Ohio Governor Announced Vaccine Lottery
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine just announced a $1,000,000 lottery drawing each week for 5 weeks starting in late May Ohio residents 18 and older who have gotten at least one vaccine dose are eligible. A separate lottery for under 18s has a different prize: A full ride at an Ohio state university. Governor DeWine Announces Read more…
May 12, 2021
¿Cuál es la definición de vacuna?
Vaccines
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Sigo escuchando a la gente decir que la vacuna para COVID-19 ‘no es una vacuna’, entonces, ¿cuál es la definición de vacuna? ¿Las vacunas para COVID son realmente vacunas? R: Una vacuna es un producto que se introduce en su cuerpo con la intención de crear anticuerpos contra una enfermedad específica, dándole la capacidad de Read more…
May 12, 2021
Are there really COVID-sniffing bees?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Turns out bees have great sniffers, just like dogs! Preliminary studies demonstrate up to 95% accuracy in detection of COVID-19 using multiple specially trained honeybees. Scientists of all stripes have stepped up to the challenge of helping fight the COVID-19 pandemic, including scientists who specialize in insects with yellow and black stripes. Researchers Read more…
May 11, 2021
FDA approves Pfizer vaccine for ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On May 10th the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially extended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer vaccine to ages 12-15. ❓WHEN can my 12-15 year-old get their shot? While we’ve heard anecdotes of immediate availability, most providers will wait to book appointments for those ages until after the CDC immunization advisory Read more…
May 11, 2021
Can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If vaccine demand is waning, can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot? A: Lotteries and other incentives could be really effective for promoting vaccine take-up. There are some potential pitfalls, too. Even before there were COVID-19 vaccines, there were pitches and proposals for Read more…
May 10, 2021
Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: I have trouble trusting that the United States is on the downward slope of this pandemic. Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment? Am I being alarmist or am I missing some key data? A: Optimism is healthy … even if it feels challenging right now. Years ago a friend of mine Read more…
May 10, 2021
Are the vaccines effective against new variants?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
May 9, 2021
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine just announced a $1,000,000 lottery drawing each week for 5 weeks starting in late May Ohio residents 18 and older who have gotten at least one vaccine dose are eligible. A separate lottery for under 18s has a different prize: A full ride at an Ohio state university. Governor DeWine Announces Read more…
¿Cuál es la definición de vacuna?
Vaccines
Tita Smyth Escobedo, PM-IT
Sigo escuchando a la gente decir que la vacuna para COVID-19 ‘no es una vacuna’, entonces, ¿cuál es la definición de vacuna? ¿Las vacunas para COVID son realmente vacunas? R: Una vacuna es un producto que se introduce en su cuerpo con la intención de crear anticuerpos contra una enfermedad específica, dándole la capacidad de Read more…
May 12, 2021
Are there really COVID-sniffing bees?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Turns out bees have great sniffers, just like dogs! Preliminary studies demonstrate up to 95% accuracy in detection of COVID-19 using multiple specially trained honeybees. Scientists of all stripes have stepped up to the challenge of helping fight the COVID-19 pandemic, including scientists who specialize in insects with yellow and black stripes. Researchers Read more…
May 11, 2021
FDA approves Pfizer vaccine for ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On May 10th the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially extended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer vaccine to ages 12-15. ❓WHEN can my 12-15 year-old get their shot? While we’ve heard anecdotes of immediate availability, most providers will wait to book appointments for those ages until after the CDC immunization advisory Read more…
May 11, 2021
Can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If vaccine demand is waning, can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot? A: Lotteries and other incentives could be really effective for promoting vaccine take-up. There are some potential pitfalls, too. Even before there were COVID-19 vaccines, there were pitches and proposals for Read more…
May 10, 2021
Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: I have trouble trusting that the United States is on the downward slope of this pandemic. Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment? Am I being alarmist or am I missing some key data? A: Optimism is healthy … even if it feels challenging right now. Years ago a friend of mine Read more…
May 10, 2021
Are the vaccines effective against new variants?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
May 9, 2021
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
Sigo escuchando a la gente decir que la vacuna para COVID-19 ‘no es una vacuna’, entonces, ¿cuál es la definición de vacuna? ¿Las vacunas para COVID son realmente vacunas? R: Una vacuna es un producto que se introduce en su cuerpo con la intención de crear anticuerpos contra una enfermedad específica, dándole la capacidad de Read more…
Are there really COVID-sniffing bees?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL;DR. Turns out bees have great sniffers, just like dogs! Preliminary studies demonstrate up to 95% accuracy in detection of COVID-19 using multiple specially trained honeybees. Scientists of all stripes have stepped up to the challenge of helping fight the COVID-19 pandemic, including scientists who specialize in insects with yellow and black stripes. Researchers Read more…
May 11, 2021
FDA approves Pfizer vaccine for ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On May 10th the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially extended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer vaccine to ages 12-15. ❓WHEN can my 12-15 year-old get their shot? While we’ve heard anecdotes of immediate availability, most providers will wait to book appointments for those ages until after the CDC immunization advisory Read more…
May 11, 2021
Can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If vaccine demand is waning, can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot? A: Lotteries and other incentives could be really effective for promoting vaccine take-up. There are some potential pitfalls, too. Even before there were COVID-19 vaccines, there were pitches and proposals for Read more…
May 10, 2021
Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: I have trouble trusting that the United States is on the downward slope of this pandemic. Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment? Am I being alarmist or am I missing some key data? A: Optimism is healthy … even if it feels challenging right now. Years ago a friend of mine Read more…
May 10, 2021
Are the vaccines effective against new variants?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
May 9, 2021
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
A: TL;DR. Turns out bees have great sniffers, just like dogs! Preliminary studies demonstrate up to 95% accuracy in detection of COVID-19 using multiple specially trained honeybees. Scientists of all stripes have stepped up to the challenge of helping fight the COVID-19 pandemic, including scientists who specialize in insects with yellow and black stripes. Researchers Read more…
FDA approves Pfizer vaccine for ages 12-15!
