💥 If you are pregnant- please, please get your COVID-19 vaccine!!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
According to the CDC, only 40% of pregnant people in the U.S. had been vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 1, 2022. Sadly, this low vaccine uptake is having tragic consequences. 💥 Vaccination during pregnancy: ➡️ Is safe (no connection with miscarriage or fertility). ➡️ Protects against hospitalization and death (both mother and baby) associated with Read more…
Chlorine dioxide can’t prevent or cure COVID-19 (but it can cause liver failure).
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Taking chlorine dioxide (or its relatives, such as sodium hypochlorite) does not prevent or cure COVID-19. And it is dangerous. Chlorine dioxide can cause acute kidney and liver failure, intestinal perforations with sepsis, vomiting & diarrhea, anemia, thyroid disruption, and neurological injury. It is not safe for human consumption. Not even if it comes labeled Read more…
When is the best time to test for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: The best time to test for COVID-19 depends on your situation. NOTE: Updated for clarity on 2/8/22 ➡️ If you were exposed, the sweet spot to test is 3-5 days later* ➡️ If you develop symptoms, test right away* ➡️ If testing to leave isolation, check for a negative rapid test on day 5 Read more…
Are cases peaking? That means it’s all downhill from here, right?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Sort of…. Remember that even if cases come down as quickly as they rise, there will be as many cases *after* the peak as before (think area under the curve!). ➡️ And if the downward slope is *slower* than the rise, we will see *more* cases during the decline from a surge. One potential Read more…
National News Literacy Week
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
🤓 NERD ALERT! 🤓 It’s National News Literacy Week! Those Nerdy Girls are working hard to grow a bright spot of sane science here on social media. Our biggest asset? YOU. Thanks to our science-loving community for spreading the good and debunking the junk. We are grateful for each and every one of you, each Read more…
Can I be a vaccine ambassador?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
YES! YES! YES! People are more likely to listen to information from someone they already trust. Here are a few wonderful resources to support YOU in becoming a community resource from Dr. Rupali Limaye, a behavioral and social scientist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tips on starting discussions about vaccines. See the Read more…
If more than one person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, do the positive people need to isolate from each other?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
According to the CDC, only 40% of pregnant people in the U.S. had been vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 1, 2022. Sadly, this low vaccine uptake is having tragic consequences. 💥 Vaccination during pregnancy: ➡️ Is safe (no connection with miscarriage or fertility). ➡️ Protects against hospitalization and death (both mother and baby) associated with Read more…
Chlorine dioxide can’t prevent or cure COVID-19 (but it can cause liver failure).
Treatments Uncertainty and MisinformationMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Taking chlorine dioxide (or its relatives, such as sodium hypochlorite) does not prevent or cure COVID-19. And it is dangerous. Chlorine dioxide can cause acute kidney and liver failure, intestinal perforations with sepsis, vomiting & diarrhea, anemia, thyroid disruption, and neurological injury. It is not safe for human consumption. Not even if it comes labeled Read more…
When is the best time to test for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
A: The best time to test for COVID-19 depends on your situation. NOTE: Updated for clarity on 2/8/22 ➡️ If you were exposed, the sweet spot to test is 3-5 days later* ➡️ If you develop symptoms, test right away* ➡️ If testing to leave isolation, check for a negative rapid test on day 5 Read more…
Are cases peaking? That means it’s all downhill from here, right?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Sort of…. Remember that even if cases come down as quickly as they rise, there will be as many cases *after* the peak as before (think area under the curve!). ➡️ And if the downward slope is *slower* than the rise, we will see *more* cases during the decline from a surge. One potential Read more…
National News Literacy Week
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
🤓 NERD ALERT! 🤓 It’s National News Literacy Week! Those Nerdy Girls are working hard to grow a bright spot of sane science here on social media. Our biggest asset? YOU. Thanks to our science-loving community for spreading the good and debunking the junk. We are grateful for each and every one of you, each Read more…
Can I be a vaccine ambassador?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
