How long do flu shots last?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
In general, you can count on 6 months of meaningful protection starting two weeks after you get your annual flu vaccine. Protection may wane earlier in older adults. Getting vaccinated in advance of flu season’s start ensures that you have good coverage when the season begins, and in most adults, your protection will stick around Read more…
Why do I need yet another COVID vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Everyone can benefit from a boost in COVID protection before the winter respiratory virus season. Here are just a few reasons why you should roll up your sleeve for the updated COVID shot. COVID isn’t gone. We are in a MUCH better place than we were for the past three winters, thanks to accumulated immunity Read more…
Everyone can benefit from a boost in COVID protection before the winter respiratory virus season.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Here are just a few reasons why you should roll up your sleeve for the updated COVID shot: ➡️COVID isn’t gone. COVID is still routinely killing more than 1000 Americans per week, which is worse than a bad flu season (and we still have the flu on top of this). ➡️An updated COVID shot boosts Read more…
How common are side effects from the flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One in three people have some pain or redness at the injection site following a flu shot. Around one in five has a more systemic reaction, such as fever, headache, or tiredness. This year’s flu vaccines cover four strains of influenza. Most people receive an injectable vaccine, although a nasal mist is also available for people ages 2 Read more…
We hear so many excuses for why people haven’t gotten their flu shot!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
⚠️ “The flu vaccine doesn’t work anyway.” Yes! It does actually! Stop repeating this, it just isn’t true. ⚠️ “I think I already had flu back in August this year.” No, you probably didn’t. There is little to no influenza activity in August. And, you’d know. That runny nose you had for 3 days was Read more…
Do flu vaccines work?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…
Yes, everyone should get the updated Covid vaccine.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
In general, you can count on 6 months of meaningful protection starting two weeks after you get your annual flu vaccine. Protection may wane earlier in older adults. Getting vaccinated in advance of flu season’s start ensures that you have good coverage when the season begins, and in most adults, your protection will stick around Read more…
Why do I need yet another COVID vaccine?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Everyone can benefit from a boost in COVID protection before the winter respiratory virus season. Here are just a few reasons why you should roll up your sleeve for the updated COVID shot. COVID isn’t gone. We are in a MUCH better place than we were for the past three winters, thanks to accumulated immunity Read more…
Everyone can benefit from a boost in COVID protection before the winter respiratory virus season.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Here are just a few reasons why you should roll up your sleeve for the updated COVID shot: ➡️COVID isn’t gone. COVID is still routinely killing more than 1000 Americans per week, which is worse than a bad flu season (and we still have the flu on top of this). ➡️An updated COVID shot boosts Read more…
How common are side effects from the flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One in three people have some pain or redness at the injection site following a flu shot. Around one in five has a more systemic reaction, such as fever, headache, or tiredness. This year’s flu vaccines cover four strains of influenza. Most people receive an injectable vaccine, although a nasal mist is also available for people ages 2 Read more…
We hear so many excuses for why people haven’t gotten their flu shot!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
⚠️ “The flu vaccine doesn’t work anyway.” Yes! It does actually! Stop repeating this, it just isn’t true. ⚠️ “I think I already had flu back in August this year.” No, you probably didn’t. There is little to no influenza activity in August. And, you’d know. That runny nose you had for 3 days was Read more…
Do flu vaccines work?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…
Yes, everyone should get the updated Covid vaccine.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Everyone can benefit from a boost in COVID protection before the winter respiratory virus season. Here are just a few reasons why you should roll up your sleeve for the updated COVID shot. COVID isn’t gone. We are in a MUCH better place than we were for the past three winters, thanks to accumulated immunity Read more…
Everyone can benefit from a boost in COVID protection before the winter respiratory virus season.
