Should I get the flu shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Short answer: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Sometimes people say “the flu” to mean a bad Read more…
“Endemic” Explainer
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
“We’re moving from pandemic to endemic.” We’re hearing this phrase tossed around more and more. In certain anti-science twitter circles, the hashtag #endemic is used as shorthand for the opinion that COVID-19 is overhyped, we’ve all been duped by the media into a hysteria over the pandemic; the vaccine is unnecessary; and everything should return Read more…
Tips for (Properly!) Washing a Cloth Mask
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
With many of us having trouble accessing or affording medical-grade masks, cloth masking remains a bedrock layer of protection for pandemic living. Dr. Cassandra Pierre, an infectious disease physician at Boston Medical Center, cautions that “a dirty or ‘soiled’ mask can reduce the efficacy of the mask itself. It can also become an irritant to Read more…
What’s going on with the Delta variant in the UK 🇬🇧? I heard cases were falling?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s a mixed bag—cases *have* fallen from their peak but have now plateaued at a high level. TL;DR: ➡️ Cases remain stuck at a high level in the UK, despite high vaccination rates (higher than the US). This speaks to the transmissibility of Delta and means things could get worse in the US. ➡️ Read more…
Does hand sanitizer really kill bacteria and viruses?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Yes. Hand sanitizers that contain 60-95% alcohol or 0.13% benzalkonium chlorides are effective in killing bacteria and destroying viruses when used properly. Washing hands with soap and water remains the best way to rid your hands of disease-causing germs. And there are a few germs that hand sanitizer will not kill. However, when there Read more…
PANDEMIC SHERO ALERT!!!
Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout out 📣 to someone who has been on the ground making sure those in her community have access to factual COVID-19 information and vaccines!!! Dorothy Oliver owns a general store in Panola, Alabama and as a central figure in her community capitalized on the Read more…
Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
Short answer: Yes! Except for a very few exceptions, flu vaccines are recommended for everyone 6 months and older. Read on for information about what to expect for this year’s flu season, when to get the shot, and why getting the flu vaccine is so important! Sometimes people say “the flu” to mean a bad Read more…
“Endemic” Explainer
Infection and Spread Uncertainty and MisinformationMalia Jones, PhD MPH
“We’re moving from pandemic to endemic.” We’re hearing this phrase tossed around more and more. In certain anti-science twitter circles, the hashtag #endemic is used as shorthand for the opinion that COVID-19 is overhyped, we’ve all been duped by the media into a hysteria over the pandemic; the vaccine is unnecessary; and everything should return Read more…
Tips for (Properly!) Washing a Cloth Mask
Masks
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
With many of us having trouble accessing or affording medical-grade masks, cloth masking remains a bedrock layer of protection for pandemic living. Dr. Cassandra Pierre, an infectious disease physician at Boston Medical Center, cautions that “a dirty or ‘soiled’ mask can reduce the efficacy of the mask itself. It can also become an irritant to Read more…
What’s going on with the Delta variant in the UK 🇬🇧? I heard cases were falling?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s a mixed bag—cases *have* fallen from their peak but have now plateaued at a high level. TL;DR: ➡️ Cases remain stuck at a high level in the UK, despite high vaccination rates (higher than the US). This speaks to the transmissibility of Delta and means things could get worse in the US. ➡️ Read more…
Does hand sanitizer really kill bacteria and viruses?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Yes. Hand sanitizers that contain 60-95% alcohol or 0.13% benzalkonium chlorides are effective in killing bacteria and destroying viruses when used properly. Washing hands with soap and water remains the best way to rid your hands of disease-causing germs. And there are a few germs that hand sanitizer will not kill. However, when there Read more…
PANDEMIC SHERO ALERT!!!
Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout out 📣 to someone who has been on the ground making sure those in her community have access to factual COVID-19 information and vaccines!!! Dorothy Oliver owns a general store in Panola, Alabama and as a central figure in her community capitalized on the Read more…
Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
“We’re moving from pandemic to endemic.” We’re hearing this phrase tossed around more and more. In certain anti-science twitter circles, the hashtag #endemic is used as shorthand for the opinion that COVID-19 is overhyped, we’ve all been duped by the media into a hysteria over the pandemic; the vaccine is unnecessary; and everything should return Read more…
Tips for (Properly!) Washing a Cloth Mask
MasksLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
With many of us having trouble accessing or affording medical-grade masks, cloth masking remains a bedrock layer of protection for pandemic living. Dr. Cassandra Pierre, an infectious disease physician at Boston Medical Center, cautions that “a dirty or ‘soiled’ mask can reduce the efficacy of the mask itself. It can also become an irritant to Read more…
What’s going on with the Delta variant in the UK 🇬🇧? I heard cases were falling?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s a mixed bag—cases *have* fallen from their peak but have now plateaued at a high level. TL;DR: ➡️ Cases remain stuck at a high level in the UK, despite high vaccination rates (higher than the US). This speaks to the transmissibility of Delta and means things could get worse in the US. ➡️ Read more…
Does hand sanitizer really kill bacteria and viruses?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Yes. Hand sanitizers that contain 60-95% alcohol or 0.13% benzalkonium chlorides are effective in killing bacteria and destroying viruses when used properly. Washing hands with soap and water remains the best way to rid your hands of disease-causing germs. And there are a few germs that hand sanitizer will not kill. However, when there Read more…
PANDEMIC SHERO ALERT!!!
Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout out 📣 to someone who has been on the ground making sure those in her community have access to factual COVID-19 information and vaccines!!! Dorothy Oliver owns a general store in Panola, Alabama and as a central figure in her community capitalized on the Read more…
Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
With many of us having trouble accessing or affording medical-grade masks, cloth masking remains a bedrock layer of protection for pandemic living. Dr. Cassandra Pierre, an infectious disease physician at Boston Medical Center, cautions that “a dirty or ‘soiled’ mask can reduce the efficacy of the mask itself. It can also become an irritant to Read more…
What’s going on with the Delta variant in the UK 🇬🇧? I heard cases were falling?
COVID Variants Data and MetricsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: It’s a mixed bag—cases *have* fallen from their peak but have now plateaued at a high level. TL;DR: ➡️ Cases remain stuck at a high level in the UK, despite high vaccination rates (higher than the US). This speaks to the transmissibility of Delta and means things could get worse in the US. ➡️ Read more…
Does hand sanitizer really kill bacteria and viruses?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Yes. Hand sanitizers that contain 60-95% alcohol or 0.13% benzalkonium chlorides are effective in killing bacteria and destroying viruses when used properly. Washing hands with soap and water remains the best way to rid your hands of disease-causing germs. And there are a few germs that hand sanitizer will not kill. However, when there Read more…
PANDEMIC SHERO ALERT!!!
Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout out 📣 to someone who has been on the ground making sure those in her community have access to factual COVID-19 information and vaccines!!! Dorothy Oliver owns a general store in Panola, Alabama and as a central figure in her community capitalized on the Read more…
Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: It’s a mixed bag—cases *have* fallen from their peak but have now plateaued at a high level. TL;DR: ➡️ Cases remain stuck at a high level in the UK, despite high vaccination rates (higher than the US). This speaks to the transmissibility of Delta and means things could get worse in the US. ➡️ Read more…
Does hand sanitizer really kill bacteria and viruses?
Staying SafeVerdena Jennings, DO
A: Yes. Hand sanitizers that contain 60-95% alcohol or 0.13% benzalkonium chlorides are effective in killing bacteria and destroying viruses when used properly. Washing hands with soap and water remains the best way to rid your hands of disease-causing germs. And there are a few germs that hand sanitizer will not kill. However, when there Read more…
PANDEMIC SHERO ALERT!!!
Uncategorized
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout out 📣 to someone who has been on the ground making sure those in her community have access to factual COVID-19 information and vaccines!!! Dorothy Oliver owns a general store in Panola, Alabama and as a central figure in her community capitalized on the Read more…
Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: Yes. Hand sanitizers that contain 60-95% alcohol or 0.13% benzalkonium chlorides are effective in killing bacteria and destroying viruses when used properly. Washing hands with soap and water remains the best way to rid your hands of disease-causing germs. And there are a few germs that hand sanitizer will not kill. However, when there Read more…
PANDEMIC SHERO ALERT!!!
UncategorizedAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout out 📣 to someone who has been on the ground making sure those in her community have access to factual COVID-19 information and vaccines!!! Dorothy Oliver owns a general store in Panola, Alabama and as a central figure in her community capitalized on the Read more…
Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
We want to take a moment to give a HUGE shout out 📣 to someone who has been on the ground making sure those in her community have access to factual COVID-19 information and vaccines!!! Dorothy Oliver owns a general store in Panola, Alabama and as a central figure in her community capitalized on the Read more…
Can you recommend good resources comprehensively tackling vaccine questions?
VaccinesLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: Yes! See below for a curated list. We know that many of you all are out there fighting the good fight – working hard to help spread evidence-based vaccine information and helping loved ones navigate lingering concerns. We’ve curated a list of non-partisan (and non-governmental) vaccine Q&A resources that we hope you will find Read more…
Pandemic Dating
SocializingLauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
SchoolJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids SchoolJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental HealthAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Standing Strong for Science: Needed now more than ever
The need for reliable health information is greater than ever, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to deliver trustworthy, evidence-based insights to communities everywhere. Every donation makes a difference. Will you stand strong for science with us? Thank you for supporting a healthier, informed future for all.