YES! YES! YES! People are more likely to listen to information from someone they already trust. Here are a few wonderful resources to support YOU in becoming a community resource from Dr. Rupali Limaye, a behavioral and social scientist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tips on starting discussions about vaccines. See the Read more…
If more than one person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, do the positive people need to isolate from each other?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
Taking chlorine dioxide (or its relatives, such as sodium hypochlorite) does not prevent or cure COVID-19. And it is dangerous. Chlorine dioxide can cause acute kidney and liver failure, intestinal perforations with sepsis, vomiting & diarrhea, anemia, thyroid disruption, and neurological injury. It is not safe for human consumption. Not even if it comes labeled Read more…
When is the best time to test for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
A: The best time to test for COVID-19 depends on your situation. NOTE: Updated for clarity on 2/8/22 ➡️ If you were exposed, the sweet spot to test is 3-5 days later* ➡️ If you develop symptoms, test right away* ➡️ If testing to leave isolation, check for a negative rapid test on day 5 Read more…
Are cases peaking? That means it’s all downhill from here, right?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Sort of…. Remember that even if cases come down as quickly as they rise, there will be as many cases *after* the peak as before (think area under the curve!). ➡️ And if the downward slope is *slower* than the rise, we will see *more* cases during the decline from a surge. One potential Read more…
National News Literacy Week
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
🤓 NERD ALERT! 🤓 It’s National News Literacy Week! Those Nerdy Girls are working hard to grow a bright spot of sane science here on social media. Our biggest asset? YOU. Thanks to our science-loving community for spreading the good and debunking the junk. We are grateful for each and every one of you, each Read more…
Can I be a vaccine ambassador?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
YES! YES! YES! People are more likely to listen to information from someone they already trust. Here are a few wonderful resources to support YOU in becoming a community resource from Dr. Rupali Limaye, a behavioral and social scientist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tips on starting discussions about vaccines. See the Read more…
If more than one person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, do the positive people need to isolate from each other?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
A: The best time to test for COVID-19 depends on your situation. NOTE: Updated for clarity on 2/8/22 ➡️ If you were exposed, the sweet spot to test is 3-5 days later* ➡️ If you develop symptoms, test right away* ➡️ If testing to leave isolation, check for a negative rapid test on day 5 Read more…
Are cases peaking? That means it’s all downhill from here, right?
Data and MetricsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Sort of…. Remember that even if cases come down as quickly as they rise, there will be as many cases *after* the peak as before (think area under the curve!). ➡️ And if the downward slope is *slower* than the rise, we will see *more* cases during the decline from a surge. One potential Read more…
National News Literacy Week
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
🤓 NERD ALERT! 🤓 It’s National News Literacy Week! Those Nerdy Girls are working hard to grow a bright spot of sane science here on social media. Our biggest asset? YOU. Thanks to our science-loving community for spreading the good and debunking the junk. We are grateful for each and every one of you, each Read more…
Can I be a vaccine ambassador?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
YES! YES! YES! People are more likely to listen to information from someone they already trust. Here are a few wonderful resources to support YOU in becoming a community resource from Dr. Rupali Limaye, a behavioral and social scientist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tips on starting discussions about vaccines. See the Read more…
If more than one person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, do the positive people need to isolate from each other?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
A: Sort of…. Remember that even if cases come down as quickly as they rise, there will be as many cases *after* the peak as before (think area under the curve!). ➡️ And if the downward slope is *slower* than the rise, we will see *more* cases during the decline from a surge. One potential Read more…
National News Literacy Week
Uncertainty and MisinformationLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
🤓 NERD ALERT! 🤓 It’s National News Literacy Week! Those Nerdy Girls are working hard to grow a bright spot of sane science here on social media. Our biggest asset? YOU. Thanks to our science-loving community for spreading the good and debunking the junk. We are grateful for each and every one of you, each Read more…
Can I be a vaccine ambassador?
