What’s going on globally with the vaccine rollout?
Data and Metrics Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
A. It’s not good – especially if we’re trying to reach herd immunity by the end of 2021. Getting “back to normal,” or some semblance of normal, even for the U.S., will require widespread uptake of COVID-19 vaccines all around the world. The virus doesn’t adhere to national boundaries, and long-term travels bans to limit Read more…
When can fully vaccinated older adults see family and friends again?
Families/Kids Socializing
A: Full vaccination status (2 doses + 1-2 weeks) provides an additional layer of protection, but is not a silver bullet. Thankfully, existing COVID-19 vaccines drastically reduces the risk of severe infection and death. It’s not clear yet how much the vaccines reduce asymptomatic infection or transmission. Risk mitigation strategies (maintain space, wear masks, outdoor Read more…
What’s the current advice on the COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Overall, there is no evidence that risks of vaccination would outweigh the benefits for pregnant women, but specific guidance varies by country. Why no clear guidance? As with almost all drug/vaccine trials, the current Phase III COVID-19 clinical trials did not include pregnant women (though some participants became pregnant during the Pfizer and Moderna Read more…
Debunking of Dangerous and False Vaccine Rumors
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Thanks to our awesome partner Your local epidemiologist for this science-based debunking of some really dangerous and false vaccine rumors circulating recently. Update: Your local epidemiologist’s post reached a couple million people. The Facebook algorithm has removed it, so we’re just gonna paste the content here. #FactsMatter “COVID19 vaccines will destroy our lives” posted by Read more…
How do we protect ourselves against the new COVID virus variants?
Masks Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: To protect ourselves from COVID-19 (including the new variants), we need to use all our SMARTS! ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered with a mask that fits well. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Restrict: Keep your circle small. ⏰ Time: Keep your interactions Read more…
Help! I’m so confused…which is the best mask?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Check out our mask cheat sheet below, and #MaskUp! Remember the 2 keys to mask effectiveness: 💥FILTRATION and FIT Nerdy Girl mask ranking: 1️⃣ N95 2️⃣ KF94 (Korea), FFP2 (Europe) 3️⃣ KN95s (buyer beware: manufacturer should hold a ‘NIOSH Certificate’) 4️⃣ Double-mask (cloth mask on top of surgical, OR cloth mask with filter insert) Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Amanda Simanek
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce Dr. Amanda Simanek, PhD, MPH! Dr. Simanek is a social epidemiologist who studies the psychosocial determinants of infectious disease, links between infection and chronic disease, and the pathways by which social inequities in health occur across the lifecourse and across generations. We asked her Read more…
Home poop tests anyone?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
A. It’s not good – especially if we’re trying to reach herd immunity by the end of 2021. Getting “back to normal,” or some semblance of normal, even for the U.S., will require widespread uptake of COVID-19 vaccines all around the world. The virus doesn’t adhere to national boundaries, and long-term travels bans to limit Read more…
When can fully vaccinated older adults see family and friends again?
Families/Kids SocializingA: Full vaccination status (2 doses + 1-2 weeks) provides an additional layer of protection, but is not a silver bullet. Thankfully, existing COVID-19 vaccines drastically reduces the risk of severe infection and death. It’s not clear yet how much the vaccines reduce asymptomatic infection or transmission. Risk mitigation strategies (maintain space, wear masks, outdoor Read more…
What’s the current advice on the COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy?
Families/Kids VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Overall, there is no evidence that risks of vaccination would outweigh the benefits for pregnant women, but specific guidance varies by country. Why no clear guidance? As with almost all drug/vaccine trials, the current Phase III COVID-19 clinical trials did not include pregnant women (though some participants became pregnant during the Pfizer and Moderna Read more…
Debunking of Dangerous and False Vaccine Rumors
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Thanks to our awesome partner Your local epidemiologist for this science-based debunking of some really dangerous and false vaccine rumors circulating recently. Update: Your local epidemiologist’s post reached a couple million people. The Facebook algorithm has removed it, so we’re just gonna paste the content here. #FactsMatter “COVID19 vaccines will destroy our lives” posted by Read more…
How do we protect ourselves against the new COVID virus variants?
