health measure that’s been successfully used to contain other infectious diseases (e.g measles, HIV, food poisoning outbreaks, etc). Indeed, the CDC has indicated that it is a necessary precursor for easing lockdown restrictions. The uploaded graphic illustrates the steps in the process. However, Read more…
How do I make sense of all of the treatments being tested in clinical trials?! I can’t keep up – anti-virals, anti-inflammatories, antibodies….OH MY.
Treatments
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: What a confusing jumble! We Nerdy Girls like to keep the following phrase in mind: TREATMENT TIMING MATTERS. Different treatments target different points in the disease course, as helpfully demonstrated in these figures. Punchline: We’ll need an entire bag of treatment tricks to beat this devilishly nasty disease. A little more context: First we Read more…
Is “Superspreading” real? What does it mean, and how can we avoid it?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes, superspreading is as yucky as it sounds, and seems to have played an important role in early COVID-19 spread. To avoid, stick to the Nerdy Girl stay SMART principles (Space, Mask, Air, Restrict, Time)! This linked article gives an excellent overview of the superspreading clusters that have been identified and what we know Read more…
Its been over 100 days since this all started….what about my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While we know that the effects of quarantine, isolation, and stay at home orders can be challenging, it is not a given that we will all develop mental health issues. A bit of optimism….the latest research tells us this: -We all respond differently, so we cannot assume that some of us won’t be resilient Read more…
I don’t currently have any symptoms, but I want to visit older family members soon, so I went and got a PCR test for COVID-19 (i.e., the kind that detects *current* infection). My test came back negative, so I am in the clear, right?
Socializing Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A. Well…there are challenges. Contact tracing is a tried and true public health measure that’s been successfully used to contain other infectious diseases (e.g measles, HIV, food poisoning outbreaks, etc). Indeed, the CDC has indicated that it is a necessary precursor for easing lockdown restrictions. The uploaded graphic illustrates the steps in the process. However, Read more…
How do I make sense of all of the treatments being tested in clinical trials?! I can’t keep up – anti-virals, anti-inflammatories, antibodies….OH MY.
TreatmentsLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: What a confusing jumble! We Nerdy Girls like to keep the following phrase in mind: TREATMENT TIMING MATTERS. Different treatments target different points in the disease course, as helpfully demonstrated in these figures. Punchline: We’ll need an entire bag of treatment tricks to beat this devilishly nasty disease. A little more context: First we Read more…
Is “Superspreading” real? What does it mean, and how can we avoid it?
Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes, superspreading is as yucky as it sounds, and seems to have played an important role in early COVID-19 spread. To avoid, stick to the Nerdy Girl stay SMART principles (Space, Mask, Air, Restrict, Time)! This linked article gives an excellent overview of the superspreading clusters that have been identified and what we know Read more…
Its been over 100 days since this all started….what about my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While we know that the effects of quarantine, isolation, and stay at home orders can be challenging, it is not a given that we will all develop mental health issues. A bit of optimism….the latest research tells us this: -We all respond differently, so we cannot assume that some of us won’t be resilient Read more…
I don’t currently have any symptoms, but I want to visit older family members soon, so I went and got a PCR test for COVID-19 (i.e., the kind that detects *current* infection). My test came back negative, so I am in the clear, right?
Socializing Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: What a confusing jumble! We Nerdy Girls like to keep the following phrase in mind: TREATMENT TIMING MATTERS. Different treatments target different points in the disease course, as helpfully demonstrated in these figures. Punchline: We’ll need an entire bag of treatment tricks to beat this devilishly nasty disease. A little more context: First we Read more…
Is “Superspreading” real? What does it mean, and how can we avoid it?
Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes, superspreading is as yucky as it sounds, and seems to have played an important role in early COVID-19 spread. To avoid, stick to the Nerdy Girl stay SMART principles (Space, Mask, Air, Restrict, Time)! This linked article gives an excellent overview of the superspreading clusters that have been identified and what we know Read more…
Its been over 100 days since this all started….what about my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While we know that the effects of quarantine, isolation, and stay at home orders can be challenging, it is not a given that we will all develop mental health issues. A bit of optimism….the latest research tells us this: -We all respond differently, so we cannot assume that some of us won’t be resilient Read more…
I don’t currently have any symptoms, but I want to visit older family members soon, so I went and got a PCR test for COVID-19 (i.e., the kind that detects *current* infection). My test came back negative, so I am in the clear, right?
Socializing Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: Yes, superspreading is as yucky as it sounds, and seems to have played an important role in early COVID-19 spread. To avoid, stick to the Nerdy Girl stay SMART principles (Space, Mask, Air, Restrict, Time)! This linked article gives an excellent overview of the superspreading clusters that have been identified and what we know Read more…
Its been over 100 days since this all started….what about my mental health?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: While we know that the effects of quarantine, isolation, and stay at home orders can be challenging, it is not a given that we will all develop mental health issues. A bit of optimism….the latest research tells us this: -We all respond differently, so we cannot assume that some of us won’t be resilient Read more…
I don’t currently have any symptoms, but I want to visit older family members soon, so I went and got a PCR test for COVID-19 (i.e., the kind that detects *current* infection). My test came back negative, so I am in the clear, right?
Socializing Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: While we know that the effects of quarantine, isolation, and stay at home orders can be challenging, it is not a given that we will all develop mental health issues. A bit of optimism….the latest research tells us this: -We all respond differently, so we cannot assume that some of us won’t be resilient Read more…
I don’t currently have any symptoms, but I want to visit older family members soon, so I went and got a PCR test for COVID-19 (i.e., the kind that detects *current* infection). My test came back negative, so I am in the clear, right?
