Ask the Expert

A bluejay on a tree branch with a seed in its beak. Why birds don’t migrate away from chilly weather is more about food than temperature, says a Tufts professor of biology

Why Don’t All Birds Fly South for the Winter?

Deciding to stick around in the chilly weather is more about food than temperature, says a Tufts professor of biology

A patient receives a flu vaccine from a medical professional.

Health

Should I Get a COVID Booster and Flu Shot at the Same Time?

Advice from family medicine physician Tuhin Roy, M17, MG17, associate medical director at Greater Lawrence Family Health Center.

An open white plastic drug bottle with while pills pouring out. Allen Shaughnessy, a Tufts professor of family medicine, explains how acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, works

Health

How Does Acetaminophen Work?

It’s still kind of a mystery exactly how it relieves fever and pain, says Allen Shaughnessy, Pharm.D., a Tufts professor of family medicine

A steaming cup of coffee with coffee beans and burlap bag. A scientist explains how caffeine gives people what feels like a boost of energy.

Food & Nutrition

How Does Caffeine Give Us Energy?

Sai Krupa Das, an energy metabolism researcher, says it blocks specific receptors in the brain that affect functions like sleep

A woman’s open mouth the dental mirror inside. A Tufts dentist explains what gum recession is and how gum grafts work to remedy it.

Oral Health

What is gum recession and how do gum grafts work to remedy it?

Irina F. Dragan, DG15, assistant professor of periodontology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, fills us in

COVID-19

Are face masks helping people with allergies?

John Leung, MD, an assistant professor at Tufts University School of Medicine and an allergist and gastroenterologist at Tufts Medical Center, fills us in

Various types of pet food for sale at a supermarket.

Pets & Wildlife

How do I include my pets in my family’s emergency planning for COVID-19?

Emily McCobb, V00, VG02, director of Cummings School’s Shelter Medicine Program, responds

A person washing hands with soap and water. An expert in hygiene answers a question of whether it’s better to wash with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer.

COVID-19

For washing your hands, is it more effective to use soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer?

Marlene Wolfe, EG19, who received a Ph.D. in civil and environmental engineering and conducted a systematic review of the effectiveness of handwashing practices...