Meet Those Nerdy Girls! Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Women in STEM
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Meet Those Nerdy Girls! Sarah Whitley Coles, MD – Founding Member Dr. Sarah Coles is an Assistant Professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix in the Department of Family, Community, and Preventive Medicine. She received her undergraduate degrees in molecular and cellular biology and saxophone performance from the University of Arizona. Read more…
Do we know if the new RSV vaccines are safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Possible safety signals were very, very rare in the RSV vaccine trials, and no surprises have emerged with roughly 12 million Americans having received them so far. There are two new vaccines available to prevent RSV and serious outcomes from RSV, both available in the US for adults aged 60 and up. Both were FDA-approved Read more…
What can I do to stop my eyes from feeling like sandpaper or watering like crazy, especially in the winter?
Aging General Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
An eye care routine can improve symptoms of dry, itchy, or watery eyes. Routine eye care includes keeping your fingers out of your eyes, gentle cleansing, using sun protection, and seeking care with a health professional when symptoms do not improve. Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation is a common condition affecting all ages, though the prevalence Read more…
Will I have to pay for my COVID-19 vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
No, in the U.S., COVID-19 vaccines are still free for everyone. They are either covered by your health insurance or by a government program if you are uninsured. With the end of the government’s official pandemic emergency response last Spring, the U.S. government no longer directly purchases COVID-19 vaccines to provide free to the public. Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu and updated COVID vaccines before the holidays!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Go get your flu and COVID vaccines NOW to be protected for the holidays. Peak protection takes around 2 weeks to ramp up, so now is the perfect time. No one wants to fall ill right before a big holiday family gathering. You also don’t want to be the one to infect grandparents, babies, or Read more…
Video – Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How common are side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls! Sarah Whitley Coles, MD – Founding Member Dr. Sarah Coles is an Assistant Professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix in the Department of Family, Community, and Preventive Medicine. She received her undergraduate degrees in molecular and cellular biology and saxophone performance from the University of Arizona. Read more…
Do we know if the new RSV vaccines are safe?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Possible safety signals were very, very rare in the RSV vaccine trials, and no surprises have emerged with roughly 12 million Americans having received them so far. There are two new vaccines available to prevent RSV and serious outcomes from RSV, both available in the US for adults aged 60 and up. Both were FDA-approved Read more…
What can I do to stop my eyes from feeling like sandpaper or watering like crazy, especially in the winter?
Aging General Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
An eye care routine can improve symptoms of dry, itchy, or watery eyes. Routine eye care includes keeping your fingers out of your eyes, gentle cleansing, using sun protection, and seeking care with a health professional when symptoms do not improve. Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation is a common condition affecting all ages, though the prevalence Read more…
Will I have to pay for my COVID-19 vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
No, in the U.S., COVID-19 vaccines are still free for everyone. They are either covered by your health insurance or by a government program if you are uninsured. With the end of the government’s official pandemic emergency response last Spring, the U.S. government no longer directly purchases COVID-19 vaccines to provide free to the public. Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu and updated COVID vaccines before the holidays!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Go get your flu and COVID vaccines NOW to be protected for the holidays. Peak protection takes around 2 weeks to ramp up, so now is the perfect time. No one wants to fall ill right before a big holiday family gathering. You also don’t want to be the one to infect grandparents, babies, or Read more…
Video – Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How common are side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Possible safety signals were very, very rare in the RSV vaccine trials, and no surprises have emerged with roughly 12 million Americans having received them so far. There are two new vaccines available to prevent RSV and serious outcomes from RSV, both available in the US for adults aged 60 and up. Both were FDA-approved Read more…
What can I do to stop my eyes from feeling like sandpaper or watering like crazy, especially in the winter?
Aging General HealthAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
An eye care routine can improve symptoms of dry, itchy, or watery eyes. Routine eye care includes keeping your fingers out of your eyes, gentle cleansing, using sun protection, and seeking care with a health professional when symptoms do not improve. Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation is a common condition affecting all ages, though the prevalence Read more…
Will I have to pay for my COVID-19 vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
No, in the U.S., COVID-19 vaccines are still free for everyone. They are either covered by your health insurance or by a government program if you are uninsured. With the end of the government’s official pandemic emergency response last Spring, the U.S. government no longer directly purchases COVID-19 vaccines to provide free to the public. Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu and updated COVID vaccines before the holidays!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Go get your flu and COVID vaccines NOW to be protected for the holidays. Peak protection takes around 2 weeks to ramp up, so now is the perfect time. No one wants to fall ill right before a big holiday family gathering. You also don’t want to be the one to infect grandparents, babies, or Read more…
Video – Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How common are side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
An eye care routine can improve symptoms of dry, itchy, or watery eyes. Routine eye care includes keeping your fingers out of your eyes, gentle cleansing, using sun protection, and seeking care with a health professional when symptoms do not improve. Blepharitis or eyelid inflammation is a common condition affecting all ages, though the prevalence Read more…
Will I have to pay for my COVID-19 vaccine?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
No, in the U.S., COVID-19 vaccines are still free for everyone. They are either covered by your health insurance or by a government program if you are uninsured. With the end of the government’s official pandemic emergency response last Spring, the U.S. government no longer directly purchases COVID-19 vaccines to provide free to the public. Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu and updated COVID vaccines before the holidays!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Go get your flu and COVID vaccines NOW to be protected for the holidays. Peak protection takes around 2 weeks to ramp up, so now is the perfect time. No one wants to fall ill right before a big holiday family gathering. You also don’t want to be the one to infect grandparents, babies, or Read more…
Video – Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How common are side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
No, in the U.S., COVID-19 vaccines are still free for everyone. They are either covered by your health insurance or by a government program if you are uninsured. With the end of the government’s official pandemic emergency response last Spring, the U.S. government no longer directly purchases COVID-19 vaccines to provide free to the public. Read more…
It’s not too late to get your flu and updated COVID vaccines before the holidays!
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Go get your flu and COVID vaccines NOW to be protected for the holidays. Peak protection takes around 2 weeks to ramp up, so now is the perfect time. No one wants to fall ill right before a big holiday family gathering. You also don’t want to be the one to infect grandparents, babies, or Read more…
Video – Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How common are side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Go get your flu and COVID vaccines NOW to be protected for the holidays. Peak protection takes around 2 weeks to ramp up, so now is the perfect time. No one wants to fall ill right before a big holiday family gathering. You also don’t want to be the one to infect grandparents, babies, or Read more…
Video – Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive HealthAlexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How common are side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How common are side effects from the shingles vaccine?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
4 in 5 people get a sore arm, and 1 in 6 people has a reaction severe enough to send them to bed–like headache, fatigue, muscle pain, or fever. Side effects usually last 1-3 days. One of the reasons people put off getting the shingles vaccine is that they’ve heard the side effects are nasty. Read more…
I am in perimenopause. What is happening to my brain?!
Aging Reproductive HealthMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
We have so many brain changes during the menopausal transition (MT) that they can make our heads spin. Changes in mood, memory, energy level, temperature regulation, cognition, executive functioning…The list goes on. We hear you: it can be frustrating and demoralizing. But fear not! Our brains bounce back and adapt to many of these changes, Read more…
How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive HealthIt’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
General HealthJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious DiseasesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact TracingGretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious DiseasesRoopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small steps you take to Read more…
