How effective is the new RSV vaccine for older people?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
It’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
Health & Wellness
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Both new RSV vaccines are highly effective (over 80%) at preventing RSV disease. As we’ve recently covered, RSV can be a nasty illness for older adults, landing hundreds of thousands in the hospital each year and causing around ten thousand deaths annually in the US. The good news is that there are two new RSV vaccines approved Read more…
December 1st is World HIV/AIDS Day.
Infectious Diseases Reproductive HealthIt’s World HIV/AIDS Day. Where do things stand with HIV? Before we drop some knowledge, let’s take a moment to remember and honor those we have lost to HIV/AIDS. This Nerd lost Stuart and Bob, uncle figures and mentors in my childhood and young adulthood. I credit them for my love and passion for public Read more…
Are Ozempic and Wegovy “game-changers” for improving health?
Health & WellnessJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Semaglutide (aka, Ozempic/Wegovy), reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if you don’t have diabetes. But we still have a lot to learn. A new paper published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine reported very interesting results from a clinical trial of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. The Read more…
Will ketamine help my mental health?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
It can be helpful for some people with treatment resistant depression or major depressive disorder. Ketamine is a medication commonly used during surgery and was first developed to be an anesthesia medication with fewer side effects. It is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist and has been studied for nearly 20 years in mental health because Read more…
What COVID-19 shot am I supposed to get this Fall?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Most people just need one dose of the 2023 updated COVID-19 shot. The specific recommendations for various ages, previous vaccine status, and brands are in the tables in this post! Back in September 2023, the CDC recommended that everyone aged 6 months and older get the latest COVID-19 vaccine. People aged 5+ years just need one Read more…
Is ‘Immunity Debt’ Behind China’s Rising Childhood Pneumonia Cases?
Data and Metrics Infectious DiseasesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact Tracing
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
TL;DR: There is no “immunity debt” for individuals. But *populations* can experience a “catch-up” period after a period of low virus transmission, which is what seems to be happening in China right now. Recent reports of a high number of cases of childhood pneumonia in China definitely made epidemiologists a tad nervous. But so far, Read more…
Free COVID Tests Available Again Now in the US
Testing and Contact TracingGretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
🥳 Free COVID-19 tests are once again available in the US as of Monday, Nov 20, from covidtests.gov. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Each household can receive four tests. 📈 With lots of gatherings ahead and COVID cases on the rise, it’s always a good idea to have tests on hand. 📢 Please share this post to spread the Read more…
Why does the flu vaccine have to be updated every year?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Three reasons: 1. Influenza viruses mutate over time, 2. the virus strains circulating can vary year to year, and 3. our immunity wanes over time. That’s why the flu vaccine formula needs to be updated yearly, and we need to get a flu shot each season to be well-protected. Influenza viruses have proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Read more…
Q: Why can’t I get antibiotics for a cough?
Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
A: Taking an antibiotic when it’s not needed contributes to antimicrobial resistance and can put you and others at risk of more severe infections. TLDR: Antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, fungi, parasites or viruses mutate in ways that make common treatments ineffective. More and more antibiotics are losing their effectiveness due to antimicrobial resistance, so Read more…
How can I celebrate the holidays when I am grieving?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious Diseases
Roopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Grief can feel complicated, but know that you are not alone. Many people find this time of the year difficult, especially so when they are facing the death or loss of a loved one. The holidays can bring up feelings of sadness, loss around the rituals you had, and isolation as other people may not Read more…
Why should older adults be concerned about RSV?
Infectious DiseasesRoopa Seshadri, PhD, AM
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Adults 60 years and older are at a higher risk for severe RSV and complications like pneumonia and hospitalization because our immune systems get weaker as we age. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (usually called RSV) is typically thought of as an infection that is bad for infants and children. But you can get RSV at any age. Read more…
Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving
Families/Kids Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive Health
Katherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
‘Tis the season of SO many respiratory viruses! 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 steps you take to Read more…
Are folic acid and folate the same thing? How much and what type should I take if I could become pregnant?
Reproductive HealthKatherine Cartwright, DO, MPH
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
TL;DR Folic acid is a type of folate- one of the B vitamins (B9). A total of 600 mcg of folic acid is recommended daily for anyone who is pregnant or could become pregnant. This can be difficult to get from food sources alone, SO a prenatal vitamin or standalone supplement containing at least 400 Read more…
Why are there special flu shots for older adults?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive Health
MK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
People who are at least 65 years old can get a flu shot specially developed for their age group, and it offers better protection from the flu. Influenza vaccines have been around for nearly 80 years, and have undergone a number of changes during that long history. One of the more recent changes is the emergence Read more…
What is Transgender Awareness Week?
Reproductive HealthMK Haber, FNP-C, IBCLC
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive Health
Alexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Transgender Awareness Week is a time to protect, advocate for, celebrate, uplift, understand, and honor our trans community. Why is this important? There are many reasons to celebrate and cultivate awareness of issues around the transgender experience. Let’s start with a crucial goal of public health efforts: investigating and addressing health *hazards* and root causes. Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 11/17/23
Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about fall vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and RSV. Hosted by: – Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD: TNG Founding Member & Contributing Writer – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:59) ➡️ Who needs an RSV vaccine and why? What is Read more…
Can the new diabetes and weight loss drugs affect reproductive health?
Reproductive HealthAlexandra Hall, MD
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
A: Potentially, yes! Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may reduce birth control effectiveness and may increase risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. The new GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs have been a breakthrough in treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. They significantly improve blood glucose levels and lower body weight. Read more…
How many people die of the flu anyway?
Data and Metrics Infectious DiseasesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
It’s not “just a flu.” The flu is much more dangerous than a regular cold, especially for young kids, older people, and during pregnancy. The flu can kill over 50,000 people a year in the US in a bad year. “It’s just a bad flu.” We often heard this as a way to minimize the Read more…
Should I get a flu shot if I already had the flu this season?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
A: Yes. The flu shot covers FOUR strains – you don’t want to catch it again! TL;DR: It’s hard to know which flu strain you got or which one will be dominant in the next few months. Go ahead and get that shot even if you had confirmed or suspected influenza. The current flu vaccine Read more…
The number of babies born with syphilis has risen dramatically over the last 10 years. What’s going on?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive HealthSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
Tl;dr: Congenital syphilis is a disease that occurs when a pregnant person passes the infection on to their baby during pregnancy and can be very serious. Rates of congenital syphilis have significantly increased in the last decade. Congenital syphilis can be prevented by finding and treating syphilis in pregnancy. Unfortunately, lack of access to pregnancy Read more…
