Spring is blooming, but your allergies don’t have to.
General Health
Hannah Mestel, MPH, MBA
Reduce your “pollen load” by using physical barriers like HEPA filters, saline rinses, and evening showers to stop seasonal allergies at the source. If you’ve stepped outside lately and felt like your eyes were replaced by sandpaper, you’re not alone. We love the flowers, but we could do without the microscopic yellow dust that turns Read more…
What is “Cicada,” the new COVID variant?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
You might have heard of a highly mutated new COVID variant that is making headlines. It’s a variant worth watching, but not worth panicking about — here’s what the science actually says, and what you can do to protect yourself. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front): “Cicada’, AKA BA.3.2 in science speak, is a variant to Read more…
Q: How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
General Health
A: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on January 6, 2023. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Second, get the AED, or Automatic External Defibrillator, because it can help Read more…
Got leftover medications at home? Here’s what to do.
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Medications have a way of piling up and can pose real risks. The good news is that getting rid of prescription and over-the-counter medications safely is simple, and any time of year is a good time to do it. 💊Medications have a way of piling up. A prescription you picked up but ended up not Read more…
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family? 🤔 Have you heard about the recent meningitis outbreak in the UK? Here’s what you need to know. TL;DR: A recent outbreak of bacterial meningitis in the UK, linked to a Read more…
What is decision fatigue?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn-out, run-down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever found yourself Read more…
The Hidden Choices Behind Geographic Data
Data Literacy
Claire Wilkinson, MPH
Geographic data, or information organized by location, may look precise, but it’s shaped by choices. How boundaries are drawn, how data are grouped, and how small numbers are handled can all change the story you see. Geographic data, or information tied to a specific place, often appears clean and straightforward – zip code, census tract Read more…
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17.
Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17. What do we need to know? During pregnancy, childbirth, or the first 42 days after delivery of a living child, Black people are dying at almost three times the rate as white people. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. After the initial feelings Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General Health
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Reduce your “pollen load” by using physical barriers like HEPA filters, saline rinses, and evening showers to stop seasonal allergies at the source. If you’ve stepped outside lately and felt like your eyes were replaced by sandpaper, you’re not alone. We love the flowers, but we could do without the microscopic yellow dust that turns Read more…
What is “Cicada,” the new COVID variant?
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases
You might have heard of a highly mutated new COVID variant that is making headlines. It’s a variant worth watching, but not worth panicking about — here’s what the science actually says, and what you can do to protect yourself. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front): “Cicada’, AKA BA.3.2 in science speak, is a variant to Read more…
Q: How can I help if someone has a cardiac arrest?
General HealthA: Quick CPR and use of an AED can save a life! Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the original published on January 6, 2023. When someone’s heart stops beating, there are three things to do. First, call 911. Second, get the AED, or Automatic External Defibrillator, because it can help Read more…
Got leftover medications at home? Here’s what to do.
General HealthIlana Gerjuoy, MPH
Medications have a way of piling up and can pose real risks. The good news is that getting rid of prescription and over-the-counter medications safely is simple, and any time of year is a good time to do it. 💊Medications have a way of piling up. A prescription you picked up but ended up not Read more…
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases Vaccines
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family? 🤔 Have you heard about the recent meningitis outbreak in the UK? Here’s what you need to know. TL;DR: A recent outbreak of bacterial meningitis in the UK, linked to a Read more…
What is decision fatigue?
Mental Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn-out, run-down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever found yourself Read more…
The Hidden Choices Behind Geographic Data
Data Literacy
Claire Wilkinson, MPH
Geographic data, or information organized by location, may look precise, but it’s shaped by choices. How boundaries are drawn, how data are grouped, and how small numbers are handled can all change the story you see. Geographic data, or information tied to a specific place, often appears clean and straightforward – zip code, census tract Read more…
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17.
Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17. What do we need to know? During pregnancy, childbirth, or the first 42 days after delivery of a living child, Black people are dying at almost three times the rate as white people. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. After the initial feelings Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General Health
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Medications have a way of piling up and can pose real risks. The good news is that getting rid of prescription and over-the-counter medications safely is simple, and any time of year is a good time to do it. 💊Medications have a way of piling up. A prescription you picked up but ended up not Read more…
I’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family?
Families/Kids Infectious Diseases VaccinesI’ve heard there was a meningitis outbreak in the UK recently. Can you tell me more and how I can best protect my family? 🤔 Have you heard about the recent meningitis outbreak in the UK? Here’s what you need to know. TL;DR: A recent outbreak of bacterial meningitis in the UK, linked to a Read more…
What is decision fatigue?
Mental HealthSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn-out, run-down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever found yourself Read more…
The Hidden Choices Behind Geographic Data
Data Literacy
Claire Wilkinson, MPH
Geographic data, or information organized by location, may look precise, but it’s shaped by choices. How boundaries are drawn, how data are grouped, and how small numbers are handled can all change the story you see. Geographic data, or information tied to a specific place, often appears clean and straightforward – zip code, census tract Read more…
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17.
Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17. What do we need to know? During pregnancy, childbirth, or the first 42 days after delivery of a living child, Black people are dying at almost three times the rate as white people. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. After the initial feelings Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General Health
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Tl;dr: Decision fatigue is that worn-out, run-down feeling we get when we have too many choices to make. As we become overwhelmed with choices, our ability to make decisions gets worse. We can minimize decision fatigue by reducing the number of decisions we need to make every day, having routines, and resting. Ever found yourself Read more…
The Hidden Choices Behind Geographic Data
Data LiteracyClaire Wilkinson, MPH
Geographic data, or information organized by location, may look precise, but it’s shaped by choices. How boundaries are drawn, how data are grouped, and how small numbers are handled can all change the story you see. Geographic data, or information tied to a specific place, often appears clean and straightforward – zip code, census tract Read more…
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17.
