What is the difference between absolute risk and relative risk and why on Earth should I care?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: It turns out, how we describe risks REALLY matters and helps us better understand our healthcare choices. Read below for a review of how risk is calculated and communicated (and can be used for trickery!). The TLDR version: Absolute risk reduction is the number you actually want to know most of the time. Buckle Read more…
What should I do about the large discrepancies in vaccine efficacy against the Delta variant being reported across studies?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta variant, waning immunity, imperfect measurement, or something else? There are a number of reasons why COVID-19 vaccine efficacy may differ across studies. These new reports are measuring the effectiveness of the vaccines in real world settings instead of in a clinical trial. Isolating individual variables in a real-world setting can be difficult. Instead, Read more…
NEW CDC MASK GUIDANCE
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In recognition of the rising threat posed by the Delta variant, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today revised their guidance regarding mask use for vaccinated people. ➡️ Highlights of the new recommendations: 💥 Vaccinated people should wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial Read more…
If I got the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, do I need a booster because of Delta?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Reply hazy, try again. 🎱 While some scientists are sharing their own personal decision to boost their J&J vaccine with an mRNA second dose, the US vaccine regulators have not endorsed this strategy. This can put clinicians and pharmacists in a tough spot if a patient requests it. Meanwhile, many countries including Canada and Read more…
Why are 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK among the vaccinated?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: I heard 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK are among the vaccinated. What’s going on, this sounds bad? A: This is a confusing statistic, for sure. This number is actually good news and reflects the really high vaccine coverage of the older population in the UK. 🙋♀ Wait, what now? Let me explain! Read more…
Keeping Kids Safe Who Are More Vulnerable to COVID-19
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Nerdy Girl Joanna here. Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls gets many questions from parents concerned about how to keep their kids healthy and safe from COVID. Although this is an understandable consideration for ALL parents, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the extra considerations faced by families whose kids may be more vulnerable to Read more…
What can I do to stop health misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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 turns out, how we describe risks REALLY matters and helps us better understand our healthcare choices. Read below for a review of how risk is calculated and communicated (and can be used for trickery!). The TLDR version: Absolute risk reduction is the number you actually want to know most of the time. Buckle Read more…
What should I do about the large discrepancies in vaccine efficacy against the Delta variant being reported across studies?
COVID Variants VaccinesAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Delta variant, waning immunity, imperfect measurement, or something else? There are a number of reasons why COVID-19 vaccine efficacy may differ across studies. These new reports are measuring the effectiveness of the vaccines in real world settings instead of in a clinical trial. Isolating individual variables in a real-world setting can be difficult. Instead, Read more…
NEW CDC MASK GUIDANCE
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In recognition of the rising threat posed by the Delta variant, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today revised their guidance regarding mask use for vaccinated people. ➡️ Highlights of the new recommendations: 💥 Vaccinated people should wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial Read more…
If I got the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, do I need a booster because of Delta?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Reply hazy, try again. 🎱 While some scientists are sharing their own personal decision to boost their J&J vaccine with an mRNA second dose, the US vaccine regulators have not endorsed this strategy. This can put clinicians and pharmacists in a tough spot if a patient requests it. Meanwhile, many countries including Canada and Read more…
Why are 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK among the vaccinated?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: I heard 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK are among the vaccinated. What’s going on, this sounds bad? A: This is a confusing statistic, for sure. This number is actually good news and reflects the really high vaccine coverage of the older population in the UK. 🙋♀ Wait, what now? Let me explain! Read more…
Keeping Kids Safe Who Are More Vulnerable to COVID-19
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Nerdy Girl Joanna here. Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls gets many questions from parents concerned about how to keep their kids healthy and safe from COVID. Although this is an understandable consideration for ALL parents, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the extra considerations faced by families whose kids may be more vulnerable to Read more…
What can I do to stop health misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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: Delta variant, waning immunity, imperfect measurement, or something else? There are a number of reasons why COVID-19 vaccine efficacy may differ across studies. These new reports are measuring the effectiveness of the vaccines in real world settings instead of in a clinical trial. Isolating individual variables in a real-world setting can be difficult. Instead, Read more…
NEW CDC MASK GUIDANCE
MasksJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
In recognition of the rising threat posed by the Delta variant, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today revised their guidance regarding mask use for vaccinated people. ➡️ Highlights of the new recommendations: 💥 Vaccinated people should wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial Read more…
If I got the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, do I need a booster because of Delta?
COVID Variants Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Reply hazy, try again. 🎱 While some scientists are sharing their own personal decision to boost their J&J vaccine with an mRNA second dose, the US vaccine regulators have not endorsed this strategy. This can put clinicians and pharmacists in a tough spot if a patient requests it. Meanwhile, many countries including Canada and Read more…
Why are 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK among the vaccinated?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: I heard 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK are among the vaccinated. What’s going on, this sounds bad? A: This is a confusing statistic, for sure. This number is actually good news and reflects the really high vaccine coverage of the older population in the UK. 🙋♀ Wait, what now? Let me explain! Read more…
Keeping Kids Safe Who Are More Vulnerable to COVID-19
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Nerdy Girl Joanna here. Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls gets many questions from parents concerned about how to keep their kids healthy and safe from COVID. Although this is an understandable consideration for ALL parents, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the extra considerations faced by families whose kids may be more vulnerable to Read more…
What can I do to stop health misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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.
In recognition of the rising threat posed by the Delta variant, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today revised their guidance regarding mask use for vaccinated people. ➡️ Highlights of the new recommendations: 💥 Vaccinated people should wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial Read more…
If I got the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, do I need a booster because of Delta?