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
On May 10th the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially extended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer vaccine to ages 12-15. ❓WHEN can my 12-15 year-old get their shot? While we’ve heard anecdotes of immediate availability, most providers will wait to book appointments for those ages until after the CDC immunization advisory Read more…
May 11, 2021
Can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If vaccine demand is waning, can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot? A: Lotteries and other incentives could be really effective for promoting vaccine take-up. There are some potential pitfalls, too. Even before there were COVID-19 vaccines, there were pitches and proposals for Read more…
May 10, 2021
Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: I have trouble trusting that the United States is on the downward slope of this pandemic. Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment? Am I being alarmist or am I missing some key data? A: Optimism is healthy … even if it feels challenging right now. Years ago a friend of mine Read more…
May 10, 2021
Are the vaccines effective against new variants?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
May 9, 2021
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
On May 10th the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officially extended its Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer vaccine to ages 12-15. ❓WHEN can my 12-15 year-old get their shot? While we’ve heard anecdotes of immediate availability, most providers will wait to book appointments for those ages until after the CDC immunization advisory Read more…
Can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: If vaccine demand is waning, can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot? A: Lotteries and other incentives could be really effective for promoting vaccine take-up. There are some potential pitfalls, too. Even before there were COVID-19 vaccines, there were pitches and proposals for Read more…
May 10, 2021
Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: I have trouble trusting that the United States is on the downward slope of this pandemic. Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment? Am I being alarmist or am I missing some key data? A: Optimism is healthy … even if it feels challenging right now. Years ago a friend of mine Read more…
May 10, 2021
Are the vaccines effective against new variants?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
May 9, 2021
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
Q: If vaccine demand is waning, can’t we just offer incentives or lotteries to give reluctant folks an extra reason to get their shot? A: Lotteries and other incentives could be really effective for promoting vaccine take-up. There are some potential pitfalls, too. Even before there were COVID-19 vaccines, there were pitches and proposals for Read more…
Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: I have trouble trusting that the United States is on the downward slope of this pandemic. Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment? Am I being alarmist or am I missing some key data? A: Optimism is healthy … even if it feels challenging right now. Years ago a friend of mine Read more…
May 10, 2021
Are the vaccines effective against new variants?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
May 9, 2021
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
Q: I have trouble trusting that the United States is on the downward slope of this pandemic. Is being hopeful and optimistic a recipe for disappointment? Am I being alarmist or am I missing some key data? A: Optimism is healthy … even if it feels challenging right now. Years ago a friend of mine Read more…
Are the vaccines effective against new variants?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
May 9, 2021
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
A: Signs point to YES. While some emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants are more concerning than others, so far the vaccines remain effective at preventing disease and death. 💥 This means that while new “scariants” may make for eye-catching headlines, vaccines are still doing what we hoped to save lives and ultimately drive down transmission. Because of Read more…
Preparing for residual mental health impacts of COVID
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
May 8, 2021
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
Q: Is there a way to start anticipating and preparing for the residual mental health impacts of Covid? I feel as if I will carry a PTSD of sorts. Will I flinch every time I hear about a new virus? Will the rest of my life be spent on high alert waiting for the next Read more…
Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause shingles?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
May 8, 2021
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
A: Nope! The COVID-19 vaccine does not give anyone shingles. Shingles is caused by the virus that causes chickenpox, called varicella zoster. It can hide out in the body long after chickenpox has gone away and reactivate later to cause the rash known as shingles. What is shingles? Shingles, also called zoster or herpes zoster, Read more…
Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
May 7, 2021
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
Q: Do I need the vaccine if I’ve already been infected with COVID-19? Isn’t natural immunity better? A: Vaccines produce STRONGER and MORE CONSISTENT antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 than natural infection, meaning EVERYONE can benefit from the protection. 💥 Don’t give away your shot! Read the full post here Link to original FB post
Can pregnant people receive the COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
May 7, 2021
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
A: YES. The Moderna, Johnson and Johnson, and Pfizer vaccines are available to pregnant people in the US. A growing pool of evidence support vaccine safety for both pregnant people and babies. Many pregnant people have received the mRNA vaccine without evidence of unexpected adverse responses. Recent findings from a study published in the New Read more…
Nerdy Girl Announcements – May 7, 2021
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
May 7, 2021
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
Announcements! I want to let our beloved readers know that Dear Pandemic has some changes on the horizon! We will continue posting on COVID-19 and taking your questions about the pandemic and vaccines. And you can look forward to some gradual expansion in our scope. Over the next weeks and months, we will also start Read more…
What’s up with otters getting COVID-19?
Families/Kids Staying Safe
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
May 6, 2021
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
A: TL; DR. Otters at the Georgia Aquarium recently joined the growing list of animals that test positive for COVID-19. T hey were showing mild symptoms but there is no expectation of long-term effects. While transmission from animals to humans is extremely rare, scientists recommend taking precautions to limit exposures in either direction. What’s up Read more…
Can I shed the vaccine to others?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post
A: NO. We’ve seen this myth going around, and Those Nerdy Girls are here to set the record straight. ➡️It is biologically impossible to experience any effects from being near a vaccinated person. Read more: PolitiFact NY Times Link to original FB post