Social and Racial Justice
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17. What do we need to know? During pregnancy, childbirth, or the first 42 days after delivery of a living child, Black people are dying at almost three times the rate as white people. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. After the initial feelings Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General Health
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Geographic data, or information organized by location, may look precise, but it’s shaped by choices. How boundaries are drawn, how data are grouped, and how small numbers are handled can all change the story you see. Geographic data, or information tied to a specific place, often appears clean and straightforward – zip code, census tract Read more…
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17.
Social and Racial JusticeMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17. What do we need to know? During pregnancy, childbirth, or the first 42 days after delivery of a living child, Black people are dying at almost three times the rate as white people. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. After the initial feelings Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General Health
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Black Maternal Health Awareness Week is April 11 – 17. What do we need to know? During pregnancy, childbirth, or the first 42 days after delivery of a living child, Black people are dying at almost three times the rate as white people. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. After the initial feelings Read more…
What’s going on with measles (Part 2)
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines Videos
Cynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General Health
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
With measles cases now in 30 states (as of April 2026), many of our readers have questions about what they can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Nerdy Girl Dr. Cindy Leifer (Immuno Minutes) is here to answer them. Read our most recent post on measles by Nerdy Girls Dr. Cindy Leifer Read more…
Measles cases continue to rise, and it’s worrying.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines VideosCynthia (Cindy) Leifer, PhD
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General Health
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Measles is a virus that spreads from person to person in tiny droplets that stay in the air for hours. It is the most contagious infection in people. The good news is that there is a highly effective vaccine, which is greater than 97% effective if you get both doses. Watch this video from Cindy Read more…
How do I best navigate a health appointment?
General HealthAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks
Those Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Navigating the healthcare system is difficult – even for those without disabilities or social, financial, employment, and/or family challenges. Many helpful tips are available on various reputable websites, examples here, here , and here. But if you find you’re still frustrated (I’m betting you are), keep reading, and remember – you’re taking care of your Read more…
It’s National Public Health Week!
Health Policy
Riddle us this, Nerdies! What is crucial for the well-being of everyone but is all but invisible when it’s working effectively? Public Health, of course! It’s National Public Health Week, and Those Nerdy Girls would like to show our support to all our public health colleagues and raise up their voices and good deeds. We Read more…
Q: If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
MasksThose Nerdy Girls
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy Notes
Those Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
We thought April Fools’ Day would be a good time to post one of our most popular and humorous posts, originally published on July 25, 2020. A: Great question — and we know there are lots of folks out there who have similar concerns about masks. Maybe you’ve wondered about how useful or safe masks Read more…
April 1, 2025, The Day the Science Died
Nerdy NotesThose Nerdy Girls
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious Diseases
Pamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services issued broad Reduction in Force (RIF) notifications that wiped out entire divisions at federal health agencies, like the CDC. The author of this piece serves at one such agency and describes their experiences on that day. [NOTE: This is another in our series Nerdy Read more…
What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff?
Clinical Symptoms Infectious DiseasesPamela Chung, MD
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Jackie from Torrence, CA – What to do when a family member contracts C. Diff? I’ve read that the affected person can shed spores for months to years. How long do I need to bleach everything down? What procedures and products are recommended? C.diff (clostridium difficile) is tough to kill and it can spread in Read more…
What is Negativity Bias?
Data Literacy Uncertainty and MisinformationSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe Vaccines
Anna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Tl;dr: Negative bias is a type of cognitive bias where we tend to have a stronger response to negative stimuli and information than positive information of equal magnitude. We feel negative events more intensely and may dwell on them to our detriment. Negativity bias impacts how we consume the news, engage in relationships with other Read more…
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to measles?
Infectious Diseases Staying Safe VaccinesAnna Mueller
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General Health
Those Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
If you have been exposed to a measles case, check your vaccination status and watch for symptoms, especially starting around a week later. Measles outbreaks are becoming more common in the U.S. (You can read Those Nerdy Girls’ latest update on measles here.) What should you do if there is a confirmed case near you? Read more…
How can I prevent falls at home?
Aging General HealthThose Nerdy Girls
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Measles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial Justice
Guest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
Keep yourself as active as you can and clear your home of fall hazards. Even if you don’t notice an injury, falls can be an early warning sign for many health issues. Don’t delay asking for help when you need it! Roughly 1 in 4 adults over age 65 fall each year. About 800,000 people Read more…
We need to talk about measles, again – Measles Update – March’26
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMeasles cases continue to rise – this is worrying. The good news is that there is a super effective vaccine that protects you and your loved ones. Note – we use data from both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Brown University Pandemic Center’s weekly tracking report. While the CDC tracks Read more…
Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health
Health Policy Nerdy Nexus Social and Racial JusticeGuest Author Nicole Loew, PhD, RN
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
This post was written by Guest Contributor Dr. Nicole Loew. She has her PhD in nursing from the University of Iowa, and her research interests include understanding how women’s contexts impact their perspectives of sexual health and their sexual behavior. Political Determinants of Health: The Policies Behind Our Health When we talk about health, most Read more…
