Videography is just a hobby, and like any hobby, sometimes it must be shoved aside to accommodate real life. I'd like to return to it at some point, but I have no idea when that might be.
I haven't changed my view of A/H1N1. It's producing some deaths. But so does seasonal flu.
For a virus against which many people have no resistance, it's relatively mild. But you shouldn't take chances. If you contract it, see a doctor immediately.
Vaccines, by the way, are of dubious use against the flu. It takes so long to get them into production, when they finally reach the market, oftentimes the viruses in circulation have changed, rendering the vaccines ineffective.
It's a profit center for the pharmaceutical industry, though, so you can be sure they will flog their products hard with governments and the media.
I tend to think that anti-virals administered after onset of symptoms is more health care bang for the buck.
Yes Urgelt it is a Puzzel. i think your right. i think this A H1N1 will burn out or come back in Aumtum. however i must ask this. is there a chance that if A/H1N1 goes pandemic is there a chance that it could link on to H5N1? giving H5N1 a chance to make its break. and yes i am still very concerned about H5N1. but this what we are seeing now is a great deminstration on how our Goverments are working.
Any of the human-adapted strains of influenza which is making the rounds could contribute genes to H5N1 and confer transmissibility. The opportunity arises when both diseases coinfect a single host at the same time.
Such a strain of H5N1 might be less deadly; it depends on what genes it picks up.
I think we will not be seeing governments pull out the stops for A/H1N1. I doubt we'll see quarantines, for example. For a transmissible H5N1, they'll be a lot more aggressive. They'll have to be.
And yes Urgelt. i also think A/H1N1 may not be the " BIg One" however it is early days and the spainish fly of 1918 did last 2 years. what if this mutates in mexico or china (when it gets there) into a new veriant or strain. this is what WHO are worried about.
Urgelt, hello again we chated about 5 months ago. i think you should address the people of Youtube on H1N1. i have stock piled food and 25 leters of water and food for one month. which i think if rationed may last 2 months. i am also watching Mexico and what the local goverment is doing there. how they are corden off the city. trainsport is next to be shut down in my view. i think this will be in london in the next 3 days. how bad this can get ..i just dont know.
Urgelt, I've heard that Conutries have begun stockpiling on bottled water and canned foods, I thought you would find this usefull. it seems to be shaping up like the flu of 1918- millions of people wearing masks to protect themselves.. the thougghts of this make me shudder, and even though I am 16, I know many things. please, if you have the time, respond to this.
There is still quite a lot to learn about A/H1N1 swine flu. But the early data suggests to me that it's nothing like the Spanish flu.
Influenza is never completely benign. Every flu season brings some deaths. Perhaps once every 15-25 years, a more serious pandemic emerges that hits a little harder.
The Spanish Flu was something else entirely. By some estimates it left more than 100 million people dead. It could happen again; but I don't think A/H1N1 is it.
I won't wear a mask for this one. If I get flu symptoms, though, I'll see a doctor right away. I won't wait for an appointment.
Why? Because A/H1N1 is vulnerable to anti-viral drugs such as Tamiflu.
If you are treated with an anti-viral drug within 48 hours of onset of symptoms, it should lesson symptoms and speed recovery.
I always have a stockpile of canned goods, batteries and toilet paper in the house. It's common sense to be prepared for disruptions in routine; they can happen.
It most certainly has not been proven that this new H1N1 strain is man-made.
I won't rule out the possibility. The technology exists. But if the goal was to depopulate us, it failed. This new H1N1 strain appears to be about as bad as the Hong Kong flu. Not trivial, but it won't even make a blip in the population numbers.
It's a new strain of the H1N1 influenza virus, displaying genes from human, swine and avian influenza. It's definitely not a benign version of the flu. The Centers for Disease Control believe it is too late to contain it; it's loose in the general population and will make the rounds.
I would assess the threat as about the same as the Hong Kong flu pandemic. This is not going to be "The Big One" to rival the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-1919.
I will urge you to be skeptical of death rate reporting out of Mexico. Let me explain.
A couple of days ago, there had been about a thousand reported cases, and 60 deaths. That sounds like a 6% fatality rate, right?
