What is the real COVID-19 death toll? Are we over-counting deaths?
Data and Metrics Data Literacy
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Sadly, we are most likely UNDER-COUNTING Covid-19 deaths. Among the most persistent COVID-19 myths is the idea that COVID-19 deaths are being over-counted, including stories of victims of motorcycle accidents getting tested in the hospital so they can be counted as COVID-19 deaths, or the infamous line that people are dying *with* COVID-19 rather Read more…
My thoughts seem to be on a treadmill, and I can’t get off. Especially at night. What can I do?
Mental Health
Verdena Jennings, DO
A: No matter how safe you make yourself against the virus, you may still have deep concerns that keep you awake at night. Cyclical thinking like this is called rumination. To fight it, try keeping a “done” list, meditation, writing, or movement. Chronic illness, a bill, or a family situation that needs your full attention Read more…
New CDC Guidelines on Fully Vaccinated People
Socializing Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
*** Edited to clarify that children who have not been vaccinated are considered unvaccinated people under this guidance.*** It’s Good News Tues! Yesterday, the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidelines stating that 👏🏼 fully 👏🏼vaccinated 👏🏼 people can safely: 🌟 Visit other vaccinated people indoors–without wearing masks or physically Read more…
What exactly is in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (and, what isn’t)?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The active ingredient in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (also called the J&J vaccine) is a genetically modified version of a virus that normally causes the common cold. The vaccine also contains two ingredients to balance its pH, ethanol, two ingredients that keep it from getting clumpy, salt, and water. It does NOT Read more…
Are we setting ourselves up for a worsening of common illnesses by isolating our immune systems this year?
Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Celebrate the mild flu season and take what we have learned this year to inform future behavior. Harmful germs are not going away. Illness from bacteria and viruses that make us sick do not “strengthen” the immune system and contribute to significant complications and death. Preserve your immune system by maintaining exposure to good Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sarah Coles
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce our readers to Dr. Sarah Coles, MD. Dr. Coles is a board-certified family physician practicing in both hospital and outpatient settings in Phoenix, Arizona. She sees patients in every stage of life, for any concern. She came to Dear Pandemic’s team as a 1-month Read more…
If I have the opportunity to get the vaccine but it’s not my turn, should I take it?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: Sadly, we are most likely UNDER-COUNTING Covid-19 deaths. Among the most persistent COVID-19 myths is the idea that COVID-19 deaths are being over-counted, including stories of victims of motorcycle accidents getting tested in the hospital so they can be counted as COVID-19 deaths, or the infamous line that people are dying *with* COVID-19 rather Read more…
My thoughts seem to be on a treadmill, and I can’t get off. Especially at night. What can I do?
Mental HealthVerdena Jennings, DO
A: No matter how safe you make yourself against the virus, you may still have deep concerns that keep you awake at night. Cyclical thinking like this is called rumination. To fight it, try keeping a “done” list, meditation, writing, or movement. Chronic illness, a bill, or a family situation that needs your full attention Read more…
New CDC Guidelines on Fully Vaccinated People
Socializing Staying Safe Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
*** Edited to clarify that children who have not been vaccinated are considered unvaccinated people under this guidance.*** It’s Good News Tues! Yesterday, the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidelines stating that 👏🏼 fully 👏🏼vaccinated 👏🏼 people can safely: 🌟 Visit other vaccinated people indoors–without wearing masks or physically Read more…
What exactly is in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (and, what isn’t)?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The active ingredient in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (also called the J&J vaccine) is a genetically modified version of a virus that normally causes the common cold. The vaccine also contains two ingredients to balance its pH, ethanol, two ingredients that keep it from getting clumpy, salt, and water. It does NOT Read more…
Are we setting ourselves up for a worsening of common illnesses by isolating our immune systems this year?
Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Celebrate the mild flu season and take what we have learned this year to inform future behavior. Harmful germs are not going away. Illness from bacteria and viruses that make us sick do not “strengthen” the immune system and contribute to significant complications and death. Preserve your immune system by maintaining exposure to good Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sarah Coles
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce our readers to Dr. Sarah Coles, MD. Dr. Coles is a board-certified family physician practicing in both hospital and outpatient settings in Phoenix, Arizona. She sees patients in every stage of life, for any concern. She came to Dear Pandemic’s team as a 1-month Read more…
If I have the opportunity to get the vaccine but it’s not my turn, should I take it?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: No matter how safe you make yourself against the virus, you may still have deep concerns that keep you awake at night. Cyclical thinking like this is called rumination. To fight it, try keeping a “done” list, meditation, writing, or movement. Chronic illness, a bill, or a family situation that needs your full attention Read more…
New CDC Guidelines on Fully Vaccinated People
Socializing Staying Safe VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
*** Edited to clarify that children who have not been vaccinated are considered unvaccinated people under this guidance.*** It’s Good News Tues! Yesterday, the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidelines stating that 👏🏼 fully 👏🏼vaccinated 👏🏼 people can safely: 🌟 Visit other vaccinated people indoors–without wearing masks or physically Read more…
What exactly is in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (and, what isn’t)?
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The active ingredient in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (also called the J&J vaccine) is a genetically modified version of a virus that normally causes the common cold. The vaccine also contains two ingredients to balance its pH, ethanol, two ingredients that keep it from getting clumpy, salt, and water. It does NOT Read more…
Are we setting ourselves up for a worsening of common illnesses by isolating our immune systems this year?
Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Celebrate the mild flu season and take what we have learned this year to inform future behavior. Harmful germs are not going away. Illness from bacteria and viruses that make us sick do not “strengthen” the immune system and contribute to significant complications and death. Preserve your immune system by maintaining exposure to good Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sarah Coles
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce our readers to Dr. Sarah Coles, MD. Dr. Coles is a board-certified family physician practicing in both hospital and outpatient settings in Phoenix, Arizona. She sees patients in every stage of life, for any concern. She came to Dear Pandemic’s team as a 1-month Read more…
If I have the opportunity to get the vaccine but it’s not my turn, should I take it?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
*** Edited to clarify that children who have not been vaccinated are considered unvaccinated people under this guidance.*** It’s Good News Tues! Yesterday, the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidelines stating that 👏🏼 fully 👏🏼vaccinated 👏🏼 people can safely: 🌟 Visit other vaccinated people indoors–without wearing masks or physically Read more…
What exactly is in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (and, what isn’t)?
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: The active ingredient in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (also called the J&J vaccine) is a genetically modified version of a virus that normally causes the common cold. The vaccine also contains two ingredients to balance its pH, ethanol, two ingredients that keep it from getting clumpy, salt, and water. It does NOT Read more…
Are we setting ourselves up for a worsening of common illnesses by isolating our immune systems this year?
Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Celebrate the mild flu season and take what we have learned this year to inform future behavior. Harmful germs are not going away. Illness from bacteria and viruses that make us sick do not “strengthen” the immune system and contribute to significant complications and death. Preserve your immune system by maintaining exposure to good Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sarah Coles
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce our readers to Dr. Sarah Coles, MD. Dr. Coles is a board-certified family physician practicing in both hospital and outpatient settings in Phoenix, Arizona. She sees patients in every stage of life, for any concern. She came to Dear Pandemic’s team as a 1-month Read more…
If I have the opportunity to get the vaccine but it’s not my turn, should I take it?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: The active ingredient in the vaccine from Johnson & Johnson-Janssen (also called the J&J vaccine) is a genetically modified version of a virus that normally causes the common cold. The vaccine also contains two ingredients to balance its pH, ethanol, two ingredients that keep it from getting clumpy, salt, and water. It does NOT Read more…
Are we setting ourselves up for a worsening of common illnesses by isolating our immune systems this year?
Staying SafeAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: Celebrate the mild flu season and take what we have learned this year to inform future behavior. Harmful germs are not going away. Illness from bacteria and viruses that make us sick do not “strengthen” the immune system and contribute to significant complications and death. Preserve your immune system by maintaining exposure to good Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sarah Coles
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce our readers to Dr. Sarah Coles, MD. Dr. Coles is a board-certified family physician practicing in both hospital and outpatient settings in Phoenix, Arizona. She sees patients in every stage of life, for any concern. She came to Dear Pandemic’s team as a 1-month Read more…
If I have the opportunity to get the vaccine but it’s not my turn, should I take it?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: Celebrate the mild flu season and take what we have learned this year to inform future behavior. Harmful germs are not going away. Illness from bacteria and viruses that make us sick do not “strengthen” the immune system and contribute to significant complications and death. Preserve your immune system by maintaining exposure to good Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Sarah Coles
UncategorizedMalia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce our readers to Dr. Sarah Coles, MD. Dr. Coles is a board-certified family physician practicing in both hospital and outpatient settings in Phoenix, Arizona. She sees patients in every stage of life, for any concern. She came to Dear Pandemic’s team as a 1-month Read more…
If I have the opportunity to get the vaccine but it’s not my turn, should I take it?
