How can I stay safe during the holidays?
Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Think in terms of harm reduction. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Just in time for Christmas, COVID is again on the rise. Flu and RSV may be peaking—but remember that there are often as many cases *after* a peak as before it. As we approach the festive season how can Read more…
I want to use an effective method of birth control, but how can I pay for it? It can be expensive!
Reproductive Health
If you or someone you know is struggling to pay for contraception, there are many options available. The most effective reversible forms of birth control, the IUD and the Implant, can cost from $400-$1300 if you’re paying out of pocket. While they last for years, that up front cost can be tough. Pills, patches, rings, Read more…
What is the contagious period for the flu?
Infectious Diseases Uncategorized
Chana Davis, PhD
People with flu are most contagious in the three to five days after they first feel sick. This is a bit later than COVID-19, which often spreads a day or two before symptoms. You might infect someone as early as a day before or as late as a week after becoming sick, but this is Read more…
Can I get contraception through the mail?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Yes! Getting contraception through the mail is a safe and secure alternative to seeking out contraception in person. Getting contraception through the mail is a great alternative to in-person care. It’s easier and faster, especially in areas of the country where women’s health clinics are not widely available. Right now, to get a prescription, Read more…
FREE COVID-19 RAPID TESTS ARE BACK
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Starting *today*, U.S. households can order 4 *FREE* rapid tests!!! The steps are easy: 🌟 Visit https://www.covid.gov/tests 🌟 Enter your name and address (and email if you want shipping notifications) 🌟 Tests will start shipping next week Order now to get tests you can use before holiday and new year’s gatherings! 🎉🎉🎉 P.S. If you Read more…
There are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19.
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Bad news! Because the Omicron subvariants of COVID-19 have become dominant in the US, there are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19. The newer circulating variants of COVID-19, called BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 have taken over, accounting for about 68% of all the circulating COVID-19 virus. This isn’t great news for us. Our last Read more…
Is it normal to be extremely anxious six months after having a baby? Everyone tells me it will get better.
Mental Health Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Some adjustment is normal, but sudden changes in how you feel may be a sign that you are experiencing a mood or anxiety disorder in the perinatal period (sometimes called a PMAD). TL; DR: It is normal to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, fatigue, irritability and other symptoms after you have Read more…
What is a toilet plume?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
Think in terms of harm reduction. Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Just in time for Christmas, COVID is again on the rise. Flu and RSV may be peaking—but remember that there are often as many cases *after* a peak as before it. As we approach the festive season how can Read more…
I want to use an effective method of birth control, but how can I pay for it? It can be expensive!
Reproductive Health
If you or someone you know is struggling to pay for contraception, there are many options available. The most effective reversible forms of birth control, the IUD and the Implant, can cost from $400-$1300 if you’re paying out of pocket. While they last for years, that up front cost can be tough. Pills, patches, rings, Read more…
What is the contagious period for the flu?
Infectious Diseases UncategorizedChana Davis, PhD
People with flu are most contagious in the three to five days after they first feel sick. This is a bit later than COVID-19, which often spreads a day or two before symptoms. You might infect someone as early as a day before or as late as a week after becoming sick, but this is Read more…
Can I get contraception through the mail?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Yes! Getting contraception through the mail is a safe and secure alternative to seeking out contraception in person. Getting contraception through the mail is a great alternative to in-person care. It’s easier and faster, especially in areas of the country where women’s health clinics are not widely available. Right now, to get a prescription, Read more…
FREE COVID-19 RAPID TESTS ARE BACK
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Starting *today*, U.S. households can order 4 *FREE* rapid tests!!! The steps are easy: 🌟 Visit https://www.covid.gov/tests 🌟 Enter your name and address (and email if you want shipping notifications) 🌟 Tests will start shipping next week Order now to get tests you can use before holiday and new year’s gatherings! 🎉🎉🎉 P.S. If you Read more…
There are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19.
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Bad news! Because the Omicron subvariants of COVID-19 have become dominant in the US, there are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19. The newer circulating variants of COVID-19, called BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 have taken over, accounting for about 68% of all the circulating COVID-19 virus. This isn’t great news for us. Our last Read more…
Is it normal to be extremely anxious six months after having a baby? Everyone tells me it will get better.
Mental Health Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Some adjustment is normal, but sudden changes in how you feel may be a sign that you are experiencing a mood or anxiety disorder in the perinatal period (sometimes called a PMAD). TL; DR: It is normal to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, fatigue, irritability and other symptoms after you have Read more…
What is a toilet plume?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
People with flu are most contagious in the three to five days after they first feel sick. This is a bit later than COVID-19, which often spreads a day or two before symptoms. You might infect someone as early as a day before or as late as a week after becoming sick, but this is Read more…
Can I get contraception through the mail?
Reproductive HealthSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: Yes! Getting contraception through the mail is a safe and secure alternative to seeking out contraception in person. Getting contraception through the mail is a great alternative to in-person care. It’s easier and faster, especially in areas of the country where women’s health clinics are not widely available. Right now, to get a prescription, Read more…
FREE COVID-19 RAPID TESTS ARE BACK
Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Starting *today*, U.S. households can order 4 *FREE* rapid tests!!! The steps are easy: 🌟 Visit https://www.covid.gov/tests 🌟 Enter your name and address (and email if you want shipping notifications) 🌟 Tests will start shipping next week Order now to get tests you can use before holiday and new year’s gatherings! 🎉🎉🎉 P.S. If you Read more…
There are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19.