It probably is not anything like that high. If there were a thousand reported cases, you can be sure thousands more were not reported. Not everyone in Mexico sees a doctor, and of those that do, not every case is accurately attributed to this strain.
What I anticipate is that this flu bug is going to deliver a hard-hitting flu season. A lot of people will get sick. Most will recover just fine.
I have two pieces of advice. One, do NOT take aspirin when you have flu symptoms. That's a good way to commit suicide. Reye's Syndrome, you know.
Two, if your fever climbs to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, go to an emergency room. You won't have time to wait for a regular doctor's appointment. You will need help right away.
I don't think we'll see any official quarantines with this bug. That might change if the death rate proves to be higher than I think it will.
We might see some temporary school closings.
I should also add one more piece of advice. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants may help moderate the immune response responsible for many flu deaths. Stock up on leafy green veggies, carrots, etc. Google "antioxidant food source" for suggestions.
? excuse me here, vaccines are NOT something that is good for you!!
And 1 other point, i have read they have stocks of the vaccine ready but are not sure they can make enough more for everyone, you CANNOT make a vaccine for a virus that has not mutated and been studied for a period of time... plus vaccines contain high amounts of mercury which is NOT good for you in any way shapre or form!! its a poison:
Vaccines are responsible for the eradication of several diseases. They've done some harm, too. It's a mixed bag, not an unalloyed evil.
Most vaccines contain no mercury, and I hope they will rapidly phase mercury out of the few remaining which do. Mercury in vaccines is stupid.
Did you listen to my video? I said that there will not be enough vaccines for everyone, and that those which are available may be of limited or no value, since they will target a pre-mutation strain.
Hows it goin man? Do you think that some of these viruses that threaten our existence were maybe introduced purposely by humans as a means of population control?
And secondly,do you think perhaps the threat of a pandemic is simply a means of scaring us into getting "vaccinated" with chemicals that might harm the body ,perhaps make us infertile and control population growth that way?
Using an engineered flu virus as a means of deliberate depopulation is... well, crazy. I suppose there are crazy people out there. Hopefully none has access to the technology required.
The threat of a pandemic does nothing for vaccine sales, for the very good reason that vaccines can't be developed fast enough to meet a pandemic head-on. It'll be over before the first vaccine finishes human trials.
The term "mass extinction of humans" is a muddied use of terms. "Extinction" means an entire species is wiped out. "Mass extinctions" refers to the extinction of many species at once.
Amazingly, some people are actually eager for the human race to terminate itself. They're cheering it on and justifying it with moral arguments.
To themselves, no doubt they make perfect sense.
To me, they come across as utterly insane. There is nothing they can say to me that I want to hear.
"Wait and see..." Well, we can be doing some things to try to shift the outcome in a favorable direction. We don't have to just wait.
Ending our dependence on fossil fuels would be a good start. The technology is available. All we need is early adopters. Once fossil fuels are out of the way, one very large impetus towards war will be removed.
I worry about water, as well, but I think that as new energy sources come on line, it will be less of a problem.
You can ride a bike. Or electrify a bike and ride that. Or install solar panels. Or invest in a wind farm. Or take a job in one of these industries. Or write articles about these things as a journalist. And plenty more options exist for cutting down our dependency on fossil fuels.
All it requires is for us to decide to take an active, rather than passive, role.
Well doomsday virus eh ,how is it many in the supposed know, reckon its all a hoax, like the swine flu and SARS .....and what glorious vaccines have they got for this flu,mde by who?
Actually, SARS did pose a serious threat. The World Health Organization did a good job containing it.
Nobody "in the know," which is to say, involved directly in the science of epidemiology, reckons Avian Influenza to be a hoax.
There is a limited supply of vaccines. It's doubtful those vaccines will be of much use, since the virus will have to mutate before it can become transmissible between humans, and the vaccines are for an older, nontransmissible strain.
I suppose that's what I've tried to do with this YouTube series, but of course I'm just an amateur, not a medical authority. And not many people will see these videos.
There's really no such thing as an idiotic question. Posing questions is how we learn.
An epidemic occurs when an infectious disease affects many individuals in an area or population at the same time.
A pandemic is an epidemic that becomes very widespread; e.g. multiple geographical regions, or, potentially, the entire world. It's the worst sort of epidemic, in other words, in terms of how many people are affected.
