How can I support the mission of Those Nerdy Girls on Giving Tuesday?
Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Support for the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident Read more…
November 29, 2022
The maternal mortality rate in the U.S. is surprisingly (and unacceptably) high.
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Many people associate pregnancy with joy, especially if the person pregnant wanted to have a baby. Cultural norms usually drive us toward thinking about pregnancy and childbirth as a joyous occasion to be celebrated. While this is true, it is also the case that a shadow hangs over pregnancy and childbirth in the U.S. in Read more…
November 28, 2022
Is my access to birth control in danger because of Roe being overturned?
Reproductive Health
A. August Burns, MPH, PA, CM
A: As of now your legal right to birth control — including intrauterine devices (IUDs), birth control pills, and Plan B — is still protected by federal law in all 50 states though several states allow doctors and pharmacists to refuse to prescribe or dispense contraceptives. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to Read more…
November 25, 2022
NEW NERDY MERCH for Black Friday! (and a discount!!)
Uncategorized
Gretchen Peterson, Production Team
We’ve added some NEW NERDY MERCH just in time for BLACK FRIDAY!! And as a thank you to our amazing community, we’re offering 10% off all purchases through Tuesday. Fill your cart with gifts for all the Nerds in your life, and use DISCOUNT CODE: 349RDJ01D5SS Your purchases help financially support the science communication mission Read more…
November 25, 2022
Does turkey make me sleepy?
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 22, 2022
Tips for a safer Thanksgiving
Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 21, 2022
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
A: Support for the science communication work of Those Nerdy Girls comes in many forms. Here are a few ideas on our wish list! ** Financial Gifts Those Nerdy Girls aren’t going anywhere. While our work was born in a moment of crisis (a really long moment), the need for accessible, practical science is evident Read more…
The maternal mortality rate in the U.S. is surprisingly (and unacceptably) high.
Reproductive Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Many people associate pregnancy with joy, especially if the person pregnant wanted to have a baby. Cultural norms usually drive us toward thinking about pregnancy and childbirth as a joyous occasion to be celebrated. While this is true, it is also the case that a shadow hangs over pregnancy and childbirth in the U.S. in Read more…
November 28, 2022
Is my access to birth control in danger because of Roe being overturned?
Reproductive Health
A. August Burns, MPH, PA, CM
A: As of now your legal right to birth control — including intrauterine devices (IUDs), birth control pills, and Plan B — is still protected by federal law in all 50 states though several states allow doctors and pharmacists to refuse to prescribe or dispense contraceptives. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to Read more…
November 25, 2022
NEW NERDY MERCH for Black Friday! (and a discount!!)
Uncategorized
Gretchen Peterson, Production Team
We’ve added some NEW NERDY MERCH just in time for BLACK FRIDAY!! And as a thank you to our amazing community, we’re offering 10% off all purchases through Tuesday. Fill your cart with gifts for all the Nerds in your life, and use DISCOUNT CODE: 349RDJ01D5SS Your purchases help financially support the science communication mission Read more…
November 25, 2022
Does turkey make me sleepy?
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 22, 2022
Tips for a safer Thanksgiving
Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 21, 2022
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
Many people associate pregnancy with joy, especially if the person pregnant wanted to have a baby. Cultural norms usually drive us toward thinking about pregnancy and childbirth as a joyous occasion to be celebrated. While this is true, it is also the case that a shadow hangs over pregnancy and childbirth in the U.S. in Read more…
Is my access to birth control in danger because of Roe being overturned?
Reproductive Health
A. August Burns, MPH, PA, CM
A: As of now your legal right to birth control — including intrauterine devices (IUDs), birth control pills, and Plan B — is still protected by federal law in all 50 states though several states allow doctors and pharmacists to refuse to prescribe or dispense contraceptives. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to Read more…
November 25, 2022
NEW NERDY MERCH for Black Friday! (and a discount!!)
Uncategorized
Gretchen Peterson, Production Team
We’ve added some NEW NERDY MERCH just in time for BLACK FRIDAY!! And as a thank you to our amazing community, we’re offering 10% off all purchases through Tuesday. Fill your cart with gifts for all the Nerds in your life, and use DISCOUNT CODE: 349RDJ01D5SS Your purchases help financially support the science communication mission Read more…
November 25, 2022
Does turkey make me sleepy?
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 22, 2022
Tips for a safer Thanksgiving
Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 21, 2022
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
A: As of now your legal right to birth control — including intrauterine devices (IUDs), birth control pills, and Plan B — is still protected by federal law in all 50 states though several states allow doctors and pharmacists to refuse to prescribe or dispense contraceptives. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision to Read more…
NEW NERDY MERCH for Black Friday! (and a discount!!)
