About The Podcast
The Infectious Dose podcast is the rebranded and relaunched Pathogen Perspectives! The science misinformation epidemic has only increased with horrifying consequences like a noted antivaxxer in a position that impacts all Americans. To combat misinformation, this podcast will provide accurate, up-to-date, information with evidence and reputable sources. Hopefully I can make this small corner of science accessible and interesting, and help mitigate the incessant fear mongering. At Infectious Dose, my approach involves in-depth research and a commitment to accuracy and clarity. I want to provide you with reliable information to empower you with knowledge. Despite this, I must emphasize that this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor about your specific risk of infectious diseases and the vaccines that prevent them.
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About The Host
My name is Heather McSharry. I am a PhD virologist-turned-science-writer with a passion for fighting the science misinformation plague that is ravaging our country. The photos are me, 9 months pregnant in a BSL4 lab (visible only on desktop site), and me, not pregnant, but thrilled to be holding my first successful plaque assay with the virulent Junin virus Romero strain.
I began a blog called Pathogen Perspectives in response to the media propaganda regarding the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, in an effort to bridge the dangerous gap between the science of infectious diseases and public misperception. After transitioning Pathogen Perspectives to a podcast format in 2021, life got too complicated and I had to focus on my son. Four years later, with his imminent graduation from high school and the explosion in disinformation regarding infectious diseases and vaccines only getting worse, I decided to relaunch and do what I can to help, or in other words, I just can't keep my mouth shut. Nevertheless, I pride myself on thorough research and reputable sources and will never give you information that isn't backed up by legitimate science. By focusing on accuracy, clarity, and relevance, I aim to make complex scientific information accessible and engaging for you.
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