I see passion in your words, The EDF would be very happy to have such a man in there ranks, tho small now we are growing at a rapid rate and want true change, such wisdom you hold would be a great asset to us in our struggle.
Please if your interested contact me and I can guide you to our next meeting.
Seasonal flu shots won't do any good against a pandemic virus, probably.
I say "probably" because there's a remote chance a mutated avian flu virus might snitch a protein coat from a regular flu virus against which you've had a flu shot. If it does that, you might get some benefit from a seasonal vaccine. But that likelihood is low.
It's hard enough to get those shots to work against "tame" flu viruses, because they mutate so rapidly.
What is Urgelt? Not your real name, I guess? Were you an actor? Or radio personality? You seem to have a bit of the old ham in these videos, with the dramatic presentation.
I was never an actor, and I have never worked professionally in broadcast media or film. I'm just a guy who points a camera at his head, like most of the uploaders here.
I honestly think there are much worse dangers facing us every day. But that doesn't mean a pandemic is impossible, and being prepared against disruptions of routine might be helpful in many other situations, too.
When times become troubled, the advantage goes to those who have thought, and planned, and are prepared. Fear, though, is not helpful, as Franklin Roosevelt reminded us years ago.
this is scary. Stuff like this always sound both outrageous and believable. That what makes me worry because even though you won't believe it, it might happen anyway.
Several strains of Avian influenza are remarkably lethal if they manage to infect a human. Viruses evolve rapidly. They do adapt to new hosts in which they are in contact, and the virus is in contact with humans, especially in Asia.
But an influenza threat is manageable.
Staying informed is your best defense - something we can do better today than previous generations.
And don't take aspirin if you contract flu-like symptoms. Contracting Reye's Symdrome is bad.
Educational content and straight-talk doesn't make up a large part of YouTube's video library, but there is some here. More than you can find on broadcast television, where it's an endangered species.
i really appreciate the fact that this man took time out of his life to tell us about Avian Flu. Its a great video. He has a lovely, interesting quite lulling voice. Does anyone think if he shaved his beard, got some contacts and cropped and dyed his hair he could be a dead wringer for RON BURGENDY just because of the way he speaks this video?!? just a thought!
Hi Urgelt, im really stoked to have a reply from you. I have listened to your other programmes and I think you have a real talent. Well Ron Burgendy is a character in a funny movie who reads the news although he is ridiculous but what i was meaning was you narrate quite like him, especially in this series, with much drama and suspense in your voice.
Great stuff i cant wait to hear more. I was wondering what you have to say on the subject of 'folk devils' in todays media dominated society. For instance, are black males made out to be 'folk devils' by the media?
Hey Urgelt, thank you again for the reply. Your answer is vague but i understand about the sweeping generalisation lol, although I was simply using that as a brief example. There are many more folk devils in society (both UK & US). Another example is teenage mothers. I know because I was one myself. Would you do a video? Id love to hear your thoughts in-depth and I might tackle this computer to make a responce if i figure out how to.
The question, "should I talk faster?" is the same as the question, "should I sound just like radio and television broadcasters, who so profoundly shape our expectations?"
Rapid-fire explanations are the rule in advertising-dominated media. Great for sales, which is why they fast-talk. Not so hot for comprehension.
If you want people to think, you have to give them time in which to do it.
I think it unlikely that pre-stocked vaccines will do much good. Influenza is notorious among viruses for avoiding vaccines through changing its protein coating.
But I'm not an expert virologist. Perhaps the people making public health decisions know better?
My point is that the idea is to sell plenty of vaccines regardless of their effectiveness! As long as the share price of big pharma is driven up who cares?
Probably a cynical view. However, just look around now. Bird Flu has mysteriously gone away. I'm sure it will reappear when it suits, to fill our minds with more anxiety.
Oh, Bird Flu is a real threat, all right. Wild strains of influenza have crossed into humans repeatedly and killed tens of millions. Scientists working for WHO, various governments, and universities who are tracking Bird Flu's progress are learning a lot about how it happens.
But I agree, you can't trust information if it's only coming from Big Pharma or its advocates. They have a motive to distort, and regularly do.
