I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! When should I get tested?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Who is eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a leading coronavirus researcher, kindly made this fantastic flow chart while preparing breakfast after a busy week of decisions in the US. The chart quickly summarizes who is eligible for a third dose of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine at this time. More information and decisions are expected in the weeks to come about Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
Boosters for Pfizer/BioNTech approved for large group of Americans.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
Help! 🙋I’ve been exposed to COVID-19! 🙋 When should I get tested? Is test timing different for the Delta variant? The short answer: Get tested at the right time and repeat if needed. The details: The sweet spot for COVID-19 testing is 3-5 days after a known exposure, or when you begin to feel symptoms. Read more…
Are we over-stating COVID-19 mortality?
Data and Metrics Data LiteracyJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Who is eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a leading coronavirus researcher, kindly made this fantastic flow chart while preparing breakfast after a busy week of decisions in the US. The chart quickly summarizes who is eligible for a third dose of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine at this time. More information and decisions are expected in the weeks to come about Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
Boosters for Pfizer/BioNTech approved for large group of Americans.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: No. It’s bad. ➡️ The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest loss of life expectancy seen in many countries since World War II. ⬇️ U.S. males saw some of the worst losses—2.2 years of lost life expectancy in 2020. The drop was 1.65 years for U.S. females. We’ve talked about “excess mortality” in Read more…
J&J Vaccine: Real-world effectiveness and booster update
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
Vaccines
Gretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Who is eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a leading coronavirus researcher, kindly made this fantastic flow chart while preparing breakfast after a busy week of decisions in the US. The chart quickly summarizes who is eligible for a third dose of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine at this time. More information and decisions are expected in the weeks to come about Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
Boosters for Pfizer/BioNTech approved for large group of Americans.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
If you received the one-dose vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, we have some mostly good news. Johnson & Johnson/Janssen issued data recently showing that in the real world, a single dose of the J&J vaccine was 77-80% effective for preventing moderate symptomatic infections and 79-84% effective for preventing hospitalization after several months. This was a Read more…
What should I do if I lose my COVID vaccination card?
VaccinesGretchen Peterson, Chief Operations Officer
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Who is eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a leading coronavirus researcher, kindly made this fantastic flow chart while preparing breakfast after a busy week of decisions in the US. The chart quickly summarizes who is eligible for a third dose of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine at this time. More information and decisions are expected in the weeks to come about Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
Boosters for Pfizer/BioNTech approved for large group of Americans.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
With Pfizer boosters now approved for certain groups in the U.S., this question has been popping up in our Question Box on the Dear Pandemic website. Some tips! (for U.S. residents) 💉 What if I got my shot at a pharmacy? Contact the provider who gave you the shot. Most vaccine providers do keep a Read more…
Who is eligible for a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
VaccinesAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a leading coronavirus researcher, kindly made this fantastic flow chart while preparing breakfast after a busy week of decisions in the US. The chart quickly summarizes who is eligible for a third dose of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine at this time. More information and decisions are expected in the weeks to come about Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact Tracing
Chana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
Boosters for Pfizer/BioNTech approved for large group of Americans.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, a leading coronavirus researcher, kindly made this fantastic flow chart while preparing breakfast after a busy week of decisions in the US. The chart quickly summarizes who is eligible for a third dose of Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine at this time. More information and decisions are expected in the weeks to come about Read more…
Should I take a COVID-19 rapid antigen test? Part 1 in a Series
Testing and Contact TracingChana Davis, PhD
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
Boosters for Pfizer/BioNTech approved for large group of Americans.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
Should I take a rapid antigen test before visiting a vulnerable person (e.g. an immunocompromised parent)? What about before hosting a gathering or attending a big event? The short answer: Yes, yes, and yes! ⌛ Shortest post ever. JK. There is always nuance to consider when we talk about testing, because no test is perfect. Read more…
Boosters for Pfizer/BioNTech approved for large group of Americans.
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying Safe
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
DC Director overrules ACIP and also includes those at high risk due to occupational exposures. Update from this week’s ACIP meeting: ➡️ ACIP recommended 3rd doses for Pfizer/BioNTech recipients 65+ more than 6 months past their 2nd dose, and for persons 18-64 with underlying medical conditions. ➡️ ACIP voted NO on boosters based on occupational Read more…
Masks can be worn safely by most children.
Families/Kids Infection and Spread Masks School Staying SafeAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
😷 Reminder: Masks can be worn safely by most children. There are very few reasons for children to be exempt from wearing a mask in school. 😶🌫️ There is a lot of confusion around who can qualify for a medical exemption from a mask, especially as children are getting back to school. Many hospitals and Read more…
Why do children have less severe COVID-19 than adults?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: A better innate immune response may explain milder COVID-19 disease in kids, but they still CAN and DO get infected and transmit SARS-CoV-2, especially the more transmissible Delta variant. 👉🏽 TL;DR. Children have fewer ACE2 receptors, a more robust innate immune system, and produce more anti-viral proteins (like type 1 interferons) than adults. These Read more…
WHAT the heck is going on with booster shots?!
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A: Booster doses are coming soon for older adults in the U.S. and U.K who are 6 months past their 2nd dose. If you’re having a hard time keeping up with the data and discussion around 3rd doses or booster shots of the COVID-19 vaccines, you’re not alone! (And what’s the differences between a booster Read more…
BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11
Families/Kids VaccinesLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
💥 BIG NEWS: Pfizer reports out on vaccine data for kids 5-11 💥 And the data look good! Here’s the punchline via CNBC: ” Pfizer and BioNTech’s Covid vaccine is safe and appears to generate a robust immune response in a clinical trial of kids 5 to 11, the drugmakers announced. The companies tested a Read more…
Roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19.
Data and MetricsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact Tracing
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
As the official U.S. COVID-19 death toll passed 663,000 this past week, this means that roughly 1 in every 500 Americans has died of COVID-19. Sadly, as we wrote about last week, this number is likely an *underestimate* of the actual death toll. It also obscures social disparities in the burden of COVID-19 mortality. For Read more…
What counts as being exposed to COVID-19?
Infection and Spread Testing and Contact TracingAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
If my mom went to the hair salon on Thursday (hair stylist was masked, mom wasn’t) and her hair stylist developed COVID-19 symptoms on Saturday, then I saw my mom (outside, not distanced or masked) on Sunday, am I exposed and should I get tested? A: We get it, figuring out when and if to Read more…
Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
A quick reminder: Most people can safely get the COVID-19 vaccine. 🙋 So who qualifies for a medical exemption from the vaccine? ✔️ Many people have received the COVID-19 vaccine at the time of this writing (200 million with at least one dose in the U.S.). There are no medical conditions that prevent people from Read more…