Vaccines Women in STEM
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
YES! YES! YES! People are more likely to listen to information from someone they already trust. Here are a few wonderful resources to support YOU in becoming a community resource from Dr. Rupali Limaye, a behavioral and social scientist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tips on starting discussions about vaccines. See the Read more…
If more than one person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, do the positive people need to isolate from each other?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
🤓 NERD ALERT! 🤓 It’s National News Literacy Week! Those Nerdy Girls are working hard to grow a bright spot of sane science here on social media. Our biggest asset? YOU. Thanks to our science-loving community for spreading the good and debunking the junk. We are grateful for each and every one of you, each Read more…
Can I be a vaccine ambassador?
Vaccines Women in STEMAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
YES! YES! YES! People are more likely to listen to information from someone they already trust. Here are a few wonderful resources to support YOU in becoming a community resource from Dr. Rupali Limaye, a behavioral and social scientist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tips on starting discussions about vaccines. See the Read more…
If more than one person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, do the positive people need to isolate from each other?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
YES! YES! YES! People are more likely to listen to information from someone they already trust. Here are a few wonderful resources to support YOU in becoming a community resource from Dr. Rupali Limaye, a behavioral and social scientist from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tips on starting discussions about vaccines. See the Read more…
If more than one person in a household tests positive for COVID-19, do the positive people need to isolate from each other?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
A: Isolation is meant to keep others from getting infected. If multiple people in a household are positive, it is OK for them to isolate together. It gets a little more complicated when some people are infected, and others aren’t. Read on for tips and tricks to help you navigate this tricky situation. Many folks Read more…
Epstein-Barr Virus & Multiple Sclerosis
Infectious DiseasesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
Researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health dropped a public health bombshell this week in the journal Science: multiple sclerosis (MS) is likely caused by infection with Epstein-Barr virus, also known as EBV. MS is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. The disease involves an immune response that attacks the Read more…
Can the vaccines help prevent Long Covid?
Long COVID VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/Immunity
Guest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
A: 🎱 Signs point to yes. TL;DR: In a new study, vaccinated people infected with SARS-CoV-2 had the same risk of reporting Long Covid symptoms as *uninfected* people. That is SOME GOOD NEWS!! With Omicron infections piling up even among the vaccinated, we know many are worried about the prospect of Long Covid. Even with Read more…
I’m vaccinated, and I’ve recovered from Omicron. Can I finally let my guard down?
Biology/ImmunityGuest Author Jessica Williams-Nguyen, PhD
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical Symptoms
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
🙋 Asking for a friend… No wait, actually, I’m asking for me. After almost two years of precautions and a total of 10 vaccine shots, this Nerdy Girl’s family of four came down with COVID over the winter holidays, most likely the omicron variant. Now that we’re all fully recovered (thank you, vaccines!), it’s time Read more…
It’s just a sore throat. It’s not COVID, right?
Clinical SymptomsSarah Whitley Coles, MD
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
TL;DR: Sadly, it definitely could be COVID-19. The Omicron variant is more likely to cause sore throat and less likely to cause a loss of taste and smell. Don’t blow off that scratchy sore throat. It could be a symptom of COVID-19. The symptoms of COVID-19 have shifted a little bit as new variants take Read more…
Does a positive COVID test mean that I’m contagious?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact Tracing
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
If you get a positive antigen rapid test, it’s best to assume that you are contagious. A positive PCR test doesn’t tell you whether you’re contagious, because PCR can be positive for weeks after the infectious period. Neither PCR nor rapid tests directly measure contagiousness, but they both shed light on what’s going on inside Read more…
Covid.tests.gov Website Up and Ready for Your Order!
Families/Kids Testing and Contact TracingAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
Yes, it’s true! The covidtests.gov website is now open and ready for your order! Each household in the US can request 4 free rapid antigen COVID-19 self-tests. The request form is super quick and easy. Nerdy Girl Alison submitted her test request in way less time than it took to make this post. Tests will Read more…
If I haven’t had a booster shot yet, am I considered unvaccinated?
VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
A: If you are eligible for a booster shot and haven’t gotten one yet, you are considered NOT ‘up-to-date’ on your COVID-19 vaccine series. TL; DR If you are not ‘up-to-date’ this impacts your level of immune protection and it’s also recommended you follow the same quarantine protocol as those who are not vaccinated. Boost Read more…
