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…
January 28, 2021
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…
January 28, 2021
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…
January 27, 2021
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…
January 27, 2021
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…
January 26, 2021
It took me — no joke! — 9 hours and 3 different websites to schedule a vaccine appointment for my 82-year-old mom.
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why is it like this? And what are older adults supposed to do if they don’t have someone to help them? A: We know it feels like Hunger Games, Senior Edition in many places right now. Many states and counties are still figuring out vaccine scheduling and delivery systems. It will get better, but Read more…
January 26, 2021
What should I make of the stories of someone dying shortly after getting vaccinated? Or the 23 deaths in nursing homes in Norway?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
January 25, 2021
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial Justice
Q: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
January 25, 2021
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood 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?
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…
January 28, 2021
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…
January 27, 2021
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…
January 27, 2021
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…
January 26, 2021
It took me — no joke! — 9 hours and 3 different websites to schedule a vaccine appointment for my 82-year-old mom.
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why is it like this? And what are older adults supposed to do if they don’t have someone to help them? A: We know it feels like Hunger Games, Senior Edition in many places right now. Many states and counties are still figuring out vaccine scheduling and delivery systems. It will get better, but Read more…
January 26, 2021
What should I make of the stories of someone dying shortly after getting vaccinated? Or the 23 deaths in nursing homes in Norway?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
January 25, 2021
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial Justice
Q: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
January 25, 2021
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood 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?
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…
January 27, 2021
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…
January 27, 2021
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…
January 26, 2021
It took me — no joke! — 9 hours and 3 different websites to schedule a vaccine appointment for my 82-year-old mom.
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why is it like this? And what are older adults supposed to do if they don’t have someone to help them? A: We know it feels like Hunger Games, Senior Edition in many places right now. Many states and counties are still figuring out vaccine scheduling and delivery systems. It will get better, but Read more…
January 26, 2021
What should I make of the stories of someone dying shortly after getting vaccinated? Or the 23 deaths in nursing homes in Norway?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
January 25, 2021
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial Justice
Q: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
January 25, 2021
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood 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 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…
January 27, 2021
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…
January 26, 2021
It took me — no joke! — 9 hours and 3 different websites to schedule a vaccine appointment for my 82-year-old mom.
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why is it like this? And what are older adults supposed to do if they don’t have someone to help them? A: We know it feels like Hunger Games, Senior Edition in many places right now. Many states and counties are still figuring out vaccine scheduling and delivery systems. It will get better, but Read more…
January 26, 2021
What should I make of the stories of someone dying shortly after getting vaccinated? Or the 23 deaths in nursing homes in Norway?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
January 25, 2021
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial Justice
Q: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
January 25, 2021
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood 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 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…
January 26, 2021
It took me — no joke! — 9 hours and 3 different websites to schedule a vaccine appointment for my 82-year-old mom.
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why is it like this? And what are older adults supposed to do if they don’t have someone to help them? A: We know it feels like Hunger Games, Senior Edition in many places right now. Many states and counties are still figuring out vaccine scheduling and delivery systems. It will get better, but Read more…
January 26, 2021
What should I make of the stories of someone dying shortly after getting vaccinated? Or the 23 deaths in nursing homes in Norway?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
January 25, 2021
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial Justice
Q: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
January 25, 2021
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood 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…
It took me — no joke! — 9 hours and 3 different websites to schedule a vaccine appointment for my 82-year-old mom.
Vaccines
Alison Buttenheim, PhD MBA, Co-founder & Advisor
Q: Why is it like this? And what are older adults supposed to do if they don’t have someone to help them? A: We know it feels like Hunger Games, Senior Edition in many places right now. Many states and counties are still figuring out vaccine scheduling and delivery systems. It will get better, but Read more…
January 26, 2021
What should I make of the stories of someone dying shortly after getting vaccinated? Or the 23 deaths in nursing homes in Norway?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
January 25, 2021
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial Justice
Q: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
January 25, 2021
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…
Q: Why is it like this? And what are older adults supposed to do if they don’t have someone to help them? A: We know it feels like Hunger Games, Senior Edition in many places right now. Many states and counties are still figuring out vaccine scheduling and delivery systems. It will get better, but Read more…
What should I make of the stories of someone dying shortly after getting vaccinated? Or the 23 deaths in nursing homes in Norway?
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
January 25, 2021
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial Justice
Q: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
January 25, 2021
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…
A: Keep calm and remember this Nerdy Girl Mantra—“What is the BASELINE RATE?” Humans look for patterns & meaning in everything from cloud formations, burnt toast, or the socks they are wearing when their favorite team wins. Especially when something exceptionally good or bad happens, we’re quick to ascribe the cause to something that happened Read more…
Trauma and COVID-19
Mental Health Social and Racial JusticeQ: I’ve heard people using language about trauma and COVID-19. Can you explain? I know COVID-19 is bad… but what makes it traumatizing? A: COVID-19 has caused tragic loss for people around the world. What we consider to be a *loss* is very personal, and can be so emotionally intense that it creates traumatic responses. Read more…
What kind of mask should I be wearing in my community?
Masks Staying Safe
Ashley Ritter, APRN, PhD
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
January 24, 2021
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…
A: The most effective masks should meet three criteria: secure, multi-layered, and comfortable. The mask should seal at the bridge of the nose, cheeks, and chin. Masks made from multiple layers of material outperform single layer masks. A comfortable mask is more likely to be worn. KEY MESSAGE: Masks work in decreasing spread of COVID-19. Read more…
Meet Those Nerdy Girls – Dr. Ashley Ritter, PhD, CNRP
Uncategorized
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
January 23, 2021
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…
Dr. Ritter is one of our fantastic team of clinicians here at Dear Pandemic. She’s a geriatric nurse practitioner and health services researcher. In her clinical practice, she helps people with complicated medical and social needs make a personalized plan for continued care. Her research examines better ways to provide care following hospitalization, specifically in Read more…
Dear Pandemic COVID Q&A
Data and Metrics Infection and Spread Masks Vaccines Videos
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
January 23, 2021
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…
In this live Q&A, Dear Pandemic contributing scientists Drs. Malia Jones & Jennifer Beam Dowd will be tackling more pandemic questions from our readers. If you have a question, put it in our question box at www.dearpandemic.org! We are *very* excited to announce that we have live closed captioning and #ASL interpretation available during the Read more…
Is there a timeline for vaccinations for children? Do the “herd immunity” projections include children?
Biology/Immunity Families/Kids Vaccines
Amanda Simanek, PhD MPH
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
January 22, 2021
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…
A: Trials for children 12+ are currently in progress for both the Moderna (ages 12-17; still enrolling!) and Pfizer (ages 12-15; done enrolling!) vaccines with the most optimistic timeline for vaccine approval in kids 12+ by the start of the 2021 school year. Children will need to be vaccinated for us to achieve herd immunity, Read more…
Addressing vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers
Uncertainty and Misinformation Vaccines
Sandra Albrecht, PhD MPH
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…
Today we’d like to showcase an example of a strategy to address vaccine-related misinformation among essential workers. The linked video was made by Dr. Eain Murphy, a Bronx-born virologist, together with the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), the union representing the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). Dr. Murphy was a childhood Read more…