Socializing Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying Safe
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: Not necessarily. You should consider the possibility that you got a negative test result even though you are truly infected. After you are exposed to SARS-CoV-2, the amount of virus in your body builds up over time, reaching its highest level, right before symptom onset. It can take 2-14 days (average of 5-6) from Read more…
Advice for College-Bound Students and Their Parents
School Staying SafeAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
Time for another Nerdy Guest! This post addresses questions college-bound students and their parents might have about health on campus. Teri Aronowitz, PhD, FNP-BC, FAAN is an Associate Professor at University of Massachusetts Boston & a Family Nurse Practitioner at Boston University Student Health Services. She is also the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of American Read more…
What the heck do we know about kids and COVID-19 transmission?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: We STILL need more data. But so far there is decent evidence that: 1) kids (especially younger kids) are less likely to be infected (yay!). Less solid but suggestive evidence that: 2) kids *may* be less likely to transmit SARS-CoV-2 to others. Note that says LESS likely, not that they DON’T transmit! How do Read more…
This Sunday, we wanted to answer a few questions and also give you a brief update on the news this week (pandemic related)!
Infection and Spread Masks Staying Safe Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and Spread
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
We also have a brief infographic for you that answers these questions. Read on if you want the full answers and links. And if you have time, test your COVID-19 knowledge and read a few great tips from therapists on how to cope during this pandemic. Quiz Therapy WHAT IF I KEEP TESTING POSITIVE FOR Read more…
A lot has changed over the past few months. Can you explain how the coronavirus (also known as SARS-Co-V-2) infects the body and how it can be stopped?
Biology/Immunity Infection and SpreadAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental Health
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: We love this brilliant series of illustrations on how the coronavirus takes hold in the body as well as potential drug and vaccine targets. Here is a quick summary of what you will see. -The virus enters cells through the ACE2 receptor and then replicates and breaks out—>Once it breaks out, it can either Read more…
How has the pandemic affected fathers?
Families/Kids Mental HealthAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
Introducing Nerdy Guest Dr. Tova Walsh, PhD, MSW of UW-Madison School of Social Work. Dr. Walsh’s research focuses on improving health and wellbeing in families that are experiencing special stressors. Her work includes understanding the parenting support needs of new fathers and military-connected parents. A: Short answer: Like everyone else, dads have been through a Read more…
Can dogs smell COVID-19 infections?
Testing and Contact TracingLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: Yep! Dogs are both cute and amazing. As you probably already know, dogs have great sniffers — with over 300 million olfactory receptors, as compared to humans, who have only 6 million! Respiratory diseases (such as COVID-19) can change your body odor. And a well-trained dog with its super-sensitive nose can detect the difference. Read more…
What have we learned about Covid-19 transmission in nursing homes that could be helpful in tailoring our approach to infection control across settings?
Infection and SpreadAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: Broad testing and protective equipment are essential in containing Covid-19 spread and saving lives. Residents of nursing homes and the many professionals who provide care to older adults in nursing homes have been extremely hard hit by Covid-19. Once Covid-19 enters a nursing home, the shared living space can make it very difficult to Read more…
Housing Policy and the Pandemic
Social and Racial Justice VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
Dr. Michael Lens of UCLA Luskin School of Public Policy chats with Malia Jones of Dear Pandemic about housing policy & COVID-19. Links to additional reading on housing and inequality suggested by Dr. Lens at the end of the video: 1. Generation Priced Out (book) by Randy Shaw 2. The Color of Law (book) by Read more…
How did Dear Pandemic begin as a trusted source of Covid-19 information?
Uncertainty and MisinformationAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: Check out this new WHYY The Pulse episode, Social Media’s ‘Infodemic’. This episode features our very own Nerdy Girl, Dr. Alison Buttenheim, as well as other leaders in the field. Link to original FB post
Can you tell me the story of Hydroxychloroquine again?
Treatments Uncertainty and MisinformationAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: Absolutely. To answer this question, we turn to the analysis of others….because we also love elevating others’ excellent and succinct work for you. This quick video by The Incidental Economist hits on the major points of the retracted studies and where we are now. It also ends on a hopeful message: “Science isn’t perfect. Read more…
Is blood type really linked to a higher risk of COVID-19?
Biology/ImmunitySandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
Short answer: We don’t know yet. Long answer: A study by DNA testing company 23andMe recently made headlines, reporting that people with blood Type O were up to 18% less likely get infected with COVID19 than other blood types (A, B, and AB), and they were also less likely to be hospitalized. The findings appear Read more…
I heard that the MMR vaccine prevents COVID-19. Should I get an MMR vaccine?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread Travel
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: If you haven’t had one already, you should definitely get an MMR vaccine to prevent measles, mumps, and rubella! But no evidence so far supports the idea that your MMR vaccine might prevent COVID-19. We’ve all seen the news: risk of dying of COVID-19 infection jumps at about age 50 and increases every year Read more…
Why the heck are COVID-19 researchers so obsessed with cruise ships?
Infection and Spread TravelLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
A: Two words: SILENT INFECTION. Specifically, cruise ships that were out-to-sea during the emergence of the pandemic provided a unique setting to compute a complete count of people “at risk” of becoming infected and a complete count of people who ultimately become infected. These complete counts allowed scientists to calculate the presence of SILENT INFECTION Read more…
