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…
June 11, 2021
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…
June 10, 2021
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…
June 10, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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 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…
June 10, 2021
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…
June 10, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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 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…
June 10, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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 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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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 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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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 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…
June 9, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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/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…
June 8, 2021
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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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 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…
June 8, 2021
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 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…
If masks work, why can I still smell farts when I’m wearing one?
Masks Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
June 7, 2021
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 Read more…
A: TL;DR. Masks work to prevent disease spread because they keep out the bigger particles and still let you breathe. Even though mask policies and behaviors are relaxing in many places right now (Summer 2021), we want to remind you of the benefits of mask wearing with this fun question from Summer 2020. If you Read more…
Do the COVID-19 vaccines reduce transmission?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
June 7, 2021
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 Read more…
A: YES! Evidence continues to mount that the vaccines REDUCE BOTH ASYMPTOMATIC INFECTIONS AND TRANSMISSION. ➡️ While the Nerdy Girls are still dreaming of a world where transmission was explicitly tested in the clinical trials (☎️ call us next time), the data pouring in from around the world strongly suggests that the vaccines are very Read more…
WHO announces new names for SARS-CoV-2 variants
Biology/Immunity COVID Variants
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
June 6, 2021
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 Read more…
Let’s face it: B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 don’t easily roll off the tongue. While naming variants after the place they were first identified is common in virology, during the pandemic there has been concern about stigmatizing particular countries when using these names in public discussions. The WHO has adopted a new Greek alphabet naming system to Read more…
How did the two Nerdy Girl kids who are 12-15 years old do after getting their second Pfizer vaccine dose this past Thursday?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
June 5, 2021
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 Read more…
A: Both had sore arms and felt a little tired the next day. One kid had a headache the next day and the other had mild armpit pain that is now feeling better. One of them developed a mild rash on their arm near where they got their shot that is now almost gone. Both Read more…
Vaccine Talk from Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett
Vaccines Women in STEM
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
June 4, 2021
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 Read more…
Already missing the Nerdy Girl Saturday Q&A? You’re in luck! Grab your coffee, sit back and enjoy straight vaccine talk from the Moderna developer and Nerdy Girl in spirit Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett! Link to Original FB Post
Should you get vaccinated if you have already had COVID-19?
Vaccines
Vijaya Knight, MD PhD (D)ABMLI
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 Read more…
A: YES. Vaccination induces a more consistent and robust immune response even in those previously infected. 👉🏽 TL;DR: It is important to get vaccinated even if you have recovered from COVID-19. Vaccination boosts your immune response to COVID-19, giving you additional protection including to new variants.. ❓ What do we know about immunity following COVID-19 Read more…