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…
Baby Sleep Day
Families/Kids Mental Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls over at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their family and Read more…
Does the COVID vaccine only last 90 days?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. There is really no reason to think that protection from the vaccines wears off after 90 days. We know the vaccines last longer than 90 days. But we don’t know how long. The CDC recently updated their guidance about quarantining after an exposure and included some changes for people who have been vaccinated. Read more…
When do we expect pediatric vaccines to be available?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, 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…
Baby Sleep Day
Families/Kids Mental Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls over at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their family and Read more…
Does the COVID vaccine only last 90 days?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. There is really no reason to think that protection from the vaccines wears off after 90 days. We know the vaccines last longer than 90 days. But we don’t know how long. The CDC recently updated their guidance about quarantining after an exposure and included some changes for people who have been vaccinated. Read more…
When do we expect pediatric vaccines to be available?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, 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…
Baby Sleep Day
Families/Kids Mental Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls over at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their family and Read more…
Does the COVID vaccine only last 90 days?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. There is really no reason to think that protection from the vaccines wears off after 90 days. We know the vaccines last longer than 90 days. But we don’t know how long. The CDC recently updated their guidance about quarantining after an exposure and included some changes for people who have been vaccinated. Read more…
When do we expect pediatric vaccines to be available?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, 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…
Baby Sleep Day
Families/Kids Mental Health
Lauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls over at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their family and Read more…
Does the COVID vaccine only last 90 days?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. There is really no reason to think that protection from the vaccines wears off after 90 days. We know the vaccines last longer than 90 days. But we don’t know how long. The CDC recently updated their guidance about quarantining after an exposure and included some changes for people who have been vaccinated. Read more…
When do we expect pediatric vaccines to be available?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, 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…
Baby Sleep Day
Families/Kids Mental HealthLauren Hale, PhD MA
The Nerdy Girls over at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their family and Read more…
Does the COVID vaccine only last 90 days?!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. There is really no reason to think that protection from the vaccines wears off after 90 days. We know the vaccines last longer than 90 days. But we don’t know how long. The CDC recently updated their guidance about quarantining after an exposure and included some changes for people who have been vaccinated. Read more…
When do we expect pediatric vaccines to be available?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
The Nerdy Girls over at Dear Pandemic are thrilled to participate in Baby Sleep Day (Visit Pediatric Sleep Council for live Q&A all day or Baby Sleep Day for the schedule of experts). Healthy sleep during a pandemic can be tough – especially for parents who spend a lot of energy balancing their family and Read more…
Does the COVID vaccine only last 90 days?!
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: No. There is really no reason to think that protection from the vaccines wears off after 90 days. We know the vaccines last longer than 90 days. But we don’t know how long. The CDC recently updated their guidance about quarantining after an exposure and included some changes for people who have been vaccinated. Read more…
When do we expect pediatric vaccines to be available?
Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
A: No. There is really no reason to think that protection from the vaccines wears off after 90 days. We know the vaccines last longer than 90 days. But we don’t know how long. The CDC recently updated their guidance about quarantining after an exposure and included some changes for people who have been vaccinated. Read more…
When do we expect pediatric vaccines to be available?
Families/Kids VaccinesAmanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
A: Best case estimate for availability of vaccines is still Fall 2021 for older kids (aged 12+ years) and late 2021 to early 2022 for younger kids (aged < 12 years). So far Pfizer and Moderna have started trials in kids (Pfizer trial including kids aged 12-15 years was fully enrolled in January and the Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Staying Safe Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines VideosMalia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity Vaccines
Michelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
In this live Q&A, we’re teaming up with our science gal-pals at @Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist and @Your Local Epidemiologist for a special retrospective on science on Facebook over this past year. We’ll be talking about why we started doing this and why we keep on doing it, how it’s changed us, and laughing about some Read more…
What is the difference between antibodies from vaccination and antibodies from having had COVID-19?
Biology/Immunity VaccinesMichelle Kinder, PhD
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental Health
Aparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
Q: Is there a difference between the antibodies you develop from the vaccination and the antibodies you develop from having Covid19? Is there a reason that antibody tests aren’t a good indicator of whether the vaccine was effective for you. A: Antibodies developed from having from COVID-19 recognize different parts of the virus while antibodies Read more…
How do I find a therapist?
Mental HealthAparna Kumar, PhD CRNP MPH
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
Q: I am struggling with my mental health right now. Nothing I have tried has worked. I think I need a therapist. Where do I start? A: We have a few tips to help you get the help you may need. Many of us are going through this right now (up to 40% of Americans Read more…
How should I prepare for my COVID-19 shot?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
A: When it’s finally your turn for the vaccine (yay!), there are a few simple things you can do to help everything go smoothly. Learn about the vaccine, know which arm you want your shot in, wear loose fitting clothing, drink plenty of water, and talk to your primary care clinician about any questions you Read more…
What’s the news on the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental Health
Christine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
A: The news is GOOD!! TL;DR: The single-shot vaccine provides strong protection against COVID-19 severe disease and death, and requires only normal refrigeration. Johnson & Johnson is a “viral vector” vaccine, in which a non-replicating adenovirus (a cause of common cold) is used as a delivery service for instructions to create the coronavirus spike protein. Read more…
Should we be preparing to re-enter society?
Mental HealthChristine Whelan, PhD
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
Q: For otherwise healthy people, what’s safe to do these days? Should we be preparing to re-enter society? And if so, how do we address our serious fears about health safety? A: Safe socialization is important for our well-being and thriving, so when you’re ready, use your SMARTS, assess the risks, name the feelings that Read more…
Any news yet about whether vaccines prevent asymptomatic infection?
Infection and Spread VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and Metrics
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
A: YES! We are getting a steady trail of clues hinting that the vaccines DO IN FACT REDUCE INFECTIONS! This is magnificent news, and badly needed as we pass half a million COVID-19 deaths in the United States and many hundreds of thousands more worldwide. We can celebrate it as a real milestone in the Read more…
500,000 deaths in the US
Data and MetricsAshley Ritter, APRN, PhD
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
Today we take a moment to remember each and every person who died of COVID-19 in the last 11 months — 500,000 deaths in the US as of yesterday. Large numbers are hard to put into context. In our absence of words to capture the trauma and tragedy of this massive societal and personal loss, Read more…
