Another Front in the War on Terra

Dear Leader apparently gave a stock speech today of the usual fear mongering sort. It was both a prelude for the later announcement (once again) that the Terra'ists are gonna hit New York and a follow-up of the announcement that a lot of folks just might die of the H5N1 flu this year.

Riggsveda does a factual and thorough job discussing what the bird flu is and what it all means.

The Good News: there is a Vaccine.

The Bad News: the Rabble may not get it, since the Federal government is having trouble with the contractors producing even its’ routine vaccine [thanks, Quiddity ].

You can count on Dear Leader, Jenna, and Babs getting the Vaccine, certainly.

Notice Bu$hCo is already trying to get power to “Quarantine” an infected area.

The Cheneyburton never heard of Terra it couldn't exploit for its own agenda.

Obviosuly you can't fight a virus with a gun, but you can count on these people to try it.

If you're one of the Rabble, consider that there are several good things you can do:

1) Get a flu shot if they become available. Even if the most dangerous H5N1 strain isn't covered by the shot, and you do contract it, it will keep you from contracting the other (currently) more common strains. And that might just save your life.

2) Take regular vitamin supplements, particularly those rich in vitamins C, E, and flavonoids, which can keep you healthy and repairing damage the virus and your rattled immune system might do to you.

3) Pay attention to what the doctors say. Wash your hands. Stay active all winter outside as much as you can. Watch who you kiss, what you kiss, and when you kiss it.

4) Consider antivirals. If you can afford them. Keep enough anti-inflammatories and fruit juice or an electrolyte supplement on hand in case you're sick and can't get out of the house for a couple of weeks. Enough for you AND your family. Keep a stock of aspirin- I remember meeting old timers who swore that aspirin was what kept them alive in the pandemic of 1918.

5) Consider flavonoid supplements (like quercetin). These can be toxic if overdone, but may be effective in blocking oxidative damage in acute inflammation. Since much of the damage in influenza is due to your body's own over-reaction, these may have a therapeutic basis. These compounds are also found in green tea.

6) Don't let yourself be talked into moving into the Superdome for shelter this winter if they turn off your heat.

You're really better off roughing it on your own.