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Bad news! Because the Omicron subvariants of COVID-19 have become dominant in the US, there are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19. The newer circulating variants of COVID-19, called BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 have taken over, accounting for about 68% of all the circulating COVID-19 virus. This isn’t great news for us. Our last Read more…
Is it normal to be extremely anxious six months after having a baby? Everyone tells me it will get better.
Mental Health Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Some adjustment is normal, but sudden changes in how you feel may be a sign that you are experiencing a mood or anxiety disorder in the perinatal period (sometimes called a PMAD). TL; DR: It is normal to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, fatigue, irritability and other symptoms after you have Read more…
What is a toilet plume?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
A: Yes! Getting contraception through the mail is a safe and secure alternative to seeking out contraception in person. Getting contraception through the mail is a great alternative to in-person care. It’s easier and faster, especially in areas of the country where women’s health clinics are not widely available. Right now, to get a prescription, Read more…
FREE COVID-19 RAPID TESTS ARE BACK
Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Starting *today*, U.S. households can order 4 *FREE* rapid tests!!! The steps are easy: 🌟 Visit https://www.covid.gov/tests 🌟 Enter your name and address (and email if you want shipping notifications) 🌟 Tests will start shipping next week Order now to get tests you can use before holiday and new year’s gatherings! 🎉🎉🎉 P.S. If you Read more…
There are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19.
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Bad news! Because the Omicron subvariants of COVID-19 have become dominant in the US, there are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19. The newer circulating variants of COVID-19, called BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 have taken over, accounting for about 68% of all the circulating COVID-19 virus. This isn’t great news for us. Our last Read more…
Is it normal to be extremely anxious six months after having a baby? Everyone tells me it will get better.
Mental Health Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Some adjustment is normal, but sudden changes in how you feel may be a sign that you are experiencing a mood or anxiety disorder in the perinatal period (sometimes called a PMAD). TL; DR: It is normal to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, fatigue, irritability and other symptoms after you have Read more…
What is a toilet plume?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
Starting *today*, U.S. households can order 4 *FREE* rapid tests!!! The steps are easy: 🌟 Visit https://www.covid.gov/tests 🌟 Enter your name and address (and email if you want shipping notifications) 🌟 Tests will start shipping next week Order now to get tests you can use before holiday and new year’s gatherings! 🎉🎉🎉 P.S. If you Read more…
There are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19.
TreatmentsSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Bad news! Because the Omicron subvariants of COVID-19 have become dominant in the US, there are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19. The newer circulating variants of COVID-19, called BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 have taken over, accounting for about 68% of all the circulating COVID-19 virus. This isn’t great news for us. Our last Read more…
Is it normal to be extremely anxious six months after having a baby? Everyone tells me it will get better.
Mental Health Reproductive Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Some adjustment is normal, but sudden changes in how you feel may be a sign that you are experiencing a mood or anxiety disorder in the perinatal period (sometimes called a PMAD). TL; DR: It is normal to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, fatigue, irritability and other symptoms after you have Read more…
What is a toilet plume?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
Bad news! Because the Omicron subvariants of COVID-19 have become dominant in the US, there are NO monoclonal antibodies currently authorized to treat COVID-19. The newer circulating variants of COVID-19, called BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 have taken over, accounting for about 68% of all the circulating COVID-19 virus. This isn’t great news for us. Our last Read more…
Is it normal to be extremely anxious six months after having a baby? Everyone tells me it will get better.
Mental Health Reproductive HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A: Yes and no. Some adjustment is normal, but sudden changes in how you feel may be a sign that you are experiencing a mood or anxiety disorder in the perinatal period (sometimes called a PMAD). TL; DR: It is normal to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, fatigue, irritability and other symptoms after you have Read more…
What is a toilet plume?
General Health
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
A: Yes and no. Some adjustment is normal, but sudden changes in how you feel may be a sign that you are experiencing a mood or anxiety disorder in the perinatal period (sometimes called a PMAD). TL; DR: It is normal to experience feelings of anxiety, sadness, fatigue, irritability and other symptoms after you have Read more…
What is a toilet plume?
General HealthJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
A: A picture is worth a 1000 words. TL;DR: Close the lid. Scientists recently used lasers to measure aerosols (tiny water droplets) coming out of toilets after a flush. They found that a typical commercial toilet generates a strong upward jet of air that rapidly carries these particles up to 5 feet above the bowl. Read more…
Where can I get my kid who is <5 years old a COVID-19 vaccine?
Families/Kids VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
A: Your child’s clinician, health departments, pharmacies, and grocery stores are all possible options-but the ages <5 each site serves varies. TL; DR: Check with the person your child normally sees for medical care first. If they are not offering COVID-19 vaccines for kids <5, your local health department, pharmacy, or grocery store may be Read more…
Will antibiotics make my birth control less effective?
Reproductive HealthSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
A: The vast majority of antibiotics have no impact on the efficacy of birth control. Note: “The bottom line?” paragraph edited on 12/13/22. The medication guides that come with all medications in the U.S. warn patients that antibiotics (if anyone reads these?!) may interact with your birth control. In most cases, they are talking about Read more…
Help! There is a shortage of fever medicines for kids. How do I take care of my child with fever?
Families/Kids TreatmentsSarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
TL:DR: If your child is older than 6 months, they probably do not need to be treated for fever. Fever reducing medicines can be given if the kiddo is uncomfortable or has had febrile convulsions. But fear not! There are things we can do other than medicines to help our children feel better when they Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays with my family when I am grieving?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
It is complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not understand Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious DiseasesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