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce our readers to Dr. Sarah Coles, MD. Dr. Coles is a board-certified family physician practicing in both hospital and outpatient settings in Phoenix, Arizona. She sees patients in every stage of life, for any concern. She came to Dear Pandemic’s team as a 1-month Read more…
If I have the opportunity to get the vaccine but it’s not my turn, should I take it?
VaccinesAlison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: This vexing ethical dilemma has a few black and white answers, and a whole lot of gray. tl;dr: Don’t lie about your status. Don’t take a dose clearly intended for others. If doses are truly going to waste and a vaccination provider is looking for arms, it’s ok to take the shot, but you Read more…
Is it safe to get routine medical care at a clinic?
Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: Yes! Yes, yes and yes. Yes!!! Please do not let the pandemic keep you from getting routine screenings and needed medical care! To answer this question, we’re bringing back an updated version of a post from all the way back in JUNE, when this was already true. What’s new at this point? Well, most Read more…
Any new updates regarding the COVID-19 vaccine rollout outside the U.S.?
Data and Metrics VaccinesSandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A. Yes, there are new updates! And while there is reason for optimism, there is still a long, long way to go in many countries. We previously posted about the status of the global vaccine rollout roughly a month ago. Some countries like Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAB) were doing a great job Read more…
How long do I need between my flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccination?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
Q: Serena from Australia asks: “In Australia it’s time for our flu vax. How long do I need between this and COVID-19 vaccination?” A: Ideally, there would be 14 days before or after getting the COVID-19 vaccine and any other vaccine. However, there may be situations where a shorter interval between would be ok. Folks Read more…
Will the vaccines prevent Long Covid?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: Likely! There is good biological reason to think so, but like many things we lack hard data. Many followers have asked this great question in recent weeks. Clinical trials have shown the vaccines are AMAZING at preventing serious disease and death. But what about those mild infections after a vaccine, could they still lead Read more…
In the last year I made some not-so-awesome impulse purchases. Was that just me?
Mental HealthChristine Whelan, PhD
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and Spread
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: Stress spending is real, and in the last year, it went way past buying too much toilet paper. According to one survey, 43% of respondents said they’d made an impulse purchase during the first few months of the pandemic as wine-o-clock internet purchases became an all-day thing for a subset of us. For others, Read more…
What are the rules for family get-togethers with vaccinated adults and unvaccinated kids?
Families/Kids Infection and SpreadAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: We offer a few guiding principles. Severe complications of COVID-19 infection are significantly decreased among the vaccinated but infection risk is not zero. Unvaccinated people remain at risk of infection +/- complications. Determine what is important. Maintain as many risk mitigation strategies as realistic. This is not over yet. ☠️ Vaccination greatly decreases the Read more…
How do we overcome mistrust in the vaccines, especially with Black Americans?
Social and Racial Justice VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: As many as half of Black Americans have expressed reluctance to take the COVID-19 vaccines (1), which some attribute to the enduring legacy of the egregious Tuskegee Syphilis Study. Reticence to take the coronavirus vaccine is complicated. Listening and understanding history is critical. Contrary to many peoples’ understanding of the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, Black Read more…
Can I go back to my indoor fitness classes?
Infection and Spread Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
A: The Nerdy Girls LOVE your efforts to stay fit, but best to hang on to those online or outdoor workouts a bit longer. TL;DR: Heavy breathing, no masks, and indoors is the perfect recipe for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. A recent U.S. CDC report described an outbreak linked to an unnamed fitness facility in Chicago in Read more…
We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
We have GREAT news! We now have a third, safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine. The FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to the Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccine. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met this weekend to review and make recommendations on the this vaccine. Janssen is a pharmaceutical company owned by Read more…
