Pandemic Dating
Socializing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
I’m single and in my late 30s … Pandemic dating is so hard… What is safe protocol for dating when you are in that “multiple first date” space because you haven’t found someone you want to go on multiple dates with yet?” Dating is hard in the best of times! Once you factor in a Read more…
How and why do viruses mutate?
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
Q: What does this mean for future SARS-CoV-2 variants? A: After infection, the virus makes lots of copies of itself in the body which can lead to random changes (like typos) in the virus’ genetic code (mutations). While most mutations give no advantage to the virus, with enough chances for mutations, sometimes the virus hits Read more…
What can you do to improve the air quality and lower COVID-19 transmission in your school?
SchoolJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
A: HEPA filtration units are one good option. See below for some helpful guidance put together by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security: “Parents are facing hard decisions right now about in-person schooling. They may not know, for instance, that HEPA filtration units help reduce COVID-19 spread Read more…
Do you have practical advice for families around testing for COVID-19?
Testing and Contact TracingAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids School
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
Q: Are there good resources out there?” A: Yes! With people heading back to school and work and increasing risks of exposure, this is an important question. It is important to test at the right time, with the right test, and as often as needed. Before we dive in, here are a few details. Remember Read more…
Tips For Parents Facing Another Uncertain School Year
Families/Kids SchoolJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
Nerdy Girls Dr. Aparna Kumar and Dr. Ashley Ritter on tips for parents facing another uncertain school year: ➡️”Focus on what is controllable without trying to control everything.” and ➡️ “Think outside the box to maintain things that are important to your child but can’t happen as planned.” Read more here: NBC News: How moms Read more…
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for ages 16+💥
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental Health
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval to the Pfizer vaccine for ages 16+, meaning it is a fully licensed vaccine and no longer under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). ❓What does this mean in practice? Full approval may tilt the balance for some “wait and see” people on the fence about the Read more…
Can the framing of a message change how I process that information?
Mental HealthAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
A: YES! Thought pathways and subsequent actions are often influenced by the way information is received. This post will highlight a few common cognitive distortions AND tips for reframing information for more objective actions. A cognitive distortion is defined by the American Psychological Association as “faulty or inaccurate thinking, perception, or belief”. Cognitive distortions interrupt Read more…
Why has a third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines been recommended for immunocompromised people?
VaccinesVijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
Vaccines
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
A. Recent data has shown that a third dose of either the Moderna or the Pfizer mRNA COVID-19 vaccine boosts a previous weak or undetectable vaccine response in some immunocompromised people. This additional dose can help push the immune response to protective levels in some immunocompromised people. A third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine Read more…
Should I take a booster shot if I am fully vaccinated?
VaccinesVerdena Jennings, DO
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
A: Scientists at the World Health Organization say, ”No.” Not enough people in underserved regions of the world have received vaccination to effectively change the course of the pandemic. A pandemic is a worldwide epidemic. So the solution to ending the pandemic must take into account the world’s population. Citing a concern over the spread Read more…
Does Ivermectin help treat or prevent COVID-19?
Treatments Uncertainty and MisinformationSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
A: We don’t know for sure, but the best available existing data does not support its use to treat or prevent COVID-19. Lots of studies are ongoing and may give us a clearer answer over time. Ivermectin is a medicine that is used to treat infections from parasites (like worms) in people and animals. People Read more…
What are the best masks for kids?
Families/Kids MasksJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and Metrics
Lindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
We know this is a HOT topic among parents sending their kids back to school right now, and we wanted to share some recommendations from aerosol scientist and Nerdy Girl favorite Dr. Linsey Marr and her colleague Dr. Aaron Prussin from Virginia Tech. We are posting their advice below: “The most important factors to consider Read more…
📊 DATA SNAPSHOT: Hospital Strain 📊
Data and MetricsLindsey Leininger, PhD MA
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
Uncategorized
Joanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
How do we keep a pulse check on COVID-induced hospital overwhelm? Researchers monitor strain with a summary metric: % of total hospital beds filled with COVID-19 patients. No metric is perfect, but this one’s pretty darn useful. And by this measure, things are looking pretty grim in southern hospitals right now. Here’s the skinny on Read more…
Dear Pandemic Shout-Out to Healthcare Workers
UncategorizedJoanna Dreifus, MPH
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
Although the nightly cheering for health care workers doesn’t happen anymore, Dear Pandemic/Those Nerdy Girls wants these heroes to know how much we appreciate their efforts, now more than ever. We recognize the vast challenges they face right now as they fight the daunting wave of Delta variant across the United State. We know that Read more…
CDC STRENGTHENS RECOMMENDATION FOR COVID-19 VACCINATION DURING PREGNANCY
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
This week the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated their guidance to *recommend* Covid-19 vaccination for EVERYONE ages 12 and older, including those who may be pregnant, breastfeeding, or who are trying to get pregnant. Previously the CDC had stated that “If you are pregnant, you *can* receive a Covid-19 vaccine.” ➡️ Read more…