Masks Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: To protect ourselves from COVID-19 (including the new variants), we need to use all our SMARTS! ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered with a mask that fits well. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Restrict: Keep your circle small. ⏰ Time: Keep your interactions Read more…
Help! I’m so confused…which is the best mask?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Check out our mask cheat sheet below, and #MaskUp! Remember the 2 keys to mask effectiveness: 💥FILTRATION and FIT Nerdy Girl mask ranking: 1️⃣ N95 2️⃣ KF94 (Korea), FFP2 (Europe) 3️⃣ KN95s (buyer beware: manufacturer should hold a ‘NIOSH Certificate’) 4️⃣ Double-mask (cloth mask on top of surgical, OR cloth mask with filter insert) Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Amanda Simanek
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce Dr. Amanda Simanek, PhD, MPH! Dr. Simanek is a social epidemiologist who studies the psychosocial determinants of infectious disease, links between infection and chronic disease, and the pathways by which social inequities in health occur across the lifecourse and across generations. We asked her Read more…
Home poop tests anyone?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
A: Overall, there is no evidence that risks of vaccination would outweigh the benefits for pregnant women, but specific guidance varies by country. Why no clear guidance? As with almost all drug/vaccine trials, the current Phase III COVID-19 clinical trials did not include pregnant women (though some participants became pregnant during the Pfizer and Moderna Read more…
Debunking of Dangerous and False Vaccine Rumors
Uncertainty and Misinformation VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Thanks to our awesome partner Your local epidemiologist for this science-based debunking of some really dangerous and false vaccine rumors circulating recently. Update: Your local epidemiologist’s post reached a couple million people. The Facebook algorithm has removed it, so we’re just gonna paste the content here. #FactsMatter “COVID19 vaccines will destroy our lives” posted by Read more…
How do we protect ourselves against the new COVID virus variants?
Masks Staying Safe
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: To protect ourselves from COVID-19 (including the new variants), we need to use all our SMARTS! ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered with a mask that fits well. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Restrict: Keep your circle small. ⏰ Time: Keep your interactions Read more…
Help! I’m so confused…which is the best mask?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Check out our mask cheat sheet below, and #MaskUp! Remember the 2 keys to mask effectiveness: 💥FILTRATION and FIT Nerdy Girl mask ranking: 1️⃣ N95 2️⃣ KF94 (Korea), FFP2 (Europe) 3️⃣ KN95s (buyer beware: manufacturer should hold a ‘NIOSH Certificate’) 4️⃣ Double-mask (cloth mask on top of surgical, OR cloth mask with filter insert) Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Amanda Simanek
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce Dr. Amanda Simanek, PhD, MPH! Dr. Simanek is a social epidemiologist who studies the psychosocial determinants of infectious disease, links between infection and chronic disease, and the pathways by which social inequities in health occur across the lifecourse and across generations. We asked her Read more…
Home poop tests anyone?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
Thanks to our awesome partner Your local epidemiologist for this science-based debunking of some really dangerous and false vaccine rumors circulating recently. Update: Your local epidemiologist’s post reached a couple million people. The Facebook algorithm has removed it, so we’re just gonna paste the content here. #FactsMatter “COVID19 vaccines will destroy our lives” posted by Read more…
How do we protect ourselves against the new COVID virus variants?
Masks Staying SafeMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: To protect ourselves from COVID-19 (including the new variants), we need to use all our SMARTS! ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered with a mask that fits well. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Restrict: Keep your circle small. ⏰ Time: Keep your interactions Read more…
Help! I’m so confused…which is the best mask?
Masks
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Check out our mask cheat sheet below, and #MaskUp! Remember the 2 keys to mask effectiveness: 💥FILTRATION and FIT Nerdy Girl mask ranking: 1️⃣ N95 2️⃣ KF94 (Korea), FFP2 (Europe) 3️⃣ KN95s (buyer beware: manufacturer should hold a ‘NIOSH Certificate’) 4️⃣ Double-mask (cloth mask on top of surgical, OR cloth mask with filter insert) Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Amanda Simanek
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce Dr. Amanda Simanek, PhD, MPH! Dr. Simanek is a social epidemiologist who studies the psychosocial determinants of infectious disease, links between infection and chronic disease, and the pathways by which social inequities in health occur across the lifecourse and across generations. We asked her Read more…
Home poop tests anyone?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
A: To protect ourselves from COVID-19 (including the new variants), we need to use all our SMARTS! ↔️ Space: Keep your distance from other people. 😷 Masks: Keep your nose + mouth covered with a mask that fits well. 💨 Air: Keep it fresh. 🔄 Restrict: Keep your circle small. ⏰ Time: Keep your interactions Read more…
Help! I’m so confused…which is the best mask?
MasksJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Check out our mask cheat sheet below, and #MaskUp! Remember the 2 keys to mask effectiveness: 💥FILTRATION and FIT Nerdy Girl mask ranking: 1️⃣ N95 2️⃣ KF94 (Korea), FFP2 (Europe) 3️⃣ KN95s (buyer beware: manufacturer should hold a ‘NIOSH Certificate’) 4️⃣ Double-mask (cloth mask on top of surgical, OR cloth mask with filter insert) Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Amanda Simanek
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce Dr. Amanda Simanek, PhD, MPH! Dr. Simanek is a social epidemiologist who studies the psychosocial determinants of infectious disease, links between infection and chronic disease, and the pathways by which social inequities in health occur across the lifecourse and across generations. We asked her Read more…
Home poop tests anyone?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
A: Check out our mask cheat sheet below, and #MaskUp! Remember the 2 keys to mask effectiveness: 💥FILTRATION and FIT Nerdy Girl mask ranking: 1️⃣ N95 2️⃣ KF94 (Korea), FFP2 (Europe) 3️⃣ KN95s (buyer beware: manufacturer should hold a ‘NIOSH Certificate’) 4️⃣ Double-mask (cloth mask on top of surgical, OR cloth mask with filter insert) Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Amanda Simanek
UncategorizedMalia Jones, PhD MPH
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce Dr. Amanda Simanek, PhD, MPH! Dr. Simanek is a social epidemiologist who studies the psychosocial determinants of infectious disease, links between infection and chronic disease, and the pathways by which social inequities in health occur across the lifecourse and across generations. We asked her Read more…
Home poop tests anyone?
Testing and Contact Tracing
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
This week in Meet the Nerdy Girls, we’re delighted to introduce Dr. Amanda Simanek, PhD, MPH! Dr. Simanek is a social epidemiologist who studies the psychosocial determinants of infectious disease, links between infection and chronic disease, and the pathways by which social inequities in health occur across the lifecourse and across generations. We asked her Read more…
Home poop tests anyone?
Testing and Contact TracingLauren Hale, PhD MA
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
Q: I’ve heard that some colleges are testing wastewater from dorms to find out if there is Covid. Does this mean there could be accurate(ish) home fecal tests in our future? I can’t decide if I want the answer to be yes or no. A. The Nerdy Girls support innovation, accuracy, affordability, and accessibility. And Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Masks Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Michelle Kinder will be tackling questions from our readers about the different kinds of vaccines, vaccine side effects, and questions about masks! If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org. ➡️ Welcome, Intros, and Announcements (0:00-2:10) ➡️ Explainer Read more…
Update on Novavax and Johnson & Johnson Vaccines
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
BREAKING NEWS: It’s been an eventful last 24 hours with release of Phase III trial results from both Novavax & Johnson & Johnson! TL;DR: We have two more vaccines with very good (but not perfect) protection against symptomatic disease, but *very* good protection against severe disease. The J&J one dose regimen along with regular temperature Read more…
Is this pandemic worse for extroverts than for introverts?
Mental HealthChristine Whelan, PhD
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
Q: And what can each personality type do to stay mentally healthy right now? A: The emotional toll of the pandemic has been tough on both extroverts and introverts. Research tells us taking a growth-mindset approach to personality is the healthiest way to stay flexible, and that communication about your socio-emotional needs is more important Read more…
Will the current vaccines be effective against the new variants?
VaccinesMichelle Kinder, PhD
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
Q: If not, what happens, do we need a new, different vaccine?” A: The vaccines developed thus far will likely have efficacy against the different SARS-CoV-2 variants although the level of efficacy may be reduced to the South Africian variant (B.1.351). More clinical data will be needed to understand the levels of protection against new Read more…
Does the COVID19 vaccine cause anaphylaxis?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and Misinformation
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
A: Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that is very rare after the COVID19 vaccine. People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a prior dose of the mRNA COVID19 vaccine should not get the second dose. If someone has had anaphylaxis to something else, they can still get the shot. Most people do Read more…
I have been managing as well as can be expected during this pandemic, but lately I have been feeling angry.
Mental Health Uncertainty and MisinformationAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying Safe
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
Q: A lot of it has to do with other people not taking COVID-19 as seriously as me. What can I do? A: Feel all the feels, engage in meaningful interactions, and focus on you. 😤 FEEL ALL THE FEELS: Remember the movie Inside Out? Joy, sadness, anger, grief, and disgust all have a role Read more…
Should I double mask?!
Masks Staying SafeJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
A: Signs point to yes. 🎱 TL;DR: In situations where you can’t avoid crowded indoor spaces such as shopping or traveling, double masking with a tighter fitting cloth mask over a medical mask can provide extra protection. We’ve all heard by now that the new B117 variant may be more transmissible, possibly via its ability Read more…