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Here are just a few reasons why you should roll up your sleeve for the updated COVID shot: ➡️COVID isn’t gone. COVID is still routinely killing more than 1000 Americans per week, which is worse than a bad flu season (and we still have the flu on top of this). ➡️An updated COVID shot boosts Read more…
How common are side effects from the flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
One in three people have some pain or redness at the injection site following a flu shot. Around one in five has a more systemic reaction, such as fever, headache, or tiredness. This year’s flu vaccines cover four strains of influenza. Most people receive an injectable vaccine, although a nasal mist is also available for people ages 2 Read more…
We hear so many excuses for why people haven’t gotten their flu shot!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
⚠️ “The flu vaccine doesn’t work anyway.” Yes! It does actually! Stop repeating this, it just isn’t true. ⚠️ “I think I already had flu back in August this year.” No, you probably didn’t. There is little to no influenza activity in August. And, you’d know. That runny nose you had for 3 days was Read more…
Do flu vaccines work?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…
Yes, everyone should get the updated Covid vaccine.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Here are just a few reasons why you should roll up your sleeve for the updated COVID shot: ➡️COVID isn’t gone. COVID is still routinely killing more than 1000 Americans per week, which is worse than a bad flu season (and we still have the flu on top of this). ➡️An updated COVID shot boosts Read more…
How common are side effects from the flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
One in three people have some pain or redness at the injection site following a flu shot. Around one in five has a more systemic reaction, such as fever, headache, or tiredness. This year’s flu vaccines cover four strains of influenza. Most people receive an injectable vaccine, although a nasal mist is also available for people ages 2 Read more…
We hear so many excuses for why people haven’t gotten their flu shot!
Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
⚠️ “The flu vaccine doesn’t work anyway.” Yes! It does actually! Stop repeating this, it just isn’t true. ⚠️ “I think I already had flu back in August this year.” No, you probably didn’t. There is little to no influenza activity in August. And, you’d know. That runny nose you had for 3 days was Read more…
Do flu vaccines work?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…
Yes, everyone should get the updated Covid vaccine.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
One in three people have some pain or redness at the injection site following a flu shot. Around one in five has a more systemic reaction, such as fever, headache, or tiredness. This year’s flu vaccines cover four strains of influenza. Most people receive an injectable vaccine, although a nasal mist is also available for people ages 2 Read more…
We hear so many excuses for why people haven’t gotten their flu shot!
VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
⚠️ “The flu vaccine doesn’t work anyway.” Yes! It does actually! Stop repeating this, it just isn’t true. ⚠️ “I think I already had flu back in August this year.” No, you probably didn’t. There is little to no influenza activity in August. And, you’d know. That runny nose you had for 3 days was Read more…
Do flu vaccines work?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…
Yes, everyone should get the updated Covid vaccine.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
⚠️ “The flu vaccine doesn’t work anyway.” Yes! It does actually! Stop repeating this, it just isn’t true. ⚠️ “I think I already had flu back in August this year.” No, you probably didn’t. There is little to no influenza activity in August. And, you’d know. That runny nose you had for 3 days was Read more…
Do flu vaccines work?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…
Yes, everyone should get the updated Covid vaccine.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Yes. Annual flu vaccines prevent hundreds of thousands of cases of flu and save thousands of lives every year. The answer to the question “how well do they work” isn’t black and white because it changes from year to year, and even sometimes within a season. But even in a year when the flu vaccine Read more…
Yes, everyone should get the updated Covid vaccine.
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
For better viewing with links, read this on our Substack. —————————————————————— Last month, the CDC recommended that everyone in the U.S. 6 months and older receive an updated Covid vaccine targeting the XBB.1.5 variant. Since then, some notable voices, including Paul Offit, have publicly questioned whether the updated vaccine is needed for those who are not in a Read more…
I got my flu shot and my new COVID vax at the same time. Here’s why.
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
Vaccines
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
I got my new COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both. This week, I got my latest COVID vax and my flu shot at the same time because it was the easiest way for me to get both done at one Read more…
Can I get the COVID vaccine at the same time as another vaccine?