Uncategorized
Gretchen Peterson, Production Team
We’ve added some NEW NERDY MERCH just in time for BLACK FRIDAY!! And as a thank you to our amazing community, we’re offering 10% off all purchases through Tuesday. Fill your cart with gifts for all the Nerds in your life, and use DISCOUNT CODE: 349RDJ01D5SS Your purchases help financially support the science communication mission Read more…
November 25, 2022
Does turkey make me sleepy?
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 22, 2022
Tips for a safer Thanksgiving
Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 21, 2022
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
We’ve added some NEW NERDY MERCH just in time for BLACK FRIDAY!! And as a thank you to our amazing community, we’re offering 10% off all purchases through Tuesday. Fill your cart with gifts for all the Nerds in your life, and use DISCOUNT CODE: 349RDJ01D5SS Your purchases help financially support the science communication mission Read more…
Does turkey make me sleepy?
General Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
November 23, 2022
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 22, 2022
Tips for a safer Thanksgiving
Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 21, 2022
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
TL;DR: Not really. We get it. Thanksgiving is exhausting. And it’s tempting to curl up in a blanket after the big feast to take a snooze and/or avoid doing dishes. However, the widespread myth that the turkey-induced trance comes from the amino acid tryptophan doesn’t pass the pumpkin-spiced sniff test. Here are some relevant facts: Read more…
My uncle is knee-deep in COVID conspiracy theories. Any tips for respectfully engaging him?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
November 22, 2022
Tips for a safer Thanksgiving
Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 21, 2022
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
A: Experts recommend the SART strategy: Show empathy; Affirm critical thinking; avoid Ridicule; and invoke conspiracy theory “exiters” as Trusted messengers. And it never hurts to remember that as humans we need to feel heard before we can truly listen. Ah, conspiracy theories. We’ve all been exposed to them – wildly inaccurate hot-takes about COVID, Read more…
Tips for a safer Thanksgiving
Socializing Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
November 21, 2022
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation Videos
Those Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
November 21, 2022
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
RSV, Influenza and COVID are hitting our hospitals (especially kids hospitals) hard. As we face another Thanksgiving with surging viruses, how can we enjoy precious moments with family and friends while lowering the risk of getting or spreading illness? Think in terms of harm reduction: a little bit better is a little bit better. Small Read more…
Dear Pandemic Live Q&A 11-21-22
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases Socializing Staying Safe Testing and Contact Tracing Uncertainty and Misinformation VideosThose Nerdy Girls offer advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: * Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Denying to the Grave & Contributing Writer at TNG * Read more…
Is there an easy way to figure out if I am eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
November 19, 2022
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
A: Yes, there is a handy on-line tool that can tell you whether you are eligible for a booster based on your age, doses you’ve already received, and whether you are immunocompromised. TL: DR: Visit https://bit.ly/3Ebthkt, answer a few questions, and find out if you are eligible for the new bivalent COVID-19 booster (which targets Read more…
Nerdy Girl Live Q&A on Mon, 11/21: Triple Threat Thanksgiving & Science Denial
Families/Kids Socializing Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Chana Davis, PhD
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
November 19, 2022
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
Monday, 11/21/22, at 1:30 pm EST/10:30 am PST Join Those Nerdy Girls for timely advice on staying well during a “triple threat” holiday season and practical insights into science denial – why it happens and how to navigate tricky conversations. Hosted by Those Nerdy Girls with: Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH: Co-Founder of Critica, Author of Read more…
Does Evusheld protect against the new COVID-19 subvariants?
COVID Variants
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
November 18, 2022
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial Justice
A: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
November 17, 2022
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
A: The new Omicron subvariants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are likely to be resistant to the monoclonal antibodies in Evusheld. It is especially important that people get the bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine to protect against infection. Evusheld is a combination of two monoclonal antibodies called tixagevimab and cilgavimab. It is used to PREVENT (not treat!) Read more…
Why are people now sharing their pronouns?
General Health Social and Racial JusticeA: Pronouns are the words we use to refer to ourselves or someone else when not using a name. Gender pronouns specifically refer to people and possession i.e. she/her/hers, they/them/theirs, ze/zir/zirs, etc. The correct use of names and gender pronouns is a compassionate act that can make an important difference in someone’s life. The 2015 Read more…
Should I get the flu vaccine while I’m pregnant?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
November 16, 2022
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
A: YES! The flu vaccine protects against the higher risk of severe flu disease during pregnancy AND protects the newborn from flu during the first few months of life. TL;DR: Flu season looks especially bad this year. Influenza (“the flu”) vaccination is strongly recommended in pregnancy. Because the virus is seasonal, vaccination is recommended as Read more…
We can still do our part.
Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…
You may have noticed the headlines in the past month or two. Kids, especially the littlest ones, have been increasingly at risk as we have seen more children admitted to the hospital for respiratory illnesses since August 2022. For babies in the 0-6 month group, it is estimated that 1 in 500 has been admitted Read more…


