How to Think Like a Scientist
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Scientists share certain habits of mind, regardless of whether we study pathogens, people, or plants. As legendary astronomer Carl Sagan wrote: “Science is a way of thinking much more than it is a body of knowledge.” Today we launch an occasional series on “How to Think Like a Scientist,” starting with three key values we Read more…
So who’s getting COVID-19 these days?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Unvaccinated people, for the most part. Q: Will the “delta” variant change that? A: Not likely. As new cases of COVID-19 continue to decline in the US 🇺🇸and Canada 🇨🇦, but are rising steeply elsewhere (UK 🇬🇧and South Africa🇿🇦, we see you 🤗💕!), you might be wondering who is bearing the burden of new Read more…
Novavax Vaccine Update!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
GOOD NEWS TUESDAY–VACCINE EDITION! ➡️ TL;DR: 2-dose Novavax shows EXCELLENT protection, including against the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant. ➡️ The vaccine is cheaper to produce than mRNA vaccines, stored at fridge temperature, and will be a great boon to global supplies. It’s been a while since we heard from Novavax, a “protein sub-unit” vaccine candidate from Read more…
Infographics for Parents of Kids Under 12
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We hope the guidelines in this terrific infographic offer some help to parents who are trying to navigate keeping their under 12 kids safe while you–like many of us!–await vaccines in that age group! (Be sure to scroll ALL the way down to see complete information.) These graphic were developed by our good friends at Read more…
Can the vaccines make me magnetic?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. TL;DR: You are STICKY. Not MAGNETIC. BUT GOOD NEWS: Other superpowers from vaccination are likely, including immunity to a potentially fatal disease. From microchips to 5G reception, this year has been chock full of tall vaccine tales and viral videos. In recent weeks this has taken the form of “magnet challenges” showing refrigerator Read more…
“Prebunking” offers strong immunity to fake news.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you haven’t had a chance yet, please go check out the online game Bad News, which is not only fun to play but it will help you learn to spot misinformation. In Bad News, you play a media magnate intent on building followers and viral reach at any cost. It turns out, roleplaying in Read more…
What is the risk of teens developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
Scientists share certain habits of mind, regardless of whether we study pathogens, people, or plants. As legendary astronomer Carl Sagan wrote: “Science is a way of thinking much more than it is a body of knowledge.” Today we launch an occasional series on “How to Think Like a Scientist,” starting with three key values we Read more…
So who’s getting COVID-19 these days?
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread VaccinesAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: Unvaccinated people, for the most part. Q: Will the “delta” variant change that? A: Not likely. As new cases of COVID-19 continue to decline in the US 🇺🇸and Canada 🇨🇦, but are rising steeply elsewhere (UK 🇬🇧and South Africa🇿🇦, we see you 🤗💕!), you might be wondering who is bearing the burden of new Read more…
Novavax Vaccine Update!
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
GOOD NEWS TUESDAY–VACCINE EDITION! ➡️ TL;DR: 2-dose Novavax shows EXCELLENT protection, including against the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant. ➡️ The vaccine is cheaper to produce than mRNA vaccines, stored at fridge temperature, and will be a great boon to global supplies. It’s been a while since we heard from Novavax, a “protein sub-unit” vaccine candidate from Read more…
Infographics for Parents of Kids Under 12
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We hope the guidelines in this terrific infographic offer some help to parents who are trying to navigate keeping their under 12 kids safe while you–like many of us!–await vaccines in that age group! (Be sure to scroll ALL the way down to see complete information.) These graphic were developed by our good friends at Read more…
Can the vaccines make me magnetic?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. TL;DR: You are STICKY. Not MAGNETIC. BUT GOOD NEWS: Other superpowers from vaccination are likely, including immunity to a potentially fatal disease. From microchips to 5G reception, this year has been chock full of tall vaccine tales and viral videos. In recent weeks this has taken the form of “magnet challenges” showing refrigerator Read more…
“Prebunking” offers strong immunity to fake news.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you haven’t had a chance yet, please go check out the online game Bad News, which is not only fun to play but it will help you learn to spot misinformation. In Bad News, you play a media magnate intent on building followers and viral reach at any cost. It turns out, roleplaying in Read more…
What is the risk of teens developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
A: Unvaccinated people, for the most part. Q: Will the “delta” variant change that? A: Not likely. As new cases of COVID-19 continue to decline in the US 🇺🇸and Canada 🇨🇦, but are rising steeply elsewhere (UK 🇬🇧and South Africa🇿🇦, we see you 🤗💕!), you might be wondering who is bearing the burden of new Read more…
Novavax Vaccine Update!
