Nerdy Guest Sivanthy Vasanthan on Contact Tracing
Testing and Contact Tracing
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Joining us today is Nerdy Guest, Sivanthy Vasanthan, a Case Investigator for New York City’s COVID-19 Test and Trace Corps, the public health initiative that oversees the city’s contact tracing program. She has been in this position since the program’s inception in May 2020. Sivanthy is a recent graduate from Columbia Public Health, where she Read more…
Do masks work at slowing the spread of Covid-19?
Masks Staying Safe
A: YES! Wearing a mask reduces the spread of droplets containing the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Blocking these droplets with a mask from shooting out into the world around us reduces transmission from person to person. Masks block a significant amount of these droplets while still allowing gases to pass in and out of the mask. Still Read more…
Population Basics Part 2
Data and Metrics
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
PART 2 on population basics from Dr. Michal Engelman. In case you missed Part 1 in this Nerdy Guest miniseries, here it is! Q: Ok, now I understand what a population (and even a sub-population!) is… but why does that matter for dealing with COVID-19? Population scientists can’t predict which people will get COVID-19, but Read more…
Etiquette help, please. Screaming “BACK UP BUSTER!” every time someone violates my pandemic personal space isn’t working out so well.
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Try out an alternative that leads with mutual respect, such as: “Sir, can we please put a little space between us?” This suggestion is offered by etiquette expert Elaine Swann, author of the book “Let Crazy Be Crazy: Then Politely Get What You Want, Get Your Point Across, and Gently Put Rude People in Read more…
How frequently should students in a college community get tested in order to prevent large COVID-19 outbreaks?
Reopening School Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Every 2 days, according to one recently-published model. Every 2 days!? Whaaaaah???? With hundreds of thousands of students around the country headed back to college campuses this month, COVID testing is something every college needs to plan for: Who, how, and how often? The “how often” question was answered last week in a study Read more…
Can’t I just give my nose a little break while I’m wearing my mask?
Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Nope. COVER THOSE SCHNOZES! Why? The nose is often the first place the virus attaches and is a replication hotspot. This may be because ACE2 — the cell surface receptor that the virus uses to get into cells — is more abundant on nasal-lining cells and less abundant on the surface of lower airway Read more…
Population Basics Part 1
Data and Metrics
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic is excited to introduce Nerdy Guest Michal Engelman, PhD. Dr. Engelman teaches and studies population health and aging at UW-Madison’s Center for Demography and Ecology. She joins us today to talk some basics about population. She’ll be back for part 2 on Thursday! Q: I’ve never heard the word population so much in Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
Joining us today is Nerdy Guest, Sivanthy Vasanthan, a Case Investigator for New York City’s COVID-19 Test and Trace Corps, the public health initiative that oversees the city’s contact tracing program. She has been in this position since the program’s inception in May 2020. Sivanthy is a recent graduate from Columbia Public Health, where she Read more…
Do masks work at slowing the spread of Covid-19?
Masks Staying SafeA: YES! Wearing a mask reduces the spread of droplets containing the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Blocking these droplets with a mask from shooting out into the world around us reduces transmission from person to person. Masks block a significant amount of these droplets while still allowing gases to pass in and out of the mask. Still Read more…
Population Basics Part 2
Data and MetricsMalia Jones, PhD MPH
PART 2 on population basics from Dr. Michal Engelman. In case you missed Part 1 in this Nerdy Guest miniseries, here it is! Q: Ok, now I understand what a population (and even a sub-population!) is… but why does that matter for dealing with COVID-19? Population scientists can’t predict which people will get COVID-19, but Read more…
Etiquette help, please. Screaming “BACK UP BUSTER!” every time someone violates my pandemic personal space isn’t working out so well.
Staying Safe
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Try out an alternative that leads with mutual respect, such as: “Sir, can we please put a little space between us?” This suggestion is offered by etiquette expert Elaine Swann, author of the book “Let Crazy Be Crazy: Then Politely Get What You Want, Get Your Point Across, and Gently Put Rude People in Read more…
How frequently should students in a college community get tested in order to prevent large COVID-19 outbreaks?
Reopening School Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Every 2 days, according to one recently-published model. Every 2 days!? Whaaaaah???? With hundreds of thousands of students around the country headed back to college campuses this month, COVID testing is something every college needs to plan for: Who, how, and how often? The “how often” question was answered last week in a study Read more…
Can’t I just give my nose a little break while I’m wearing my mask?
Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Nope. COVER THOSE SCHNOZES! Why? The nose is often the first place the virus attaches and is a replication hotspot. This may be because ACE2 — the cell surface receptor that the virus uses to get into cells — is more abundant on nasal-lining cells and less abundant on the surface of lower airway Read more…
Population Basics Part 1
Data and Metrics
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic is excited to introduce Nerdy Guest Michal Engelman, PhD. Dr. Engelman teaches and studies population health and aging at UW-Madison’s Center for Demography and Ecology. She joins us today to talk some basics about population. She’ll be back for part 2 on Thursday! Q: I’ve never heard the word population so much in Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
PART 2 on population basics from Dr. Michal Engelman. In case you missed Part 1 in this Nerdy Guest miniseries, here it is! Q: Ok, now I understand what a population (and even a sub-population!) is… but why does that matter for dealing with COVID-19? Population scientists can’t predict which people will get COVID-19, but Read more…
Etiquette help, please. Screaming “BACK UP BUSTER!” every time someone violates my pandemic personal space isn’t working out so well.
Staying SafeLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Try out an alternative that leads with mutual respect, such as: “Sir, can we please put a little space between us?” This suggestion is offered by etiquette expert Elaine Swann, author of the book “Let Crazy Be Crazy: Then Politely Get What You Want, Get Your Point Across, and Gently Put Rude People in Read more…
How frequently should students in a college community get tested in order to prevent large COVID-19 outbreaks?
Reopening School Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Every 2 days, according to one recently-published model. Every 2 days!? Whaaaaah???? With hundreds of thousands of students around the country headed back to college campuses this month, COVID testing is something every college needs to plan for: Who, how, and how often? The “how often” question was answered last week in a study Read more…
Can’t I just give my nose a little break while I’m wearing my mask?
Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Nope. COVER THOSE SCHNOZES! Why? The nose is often the first place the virus attaches and is a replication hotspot. This may be because ACE2 — the cell surface receptor that the virus uses to get into cells — is more abundant on nasal-lining cells and less abundant on the surface of lower airway Read more…
Population Basics Part 1
Data and Metrics
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic is excited to introduce Nerdy Guest Michal Engelman, PhD. Dr. Engelman teaches and studies population health and aging at UW-Madison’s Center for Demography and Ecology. She joins us today to talk some basics about population. She’ll be back for part 2 on Thursday! Q: I’ve never heard the word population so much in Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: Try out an alternative that leads with mutual respect, such as: “Sir, can we please put a little space between us?” This suggestion is offered by etiquette expert Elaine Swann, author of the book “Let Crazy Be Crazy: Then Politely Get What You Want, Get Your Point Across, and Gently Put Rude People in Read more…
How frequently should students in a college community get tested in order to prevent large COVID-19 outbreaks?
Reopening School Testing and Contact TracingAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Every 2 days, according to one recently-published model. Every 2 days!? Whaaaaah???? With hundreds of thousands of students around the country headed back to college campuses this month, COVID testing is something every college needs to plan for: Who, how, and how often? The “how often” question was answered last week in a study Read more…
Can’t I just give my nose a little break while I’m wearing my mask?
Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Nope. COVER THOSE SCHNOZES! Why? The nose is often the first place the virus attaches and is a replication hotspot. This may be because ACE2 — the cell surface receptor that the virus uses to get into cells — is more abundant on nasal-lining cells and less abundant on the surface of lower airway Read more…
Population Basics Part 1
Data and Metrics
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic is excited to introduce Nerdy Guest Michal Engelman, PhD. Dr. Engelman teaches and studies population health and aging at UW-Madison’s Center for Demography and Ecology. She joins us today to talk some basics about population. She’ll be back for part 2 on Thursday! Q: I’ve never heard the word population so much in Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: Every 2 days, according to one recently-published model. Every 2 days!? Whaaaaah???? With hundreds of thousands of students around the country headed back to college campuses this month, COVID testing is something every college needs to plan for: Who, how, and how often? The “how often” question was answered last week in a study Read more…
Can’t I just give my nose a little break while I’m wearing my mask?
Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Nope. COVER THOSE SCHNOZES! Why? The nose is often the first place the virus attaches and is a replication hotspot. This may be because ACE2 — the cell surface receptor that the virus uses to get into cells — is more abundant on nasal-lining cells and less abundant on the surface of lower airway Read more…
Population Basics Part 1
Data and Metrics
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic is excited to introduce Nerdy Guest Michal Engelman, PhD. Dr. Engelman teaches and studies population health and aging at UW-Madison’s Center for Demography and Ecology. She joins us today to talk some basics about population. She’ll be back for part 2 on Thursday! Q: I’ve never heard the word population so much in Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: Nope. COVER THOSE SCHNOZES! Why? The nose is often the first place the virus attaches and is a replication hotspot. This may be because ACE2 — the cell surface receptor that the virus uses to get into cells — is more abundant on nasal-lining cells and less abundant on the surface of lower airway Read more…
Population Basics Part 1
Data and MetricsMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Dear Pandemic is excited to introduce Nerdy Guest Michal Engelman, PhD. Dr. Engelman teaches and studies population health and aging at UW-Madison’s Center for Demography and Ecology. She joins us today to talk some basics about population. She’ll be back for part 2 on Thursday! Q: I’ve never heard the word population so much in Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
Dear Pandemic is excited to introduce Nerdy Guest Michal Engelman, PhD. Dr. Engelman teaches and studies population health and aging at UW-Madison’s Center for Demography and Ecology. She joins us today to talk some basics about population. She’ll be back for part 2 on Thursday! Q: I’ve never heard the word population so much in Read more…
COVID Outbreak at Georgia Camp
Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
Today we are highlighting another *outstanding* source for COVID info aimed for the general public, Your local epidemiologist, who gave us permission to repost their recent report on what happened in a COVID outbreak at a summer camp in Georgia. Attack rate among kids at an overnight camp in Georgia. A case analysis. What happened? Read more…
What is surveillance?
Data and Metrics Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand this concept last week in a Facebook Live Interview. Here we offer a brief follow up to continue to shed light on the concept of surveillance. Surveillance is: the early and systematic monitoring of community health data to inform Read more…
Is it safe for my child to play on public playground equipment when no other kids are around?
Families/Kids Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: The concern is not so much the playground equipment, but the activities that happen around the playground that require consideration. When making choices about playground visits, the following topics are worth consideration. Community Spread – The take-home message is that there are more counties in the country with rising cases of Covid-19 than the reverse. Read more…
What do we really know about COVID and kids?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: There are more questions than answers. What we know: ✅ Kids are capable of getting COVID-19 and transmitting it to both adults and other kids. ✅ Children who are infected with COVID-19 are more likely to have no symptoms or only mild symptoms, and more likely to recover quickly and without the need for Read more…
What happened to Buddy? Can animals get the novel coronavirus and die? Can pets transmit it to their owners?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental Health
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: Sadly, Buddy, a German Shepherd from Staten Island, NY, recently died. Buddy was the first dog in the US that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (side note: The disease is only called COVID-19 in humans). Technically, bloodwork confirmed that Buddy likely died from lymphoma. However, it’s hard to know the role that the novel coronavirus Read more…
HELP! I’ve had COVID-19 and now I’m losing my hair! Are the two related?
Clinical Symptoms Mental HealthSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A. Frustratingly, yes. More and more COVID-19 survivors have reported excessive hair loss following infection. Although this complication may not rank up there with some of more serious consequences that have been reported among “long-haulers,” excessive hair loss is still pretty disconcerting. It also adds yet another source of distress, with impacts on morale and Read more…
What’s the importance of ventilation in preventing SARS-CoV-2?
Infection and Spread Masks Reopening School Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
Q: How can I best manage the ventilation in my own office/school/home? A: Scientists are calling for more attention to VENTILATION in prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. You can help manage risk by opening doors and windows where possible, increasing outside airflow and filtration in HVAC systems, using portable HEPA air filters, and wearing masks indoors. Read more…
Hydroxychloroquine – yay or nay?
Treatments Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Shoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: The best evidence (still) suggests a resounding nay. ***** EDITED: 11:44 am to include FDA evidence review in the reference section ******* For our TGIF post we’re going to revisit the hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) debate, because let’s get real, friends…..it’s been quite the week on the HCQ information frontlines. We Nerdy Girls are here to Read more…
What is surveillance?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingShoshana Aronowitz, PhD FNP-BC
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
Meredith Matone Interview on Surveillance Our nerdy guest, Dr. Meredith Matone (Scientific Director, CHOP Policy Lab) helped us to understand the concept of surveillance.
How should I handle having a repair person in my home?
Families/Kids Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A: Only have someone come in if it’s urgent and your family is well; call in advance to ask about protocols; give the repair person some space; and clean up after. 1. If it’s not urgent, delay it–especially if there’s a lot of COVID in your area. And if someone in your household is sick, Read more…
Reopening Schools
Reopening School VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools Interview of Malia Jones, PhD, MPH on reopening schools on Channel 3000, Madison, WI.
What are teachers saying about returning to school?
Families/Kids Reopening School Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
A couple of weeks ago, Dear Pandemic posted our joint opinion on reopening schools, and several teachers left feedback that indicated they have not felt heard in the ongoing discussion. Taking that to heart, we asked a few K-12 teachers to do what they do best: educate us. What it would take for THEM to Read more…
