Will there be a nasal spray COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Scientists are working on it, but it may be a year or longer before they are available in the U.S. and E.U. Several groups in the U.S. are working to develop nasal vaccines for COVD-19, but most are still doing pre-clinical trials in animals. Two groups have progressed to studying humans, and one of Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls’ Origin Story from March 2020
Uncategorized
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Who else is feeling serious March 2020 flashback vibes? #flattenthecurve It feels like both a million years and the blink of an eye. We Nerdy Girls thought we might be answering questions on here for a few weeks at the most. Despite all the stress, grief, and pain of the last three years, we are Read more…
Who should be screened for colon cancer?
General Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Most everyone aged 45-75 should be screened regularly for colon cancer. 💥 March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! 💥 ➡️ Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. Recently rates of colorectal cancer in younger people have been increasing. For that reason, guidelines were updated in 2021 Read more…
🍫 OH NO! I heard that chocolate is unsafe….Can I still eat chocolate?
General Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
➡️ The quick answer: Yes, just don’t eat too much. For most people, that is not more than an ounce a day. If you are at risk, pregnant, or a child (if you even eat dark chocolate), less than an ounce or so a day, no more than a few times a week. 🙋What is Read more…
March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day.
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Some groups in this country do not know they are at risk of getting HIV. Knowing your risk is an important step in preventing infection. Here are the stats from 2019*: Although the overall number of new cases is going down, there is still work to be done. 36, 801 new diagnoses of HIV in Read more…
What does the science say about Daylight Saving Time?
General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Permanent Standard Time is best for our sleep and circadian biology, which is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Sleep and circadian scientists advocate for ending the twice annual shifting of the clock. However, rather than switching to permanent Daylight Saving Time (which has more light at the end of the day), Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 03/09/23
General Health Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about COVID-19 and more. Today’s topics include boosters, masking, and the media frenzy about erythritol and health. Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD:TNG Editor in Chief & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Hello and Introductions: Read more…
Can my kids get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEM
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
A: Scientists are working on it, but it may be a year or longer before they are available in the U.S. and E.U. Several groups in the U.S. are working to develop nasal vaccines for COVD-19, but most are still doing pre-clinical trials in animals. Two groups have progressed to studying humans, and one of Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls’ Origin Story from March 2020
UncategorizedJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Who else is feeling serious March 2020 flashback vibes? #flattenthecurve It feels like both a million years and the blink of an eye. We Nerdy Girls thought we might be answering questions on here for a few weeks at the most. Despite all the stress, grief, and pain of the last three years, we are Read more…
Who should be screened for colon cancer?
General Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Most everyone aged 45-75 should be screened regularly for colon cancer. 💥 March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! 💥 ➡️ Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. Recently rates of colorectal cancer in younger people have been increasing. For that reason, guidelines were updated in 2021 Read more…
🍫 OH NO! I heard that chocolate is unsafe….Can I still eat chocolate?
General Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
➡️ The quick answer: Yes, just don’t eat too much. For most people, that is not more than an ounce a day. If you are at risk, pregnant, or a child (if you even eat dark chocolate), less than an ounce or so a day, no more than a few times a week. 🙋What is Read more…
March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day.
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Some groups in this country do not know they are at risk of getting HIV. Knowing your risk is an important step in preventing infection. Here are the stats from 2019*: Although the overall number of new cases is going down, there is still work to be done. 36, 801 new diagnoses of HIV in Read more…
What does the science say about Daylight Saving Time?
General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Permanent Standard Time is best for our sleep and circadian biology, which is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Sleep and circadian scientists advocate for ending the twice annual shifting of the clock. However, rather than switching to permanent Daylight Saving Time (which has more light at the end of the day), Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 03/09/23
General Health Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about COVID-19 and more. Today’s topics include boosters, masking, and the media frenzy about erythritol and health. Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD:TNG Editor in Chief & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Hello and Introductions: Read more…
Can my kids get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEM
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
Who else is feeling serious March 2020 flashback vibes? #flattenthecurve It feels like both a million years and the blink of an eye. We Nerdy Girls thought we might be answering questions on here for a few weeks at the most. Despite all the stress, grief, and pain of the last three years, we are Read more…
Who should be screened for colon cancer?
General HealthAlexandra Hall, MD
A: Most everyone aged 45-75 should be screened regularly for colon cancer. 💥 March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! 💥 ➡️ Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. Recently rates of colorectal cancer in younger people have been increasing. For that reason, guidelines were updated in 2021 Read more…
🍫 OH NO! I heard that chocolate is unsafe….Can I still eat chocolate?
General Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
➡️ The quick answer: Yes, just don’t eat too much. For most people, that is not more than an ounce a day. If you are at risk, pregnant, or a child (if you even eat dark chocolate), less than an ounce or so a day, no more than a few times a week. 🙋What is Read more…
March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day.
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Some groups in this country do not know they are at risk of getting HIV. Knowing your risk is an important step in preventing infection. Here are the stats from 2019*: Although the overall number of new cases is going down, there is still work to be done. 36, 801 new diagnoses of HIV in Read more…
What does the science say about Daylight Saving Time?
General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Permanent Standard Time is best for our sleep and circadian biology, which is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Sleep and circadian scientists advocate for ending the twice annual shifting of the clock. However, rather than switching to permanent Daylight Saving Time (which has more light at the end of the day), Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 03/09/23
General Health Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about COVID-19 and more. Today’s topics include boosters, masking, and the media frenzy about erythritol and health. Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD:TNG Editor in Chief & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Hello and Introductions: Read more…
Can my kids get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEM
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
A: Most everyone aged 45-75 should be screened regularly for colon cancer. 💥 March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! 💥 ➡️ Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States. Recently rates of colorectal cancer in younger people have been increasing. For that reason, guidelines were updated in 2021 Read more…
🍫 OH NO! I heard that chocolate is unsafe….Can I still eat chocolate?
General HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
➡️ The quick answer: Yes, just don’t eat too much. For most people, that is not more than an ounce a day. If you are at risk, pregnant, or a child (if you even eat dark chocolate), less than an ounce or so a day, no more than a few times a week. 🙋What is Read more…
March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day.
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Some groups in this country do not know they are at risk of getting HIV. Knowing your risk is an important step in preventing infection. Here are the stats from 2019*: Although the overall number of new cases is going down, there is still work to be done. 36, 801 new diagnoses of HIV in Read more…
What does the science say about Daylight Saving Time?
General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Permanent Standard Time is best for our sleep and circadian biology, which is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Sleep and circadian scientists advocate for ending the twice annual shifting of the clock. However, rather than switching to permanent Daylight Saving Time (which has more light at the end of the day), Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 03/09/23
General Health Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about COVID-19 and more. Today’s topics include boosters, masking, and the media frenzy about erythritol and health. Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD:TNG Editor in Chief & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Hello and Introductions: Read more…
Can my kids get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEM
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
➡️ The quick answer: Yes, just don’t eat too much. For most people, that is not more than an ounce a day. If you are at risk, pregnant, or a child (if you even eat dark chocolate), less than an ounce or so a day, no more than a few times a week. 🙋What is Read more…
March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV Awareness Day.
Reproductive HealthMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Some groups in this country do not know they are at risk of getting HIV. Knowing your risk is an important step in preventing infection. Here are the stats from 2019*: Although the overall number of new cases is going down, there is still work to be done. 36, 801 new diagnoses of HIV in Read more…
What does the science say about Daylight Saving Time?
General Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Permanent Standard Time is best for our sleep and circadian biology, which is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Sleep and circadian scientists advocate for ending the twice annual shifting of the clock. However, rather than switching to permanent Daylight Saving Time (which has more light at the end of the day), Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 03/09/23
General Health Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about COVID-19 and more. Today’s topics include boosters, masking, and the media frenzy about erythritol and health. Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD:TNG Editor in Chief & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Hello and Introductions: Read more…
Can my kids get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEM
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
Some groups in this country do not know they are at risk of getting HIV. Knowing your risk is an important step in preventing infection. Here are the stats from 2019*: Although the overall number of new cases is going down, there is still work to be done. 36, 801 new diagnoses of HIV in Read more…
What does the science say about Daylight Saving Time?
General HealthLauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Permanent Standard Time is best for our sleep and circadian biology, which is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Sleep and circadian scientists advocate for ending the twice annual shifting of the clock. However, rather than switching to permanent Daylight Saving Time (which has more light at the end of the day), Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 03/09/23
General Health Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about COVID-19 and more. Today’s topics include boosters, masking, and the media frenzy about erythritol and health. Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD:TNG Editor in Chief & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Hello and Introductions: Read more…
Can my kids get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEM
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
A: TL; DR. Permanent Standard Time is best for our sleep and circadian biology, which is fundamental to overall health and well-being. Sleep and circadian scientists advocate for ending the twice annual shifting of the clock. However, rather than switching to permanent Daylight Saving Time (which has more light at the end of the day), Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 03/09/23
General Health Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Join Those Nerdy Girls for answers to your questions about COVID-19 and more. Today’s topics include boosters, masking, and the media frenzy about erythritol and health. Hosted by: – Jenn Dowd, PhD:TNG Editor in Chief & Founding Member – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Hello and Introductions: Read more…
Can my kids get the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other childhood vaccines?
Families/Kids VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEM
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
A: Yes! COVID-19 vaccines are safe to give with other vaccines. Vaccination is incredibly important and delaying vaccination can result in increased risks of infection, serious illness, or death. Many parents and families worry about giving the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. But we come with good news! It Read more…
Celebrating International Women’s Day!
Social and Racial Justice Women in STEMLauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and Spread
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
The Nerdy Girls at Dear Pandemic join the United Nations in celebrating International Women’s Day. Here are some ways you can too: 1.) Donate to a cause that supports women, including organizations that help women run for office (see link below). 2.) Write a letter or make a phone call to a woman that inspires Read more…
How many minutes of exposure does it take to get COVID?
Infection and SpreadSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
Contact longer than 15 minutes is more likely to result in infection, but you can still get COVID in shorter periods of time, depending on a number of other factors. In theory, how long you were exposed to the virus is an important factor in whether you end up getting it. For example, if you Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls would like to take a moment to remember and honor those we’ve lost to opioid overdose.
General HealthMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
Together, let’s help reduce the stigma of opioid use disorder by recognizing it as the chronic disease it is. Any one of us can develop a chronic disease, regardless of our background, income level, education level, or other intersecting identities. As with other chronic diseases, this is not about willpower or character. It is about Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious DiseasesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Ok, just what IS the difference between sex and gender?!
Reproductive HealthAlexandra Hall, MD
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
To answer this question we need to discuss three different things: Biological sex (body characteristics), Gender expression (how we communicate our gender to the world), and Gender identity (our sense of self). Biological sex refers to the different types of body parts (anatomy), chromosomes , and hormones present in a person. Typically, most folks are Read more…
Do masks work?
MasksJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
Yes. Despite a recent high-profile review, high quality masks DO reduce transmission of COVID-19 (and other respiratory viruses). A recent Cochrane review grabbed headlines for concluding there was “insufficient” evidence that masks are effective in reducing respiratory illness. Several good articles have outlined the limitations of this review. Read the links below for detailed critiques, Read more…