VaccinesSarah Whitley Coles, MD
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Megan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
A: Sure can! The COVID vaccine can be given with other vaccines. Don’t delay and catch up on those vaccines! On Monday, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Moderna and Pfizer’s monovalent COVID vaccine to target the XBB.1.5 variant. On Tuesday, the CDC recommended if for everyone aged 6 months and over if it Read more…
When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesMegan Madsen, DO
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines Videos
Those Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious Diseases
Chana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
A: Getting a flu vaccination by the end of October is a great way to protect yourself. Although it is available as early as July, getting a vaccine in September or October helps protect you for the part of flu season that typically has the highest rates of infections. ❓🤔 When is flu season? Seasonal Read more…
Nerdy Girls Live 08/24/23
COVID Variants Infectious Diseases Treatments Vaccines VideosThose Nerdy Girls answer your questions about COVID-19 and flu, including boosters, risk, new variant, and nasal sprays. Hosted by: – Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS: TNG Contributing Writer & Family Nurse Practitioner – Chana Davis, PhD: TNG Contributing Writer & Founder of Fueled by Science ➡️ Welcome and Intros (0:00-0:46) ➡️ Is COVID-19 the new Read more…
COVID is not gone.
Infectious DiseasesChana Davis, PhD
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious Diseases
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Those Nerdy Girls wanted to remind everyone that COVID is not gone. In fact, we are in the midst of another surge in many parts of the world right now, notably in the US and some hints of that happening in Canada as well and some parts of Europe. Since cases are on the rise, Read more…
Is COVID the new Flu?
Infectious DiseasesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
A: No. For young babies and anyone over age 18, COVID-19 illness continues to hospitalize people at higher rates than the Flu. Even though COVID-19 has caused over 1 million deaths in the US (almost 7 million globally) and 6 million hospitalizations over the past 3 years, we are in a much better place. U.S. Read more…
Can my family get vaccinated against RSV this fall?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health Vaccines
Andrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Some of you, yes! There are several new tools to protect us from RSV on the horizon. TL;DR: There will be several new options to protect against severe complications from RSV this fall in the US: RSV vaccine for adults 60 and over (2 new options approved) Monoclonal Antibody to prevent RSV in children up Read more…
What’s the latest on the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people?
Infectious Diseases Reproductive Health VaccinesAndrea Harmony, NP-C, PMHS
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and Metrics
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
A: Pfizer’s clinical trial of a new RSV vaccine in pregnancy showed high vaccine efficacy against severe disease in infants. The FDA advisory committee discussed an observed difference in premature births in the placebo vs. vaccine group, but concluded that the difference was likely due to chance rather than from the vaccine itself. TL;DR: The Read more…
How can I keep track of COVID levels in my area now that cases are not being reported?
Data and MetricsJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases Vaccines
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Follow the feces. Wastewater data is one of our best remaining tools for COVID-19 surveillance. With the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency in the US, the US CDC will stop reporting community levels of COVID-19 cases or positivity rates. The accuracy of these numbers has also likely declined over time as people tested Read more…
What do we know about the new RSV vaccine for pregnant people? Is it safe?
Infectious Diseases VaccinesSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious Diseases
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
A: The new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine will be given to pregnant people and passes on RSV immunity to their newborns. RSV is a serious respiratory infection that can cause hospitalization and death in infants. Clinical trials showed a good safety profile. About RSV and recent outbreaks RSV is a common respiratory infection that Read more…
Are COVID re-infections worse than a first infection?
Data and Metrics Infectious DiseasesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
Vaccines
Jennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
No, not for most people. But for vulnerable people, repeated infections can still be dangerous. And each infection carries its own risk of Long Covid. TL;DR: Repeated COVID-19 infections are neither destroying our immune systems NOR completely harmless. Like many things with COVID-19, the truth lies somewhere in between. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is here to Read more…
💥 Finally! Additional doses of bivalent COVID-19 boosters available in US for *some* groups.
VaccinesJennifer Beam Dowd, PhD
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious Diseases
Malia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has amended the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna and Pfizer mRNA vaccines. These changes have now been officially approved by the CDC. An additional dose of bivalent vaccine is now allowed for: ➡️ People aged 65 and over more than 4 months past their last dose. ➡️ Read more…
Is there an avian influenza (aka bird flu or H5N1) vaccine for humans?
Infectious DiseasesMalia Jones, PhD MPH
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
Yes, a vaccine against avian influenza H5N1 for humans *exists,* but it’s not available, as at this point the infection isn’t spreading among humans. Right now there is a large outbreak of an influenza virus in birds known as avian influenza H5N1. Experts agree that there is very little risk to humans. And they also Read more…