A pandemic won't catch you by surprise. You'll hear all about it on the news long before it arrives in your community.
Remember, the odds are thought to be against one getting loose. But if one does, you need not panic, especially if you've thought ahead and know how you will handle your career, schools, and supplies during periods of danger.
its really quite shocking when you look at the evidence about how much pharma are going to charge for their bird flu treatment, tamiflu, that has very major health risks. if you compare it with the results from far cheaper and far safer alternatives that have proven much more effective you realize how much control big pharmaceutical companies have on free speech over health issues.
the best info is at: w\w\w DOT truthmed DOT org, its really quite shocking!
"I don't think vaccines are going to be much of a factor in dealing with an Avian Flu outbreak"
The vaccine is going to be useless, but does already paly an important part in all this, as governments are going to stockpile the vaccine and make vaccination mamdatory in the event of a pandemic, which may be break out "as planned" rather than "by accident". I am far more concerend about thei plans to vaccinate us than the disease itself.
I love your video's as they add a understanding to many serious subjects.
I wonder how you view "Global Warming" as shown by the media etc.
I ask, as today in Britain we had rainfall as never recorded before - so what we are seeing in the rest of the world is true - mm now that should be a sobering thought!
Thank you. Very informing and very well done. Here's the problem...people are arrogant and skeptical. They've gotten enough faux Tornado Warnings from their weatherman to not seek shelter, some people and besides people think we cannot fall, least of all America. Ah, the Romans, the Egyptians, the Greeks...where are they? Where will we be?
Skepticism is generally a good thing, I think. What you're talking about is really "desensitization" - as in, if someone yells "fire" in every theater during every show, eventually nobody will pay attention.
Arrogance is a silly thing, isn't it? Given the scale of the enormous universe, our tiny place in it, and the inexorable march of time, arrogance should have no place in our thinking.
Yes... avian flu has been around a good long while. There are many other diseases lurking in animal reservoirs, too... any of them could develop a virulent animal strain that increases exposure to humans and thus risk of crossing over. It pays for humanity to pay attention to animal diseases.
I admire you Urgelt. You are an inspirational man.
I would like to say what a charismatic man like you can teach a student like me but I do not think my words would be unique, as others have given you numberous compliments.
I'll just tell you that I learn from you in a way that others might not, thank you for that.
worst about pandemic spreading is when people almost feel sick, they go all at the hospital and spreads it around, magazines they read, the seats, they might be feaverish, walking toutching a wall only spreads more. so stay home and risk death or go to the hospital and infect others... i don't go to hostpital unless i can't stand on my own feets... quite ofthen i have been told i had a few hourers to live but i can't imagin death being so... weak? when is the right time to go?
I love the videos you create, Urgelt. They are honest and informative, and you're not afraid to admit the truth of the situation. Since I'm still young, the thought of such an outbreak happening during my lifetime is a scare.
Thank you, Urgelt, for uploading this video, as well as the subsequent follow-ups. I am certainly subscribing to you.
Heh, well. BBC can produce more than I can, and actually, BBC has done quite a lot of very good quality reporting. I don't think I can replace the pre-eminent world network with a YouTube channel that averages less than one short video per week.
But I'm glad you enjoyed my videos, and thank you for your comment.
you've got a real nice voice, and a way of saying this. You're a nice communicator. Besides, you talk about intelectual, important and interesting things. Congratulations =D
Mr. Harvey has been a fixture in the radio business for a long time now. He must have spoken hundreds of millions of words into a mic. It is a high compliment, indeed, thank you.
I found these videos very informative and just what i've been looking for to explain to me, in a way i can interprate, what threat the H5N1 virus poses.
Urgelt, keep up the good work and i damn sure hope you don't retire from Youtube anytime soon
It's kinda funny. I don't fear a pandemic, and would not if it were 100% certain. Infection is avoidable.
Things have changed a lot since 1918. Avian flu can't sneak up on the US. It'll be tracked everywhere it appears - if it does. With a little preparation, avoiding it for most people should be as easy as stepping around an uncovered manhole. It's mainly dangerous if you don't understand the danger or aren't paying attention.