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
GOOD NEWS TUESDAY–VACCINE EDITION! ➡️ TL;DR: 2-dose Novavax shows EXCELLENT protection, including against the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant. ➡️ The vaccine is cheaper to produce than mRNA vaccines, stored at fridge temperature, and will be a great boon to global supplies. It’s been a while since we heard from Novavax, a “protein sub-unit” vaccine candidate from Read more…
Infographics for Parents of Kids Under 12
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
We hope the guidelines in this terrific infographic offer some help to parents who are trying to navigate keeping their under 12 kids safe while you–like many of us!–await vaccines in that age group! (Be sure to scroll ALL the way down to see complete information.) These graphic were developed by our good friends at Read more…
Can the vaccines make me magnetic?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. TL;DR: You are STICKY. Not MAGNETIC. BUT GOOD NEWS: Other superpowers from vaccination are likely, including immunity to a potentially fatal disease. From microchips to 5G reception, this year has been chock full of tall vaccine tales and viral videos. In recent weeks this has taken the form of “magnet challenges” showing refrigerator Read more…
“Prebunking” offers strong immunity to fake news.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you haven’t had a chance yet, please go check out the online game Bad News, which is not only fun to play but it will help you learn to spot misinformation. In Bad News, you play a media magnate intent on building followers and viral reach at any cost. It turns out, roleplaying in Read more…
What is the risk of teens developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
GOOD NEWS TUESDAY–VACCINE EDITION! ➡️ TL;DR: 2-dose Novavax shows EXCELLENT protection, including against the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant. ➡️ The vaccine is cheaper to produce than mRNA vaccines, stored at fridge temperature, and will be a great boon to global supplies. It’s been a while since we heard from Novavax, a “protein sub-unit” vaccine candidate from Read more…
Infographics for Parents of Kids Under 12
Families/Kids Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
We hope the guidelines in this terrific infographic offer some help to parents who are trying to navigate keeping their under 12 kids safe while you–like many of us!–await vaccines in that age group! (Be sure to scroll ALL the way down to see complete information.) These graphic were developed by our good friends at Read more…
Can the vaccines make me magnetic?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. TL;DR: You are STICKY. Not MAGNETIC. BUT GOOD NEWS: Other superpowers from vaccination are likely, including immunity to a potentially fatal disease. From microchips to 5G reception, this year has been chock full of tall vaccine tales and viral videos. In recent weeks this has taken the form of “magnet challenges” showing refrigerator Read more…
“Prebunking” offers strong immunity to fake news.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you haven’t had a chance yet, please go check out the online game Bad News, which is not only fun to play but it will help you learn to spot misinformation. In Bad News, you play a media magnate intent on building followers and viral reach at any cost. It turns out, roleplaying in Read more…
What is the risk of teens developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
We hope the guidelines in this terrific infographic offer some help to parents who are trying to navigate keeping their under 12 kids safe while you–like many of us!–await vaccines in that age group! (Be sure to scroll ALL the way down to see complete information.) These graphic were developed by our good friends at Read more…
Can the vaccines make me magnetic?
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: No. TL;DR: You are STICKY. Not MAGNETIC. BUT GOOD NEWS: Other superpowers from vaccination are likely, including immunity to a potentially fatal disease. From microchips to 5G reception, this year has been chock full of tall vaccine tales and viral videos. In recent weeks this has taken the form of “magnet challenges” showing refrigerator Read more…
“Prebunking” offers strong immunity to fake news.