COVID Variants VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Reply hazy, try again. 🎱 While some scientists are sharing their own personal decision to boost their J&J vaccine with an mRNA second dose, the US vaccine regulators have not endorsed this strategy. This can put clinicians and pharmacists in a tough spot if a patient requests it. Meanwhile, many countries including Canada and Read more…
Why are 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK among the vaccinated?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: I heard 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK are among the vaccinated. What’s going on, this sounds bad? A: This is a confusing statistic, for sure. This number is actually good news and reflects the really high vaccine coverage of the older population in the UK. 🙋♀ Wait, what now? Let me explain! Read more…
Keeping Kids Safe Who Are More Vulnerable to COVID-19
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Nerdy Girl Joanna here. Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls gets many questions from parents concerned about how to keep their kids healthy and safe from COVID. Although this is an understandable consideration for ALL parents, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the extra considerations faced by families whose kids may be more vulnerable to Read more…
What can I do to stop health misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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: Reply hazy, try again. 🎱 While some scientists are sharing their own personal decision to boost their J&J vaccine with an mRNA second dose, the US vaccine regulators have not endorsed this strategy. This can put clinicians and pharmacists in a tough spot if a patient requests it. Meanwhile, many countries including Canada and Read more…
Why are 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK among the vaccinated?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: I heard 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK are among the vaccinated. What’s going on, this sounds bad? A: This is a confusing statistic, for sure. This number is actually good news and reflects the really high vaccine coverage of the older population in the UK. 🙋♀ Wait, what now? Let me explain! Read more…
Keeping Kids Safe Who Are More Vulnerable to COVID-19
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Nerdy Girl Joanna here. Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls gets many questions from parents concerned about how to keep their kids healthy and safe from COVID. Although this is an understandable consideration for ALL parents, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the extra considerations faced by families whose kids may be more vulnerable to Read more…
What can I do to stop health misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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: I heard 40% of COVID hospitalizations in the UK are among the vaccinated. What’s going on, this sounds bad? A: This is a confusing statistic, for sure. This number is actually good news and reflects the really high vaccine coverage of the older population in the UK. 🙋♀ Wait, what now? Let me explain! Read more…
Keeping Kids Safe Who Are More Vulnerable to COVID-19
Families/Kids Staying SafeJoanna Dreifus, MPH
Nerdy Girl Joanna here. Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls gets many questions from parents concerned about how to keep their kids healthy and safe from COVID. Although this is an understandable consideration for ALL parents, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the extra considerations faced by families whose kids may be more vulnerable to Read more…
What can I do to stop health misinformation?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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.
Nerdy Girl Joanna here. Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls gets many questions from parents concerned about how to keep their kids healthy and safe from COVID. Although this is an understandable consideration for ALL parents, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the extra considerations faced by families whose kids may be more vulnerable to Read more…
What can I do to stop health misinformation?
Uncertainty and MisinformationVerdena Jennings, DO
A: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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: Last week, the United States Surgeon General issued and Advisory titled “Confronting Health Misinformation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Building a Healthy Information Environment”. It outlines action steps for anyone to take to stop the spread of misinformation. For example, you can: -Learn how to identify and avoid sharing health misinformation -Engage with Read more…
UK’s Vaccine Rollout Dramatically Reduced COVID-19 Deaths
Data and Metrics VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
Treatments
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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 picture IS worth 1000 words. While the demographers among us had a hard time not seeing population pyramids here (please note this is days on the y axis, not age!), we think the image tells a pretty compelling story. Figure Source h/t to Nerdy Girl Dr. Alison Buttenheim for sharing this image on twitter! Read more…
Do monoclonal antibody treatments help for COVID-19 infection, and where do I get them?
TreatmentsSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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: Short answer: Yes. For people with COVID-19 infections who do not need to be hospitalized and who are at high risk of progressing to severe illness, monoclonal antibody therapies can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death. For the long answer, keep reading! Monoclonal antibody therapies use laboratory made antibodies that are similar to Read more…
Do immunocompromised people need a third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine?
VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General Health
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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. Maybe. Emerging data suggest that a third dose of COVID-19 vaccine can induce a better immune response in some immunocompromised people. The CDC is expected to meet in the near future to discuss a possible 3-dose vaccine regimen for immunocompromised people. In the meantime, the CDC has stated that the current vaccine regimen may Read more…
You’ve got to be kidding me: Monkeypox?!
General HealthMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now Read more…
Yes, it’s true: CDC has confirmed a case of the rare tropical disease known as monkeypox in a Dallas, TX resident who recently returned from travel in Nigeria. Here’s what you need to know about monkeypox. First of all, unless you spend time in central or western Africa, you’re probably not going to get it. Read more…
Why might Delta be more transmissible?
Biology/Immunity COVID VariantsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now Read more…
A: In the words of virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen, “people infected with Delta are shedding a s**t-ton more virus than with earlier variants.” A newly released study has provided some clues to Delta’s transmissibility tricks by testing viral loads in quarantined close contacts of confirmed cases. Contacts were tested daily by PCR, and the course Read more…
Can I get a COVID-19 vaccine if I am pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or think I might want to get pregnant soon?
VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now Read more…
A: Yes. The scientific evidence available to date points to COVID-19 vaccines being safe and effective during pregnancy and having no negative impact on fertility. While pregnant people were not enrolled in the vaccine trials, 23 people got pregnant during the Pfizer trial and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now 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.