I had the flu when I was 26--and quite healthy beforehand. It knocked me flat for a week. I could easily see how it could kill someone older or less healthy in the first place. Scary stuff!~Moonchime
H5N1, though, is in a completely different category. In 2003, there were 4 human cases, all 4 died. By 2006, the total had risen to 261 cases and 157 deaths. If H5N1 hangs on to that level of lethality and gains human to human transmissibility - big ifs - it will be a *lot* more dangerous than conventional flu.
There will be another pandemic. It may or may not be the H51N strain. But it will happen. The world is very connected. Due to modern technology, a person can travel to the other side of our planet in less then a day. That is much faster then in the early 1900's. Several weeks faster. Another excellent video. 5 stars. I must now check out part 2.
The experts agree with you, SDG. But I think it might not happen exactly as the 1918-1919 Spanish Flu pandemic happened. The potential for rapid dissemination is there... but we can also rapidly disseminate information. An awful lot of deaths happened during the Spanish Flu pandemic because people weren't informed and didn't know what to do.
Very informative as always good Sir. The Spanish flu came when the world was locked in global conflict, and once again we could be facing both prospects at once as well.
the first flu vaccine was not manufactured until 1945. The spanish flu epidemic was much earlier, 1918. People died from that epidemic mostly from secondary pneumococcal infection. there were alot of other factors contributing to the spread, like the war, new faster, transportation like airplanes and airships, close unsanitary conditions created by the war, etc etc.
1. It's an estimate. It may be wrong. Nobody really knows how many in flocks have died. 2. It can be transmitted in eggs, slaughtered bird flesh, water where they have pooped, even touching infected birds. 3. Your "nil" assessment is in complete disagreement with World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control experts.
Informative and yet leaves most of us feeling--in a sense-- helpless in the face of a pandemic. As an individual in a very large city, I automatically think about stocking up, the next thought is that if such a thing did occur... leaving for the country.
A very informative video, as always! In Germany we have had our very own birdie flu hysteria about a year ago...well. I had a flu these days, nearly no voice, so i wont be able to do a vid. All the best, Urgelt! :)
Gee..5% of the world, thats pretty scary if it were that high.
A pandemic of this flu wouldn't surprise me and neither would a global depression. Obviously that would be a horrible nightmare, but this world wasn't meant to last forever. But that's my opinion.
U did a Great job on this and heaps of research by the sounds of it. This is stuff people need to take notice of, istead of ignoring it and thinking it couldn't ever happen to them.
A worst-case pandemic would be rough, but it won't destroy humanity or the world, happily. Like the Spanish Flu, afterward the survivors will bury the dead and carry on.
When it comes right down to it, humanity is pretty resilient.
3) It's obvious that we cannot control our population growth, so then possibly nature will do it for us? I'm not attaching any morality to this question, whether it's right or wrong to let nature take its course, just observing how it works for the rest of the animal kingdom. Now morally, is it "wrong" to let mother-nature have its way with us? Is it beneficial or detrimental to our species, in the long-term view, to have our population controlled by nature, if we cannot do it ourselves?
Hmm. I think you failed to disentangle morality from your question, despite intending to.
If we pose it as a strictly scientific question, "are we still subject to natural forces operating to limit and cull our population," you can get an unambiguous answer. Yes.
"Is that good?" That question could be mined for a thousand PhD theses - in philosophy, not science.
2) Now, following this, an evolutionary/ecological question comes to mind. Man has no natural enemies, worthy of our fear or out of our control, except himself and natural catastrophes such as disease. This is unlike all other species of animals on the planet, that all have natural enemies in which to keep their populations in check. Then, based on that fact, can we not ask that disease on a pandemic scale is nature's way of reducing & controlling our exponentially-increasing population?
Leaving aside the moral/ethical dimension for the moment, I would say the answer is yes.
Man is still part of an ecosphere, a fragile little life-support bubble in a big hostile universe. We share that bubble with disease organisms and don't fully control them (yet). We're also vulnerable to perterbations from outside the bubble.
"is disease on a pandemic scale nature's way of reducing & controlling our exponentially-increasing population?"
It's may be, but is more likely to be the psychopathic crime syndicate that's running the world's way of reducing populations down to more manageable levels.