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
If you haven’t had a chance yet, please go check out the online game Bad News, which is not only fun to play but it will help you learn to spot misinformation. In Bad News, you play a media magnate intent on building followers and viral reach at any cost. It turns out, roleplaying in Read more…
What is the risk of teens developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
A: No. TL;DR: You are STICKY. Not MAGNETIC. BUT GOOD NEWS: Other superpowers from vaccination are likely, including immunity to a potentially fatal disease. From microchips to 5G reception, this year has been chock full of tall vaccine tales and viral videos. In recent weeks this has taken the form of “magnet challenges” showing refrigerator Read more…
“Prebunking” offers strong immunity to fake news.
Uncertainty and MisinformationMalia Jones, PhD MPH
If you haven’t had a chance yet, please go check out the online game Bad News, which is not only fun to play but it will help you learn to spot misinformation. In Bad News, you play a media magnate intent on building followers and viral reach at any cost. It turns out, roleplaying in Read more…
What is the risk of teens developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
If you haven’t had a chance yet, please go check out the online game Bad News, which is not only fun to play but it will help you learn to spot misinformation. In Bad News, you play a media magnate intent on building followers and viral reach at any cost. It turns out, roleplaying in Read more…
What is the risk of teens developing myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination?
Families/Kids VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
A: Rare cases of myocarditis have been reported after mRNA vaccines, particularly in young men. Reported cases have been mild and treatable. 👉🏽TL;DR: Cases of myocarditis have been reported following COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, particularly in younger men. All of these people recovered quickly after treatment. A definitive link between COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and myocarditis is Read more…
Vaccines do NOT Seed the Spread of New Variants
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
FACT OVER FALSEHOOD: A new occasional series The bad news: Setting the record straight on vaccine misinformation is a daunting job. The better news: Evidence-based strategies are effective in beating back bad info, and we can all help! Today we launch a new occasional series that fights back against vaccine myths using an evidence-based “truth Read more…
How do I navigate summer with unvaccinated kids? HELP!
Families/Kids Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEM
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
A: This is hard. While we seek an easy guide for summer activities with unvaccinated kids, there just isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sending strength and a few tips to everyone navigating summer plans with unvaccinated kids. This is Dr. Ashley Ritter here today. I regularly participate in complicated decision making with patients and their support Read more…
Meet Nerdy Girl Shero Chiquita Brooks-LaSure!
Women in STEMLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying Safe
Verdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
Health policy wonks across the U.S. are cheering the appointment of Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to the top job running the country’s public health insurance programs. Her agency – the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – is responsible for insuring over 150 million people through the country’s Medicare and Medicaid programs, which together account for Read more…
Why does social distancing work?
Staying SafeVerdena Jennings, DO
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
Q: Is this just another rule, or is there science behind it? A: Social distancing works to stop the spread of germs that are airborne after a cough, sneeze, singing, or even speaking. Some argue that the parameters are based on older science models. Newer models suggest that distances longer than 6 ft (2m) are Read more…
Pfizer moves forward testing a little-kid vaccine at lower doses!
Families/Kids VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/Kids
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
Big news! Yesterday Pfizer-BioNTech announced that they have completed a Phase I trial to determine the best dose for their COVID-19 vaccine in younger kids, and they’re moving on to Phase 2/3 trials which will test effectiveness and safety in children ages 6 months to 11 years. The short version: the Phase 2/3 trial green Read more…
Are hospitalizations for COVID-19 becoming more common in adolescents?
Data and Metrics Families/KidsSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and Spread
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
A: In a recent study released by the CDC, hospitalization rates for adolescents aged 12-17 were highest in early January 2021, decreased in March, and then increased a little in April. The good news: this is a point in time and looks like rates are going back down. The bad news: even though severe illness Read more…
What’s going on with the “Delta” variant in the U.K.?
COVID Variants Data and Metrics Infection and SpreadJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
A: Cases are rising quickly, possibly due to the variant formerly known as B.1617.2 ➡️ The Delta variant MAY be more transmissible and cause more severe infection, but the jury is still out. ↗️ The steep rise in cases in the U.K. in December and January was fueled by what was then known as the Read more…
