Why vaccine doses differ for babies, kids, teens and adults – an immunologist explains how your immune system changes as you mature

First CDC signed off on a COVID-19 vaccine for adults, then teens. Now US children ages 5 to 11 are officially eligible for shots. Here’s the science on why each group needs to be considered separately.

Brian Peppers, Assistant Professor of Pediatric and Adult Allergy/Immunology, West Virginia University • conversation
Nov. 3, 2021 ~7 min

The FDA authorizes Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 – a pediatrician explains how the drug was tested for safety and efficacy

Pediatric clinical trials for the COVID-19 Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 have shown that the Pfizer shot is safe and effective.

Debbie-Ann Shirley, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Virginia • conversation
Oct. 29, 2021 ~10 min


Breast milk can contain COVID antibodies – good news for babies

There is immense interest in understanding whether potentially protective SARS-CoV-2 antibodies are provided to the baby via breast milk. This is what we know so far.

April Rees, PhD Researcher in Immunology, Swansea University • conversation
Oct. 15, 2021 ~8 min

Vaccination against COVID-19 supports a healthy pregnancy by protecting both mother and child – an immunologist explains the maternal immune response

In light of mounting research showing the serious risks of contracting COVID-19 during pregnancy, the CDC is re-upping its urgency that pregnant women get their shots.

Matthew Woodruff, Instructor of Human Immunology, Emory University • conversation
Oct. 13, 2021 ~9 min

New Johnson & Johnson data shows second shot boosts antibodies and protection against COVID-19 – but one dose is still strong against delta variant

Your body produces antibodies after an infection or vaccine, but these slowly decline over time. New Johnson & Johnson data sheds light on the duration of protection and the need for booster shots.

Maureen Ferran, Associate Professor of Biology, Rochester Institute of Technology • conversation
Sept. 25, 2021 ~8 min

Do I need a booster shot if I got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine? A virologist answers 5 questions

It has been six months since the Johnson & Johnson vaccine received emergency use authorization. What does six months of data show about its efficacy, side effects and protection from variants?

Maureen Ferran, Associate Professor of Biology, Rochester Institute of Technology • conversation
Aug. 27, 2021 ~8 min

Pregnant or worried about infertility? Get vaccinated against COVID-19

A COVID-19 vaccine does not cause infertility – but it can protect you from the dangerous complications of contracting the virus.

Matthew Woodruff, Instructor of Human Immunology, Emory University • conversation
Aug. 25, 2021 ~9 min

Kids aren't just littler adults – here's why they need their own clinical trials for a COVID-19 vaccine

As many teens and adults in the US restart their social lives, parents of children under the age of 12 wonder when their kids will also be able to experience the freedom that comes with vaccination.

Judy Martin, Professor of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh • conversation
July 16, 2021 ~10 min


COVID-19: kids are using soft drinks to fake positive tests – I've worked out the science and how to spot it

There's a way for parents to spot the fraud.

Mark Lorch, Professor of Science Communication and Chemistry, University of Hull • conversation
July 2, 2021 ~7 min

Why you should get a COVID-19 vaccine – even if you've already had the coronavirus

If you've already had the coronavirus and recovered, you might be tempted to give the vaccine a pass. A scientist explains why the shot offers the best protection against future infection.

Jennifer T. Grier, Clinical Assistant Professor of Immunology,, University of South Carolina • conversation
March 25, 2021 ~7 min

/

6