We’re all doing our best to stay safe from coronavirus, but is there anything we can do for others as well? In this episode we look at some ways you can help from home, like by making masks, donating to food banks or writing letters. Two stars of the World Handwashing Federation stop by to explain the science of how water actually dries out our hands. Plus, Kara and Gilly interview science journalist Carl Zimmer on the weird world of viruses, including some viruses that help people!

There’s a listener-submitted mystery sound and this week’s Moment of Um tackles the question: how do seashells get their shape?

This episode is sponsored by Betty Crocker bettycrocker.com and Care.com promo code: BRAINS

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.