1) I was thinking of Michael Crichton's book "The Andromeda Strain" while you were speaking of the possible Avian-flu pandemic -- except that this potential strain is terrestrial, not extra-terrestrial. If we are unable to get the policy-makers in our current Government to protect us from the onslaught of mere hurricanes, then can we really move them to "protect" us against possible catastrophic pandemics? I'm laughing almost hysterically while I envision my own answer to my own question.
Very gripping video Urgelt, you really have a gift for captivating and articulating your point. Thank you for sharing this, it is very important information that needs to be in the public consciousness.
Is there anything we can do to prepare individually? Furthermore, what can over governments do to protect us that they are not currently doing?
There certainly are things you can do, and I'll talk about that (and more important, pass on some great links) in Part III.
As for governments: Well, WHO and national governments are cooperating and treating each new H5N1 case as an emergency. That's exactly right. I'm not sure they have done enough about education, though, nor planning emergency operations in the event a pandemic hits. Really, you should be hearing this from governments, not me.
The WHO and governments are all corrupt and evil as far as I am concerned. If there is any danger from a bird flu pandemic at all, it is likely to come from them. Keep away from all vaccines and flu drugs.
I work in IT at a health care facility and there was a meeting about Pandemic Flu earlier this week. I was interested in watching it, but unfortunately I didn't get to do so. I doubt that was the last meeting about it, though. Thank you, Urgelt!
Videography is just a hobby, and like any hobby, sometimes it must be shoved aside to accommodate real life. I'd like to return to it at some point, but I have no idea when that might be.
I haven't changed my view of A/H1N1. It's producing some deaths. But so does seasonal flu.
For a virus against which many people have no resistance, it's relatively mild. But you shouldn't take chances. If you contract it, see a doctor immediately.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Vaccines, by the way, are of dubious use against the flu. It takes so long to get them into production, when they finally reach the market, oftentimes the viruses in circulation have changed, rendering the vaccines ineffective.
It's a profit center for the pharmaceutical industry, though, so you can be sure they will flog their products hard with governments and the media.
I tend to think that anti-virals administered after onset of symptoms is more health care bang for the buck.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Yes Urgelt it is a Puzzel. i think your right. i think this A H1N1 will burn out or come back in Aumtum. however i must ask this. is there a chance that if A/H1N1 goes pandemic is there a chance that it could link on to H5N1? giving H5N1 a chance to make its break. and yes i am still very concerned about H5N1. but this what we are seeing now is a great deminstration on how our Goverments are working.
vigilant006 2 years ago
Any of the human-adapted strains of influenza which is making the rounds could contribute genes to H5N1 and confer transmissibility. The opportunity arises when both diseases coinfect a single host at the same time.
Such a strain of H5N1 might be less deadly; it depends on what genes it picks up.
I think we will not be seeing governments pull out the stops for A/H1N1. I doubt we'll see quarantines, for example. For a transmissible H5N1, they'll be a lot more aggressive. They'll have to be.
Urgelt 2 years ago
And yes Urgelt. i also think A/H1N1 may not be the " BIg One" however it is early days and the spainish fly of 1918 did last 2 years. what if this mutates in mexico or china (when it gets there) into a new veriant or strain. this is what WHO are worried about.
vigilant006 2 years ago
I'm saving my biggest concern for H5N1. That virus isn't dangerous to us yet, but the potential threat is much, much greater.
But of course you're right, viruses mutate, and a threat to humanity can come from any direction.
Right now, the big challenge for WHO is to explain why A/H1N1 seems to be mild in the US and Canada, but in Mexico it's taking lives. It's a puzzle.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Urgelt, hello again we chated about 5 months ago. i think you should address the people of Youtube on H1N1. i have stock piled food and 25 leters of water and food for one month. which i think if rationed may last 2 months. i am also watching Mexico and what the local goverment is doing there. how they are corden off the city. trainsport is next to be shut down in my view. i think this will be in london in the next 3 days. how bad this can get ..i just dont know.
vigilant006 2 years ago
Urgelt, I've heard that Conutries have begun stockpiling on bottled water and canned foods, I thought you would find this usefull. it seems to be shaping up like the flu of 1918- millions of people wearing masks to protect themselves.. the thougghts of this make me shudder, and even though I am 16, I know many things. please, if you have the time, respond to this.
TheChicagoComedian 2 years ago
There is still quite a lot to learn about A/H1N1 swine flu. But the early data suggests to me that it's nothing like the Spanish flu.
Influenza is never completely benign. Every flu season brings some deaths. Perhaps once every 15-25 years, a more serious pandemic emerges that hits a little harder.
The Spanish Flu was something else entirely. By some estimates it left more than 100 million people dead. It could happen again; but I don't think A/H1N1 is it.
Urgelt 2 years ago
I won't wear a mask for this one. If I get flu symptoms, though, I'll see a doctor right away. I won't wait for an appointment.
Why? Because A/H1N1 is vulnerable to anti-viral drugs such as Tamiflu.
If you are treated with an anti-viral drug within 48 hours of onset of symptoms, it should lesson symptoms and speed recovery.
I always have a stockpile of canned goods, batteries and toilet paper in the house. It's common sense to be prepared for disruptions in routine; they can happen.
Urgelt 2 years ago
urgelt , you must be very rich ,dont know much people that are well educatet as you , god bless
reedeema 2 years ago
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sweetlife2012 2 years ago
It most certainly has not been proven that this new H1N1 strain is man-made.
I won't rule out the possibility. The technology exists. But if the goal was to depopulate us, it failed. This new H1N1 strain appears to be about as bad as the Hong Kong flu. Not trivial, but it won't even make a blip in the population numbers.
The Baxter incident is much more disturbing.
Urgelt 2 years ago
SWINE FLU EMREGENCY
In the U.s and Mexico
chocolate45689 2 years ago
I've been tracking the news reports carefully.
It's a new strain of the H1N1 influenza virus, displaying genes from human, swine and avian influenza. It's definitely not a benign version of the flu. The Centers for Disease Control believe it is too late to contain it; it's loose in the general population and will make the rounds.
I would assess the threat as about the same as the Hong Kong flu pandemic. This is not going to be "The Big One" to rival the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-1919.
Urgelt 2 years ago
I will urge you to be skeptical of death rate reporting out of Mexico. Let me explain.
A couple of days ago, there had been about a thousand reported cases, and 60 deaths. That sounds like a 6% fatality rate, right?
It probably is not anything like that high. If there were a thousand reported cases, you can be sure thousands more were not reported. Not everyone in Mexico sees a doctor, and of those that do, not every case is accurately attributed to this strain.
Urgelt 2 years ago
What I anticipate is that this flu bug is going to deliver a hard-hitting flu season. A lot of people will get sick. Most will recover just fine.
I have two pieces of advice. One, do NOT take aspirin when you have flu symptoms. That's a good way to commit suicide. Reye's Syndrome, you know.
Two, if your fever climbs to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, go to an emergency room. You won't have time to wait for a regular doctor's appointment. You will need help right away.
Urgelt 2 years ago
I don't think we'll see any official quarantines with this bug. That might change if the death rate proves to be higher than I think it will.
We might see some temporary school closings.
I should also add one more piece of advice. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants may help moderate the immune response responsible for many flu deaths. Stock up on leafy green veggies, carrots, etc. Google "antioxidant food source" for suggestions.
Urgelt 2 years ago
? excuse me here, vaccines are NOT something that is good for you!!
And 1 other point, i have read they have stocks of the vaccine ready but are not sure they can make enough more for everyone, you CANNOT make a vaccine for a virus that has not mutated and been studied for a period of time... plus vaccines contain high amounts of mercury which is NOT good for you in any way shapre or form!! its a poison:
watch?v=jCt8TYNRvrQ&feature=related
watch?v=lvE_qif5IpQ&feature=related
ododidit 2 years ago
Vaccines are responsible for the eradication of several diseases. They've done some harm, too. It's a mixed bag, not an unalloyed evil.
Most vaccines contain no mercury, and I hope they will rapidly phase mercury out of the few remaining which do. Mercury in vaccines is stupid.
Did you listen to my video? I said that there will not be enough vaccines for everyone, and that those which are available may be of limited or no value, since they will target a pre-mutation strain.
Urgelt 2 years ago
Hows it goin man? Do you think that some of these viruses that threaten our existence were maybe introduced purposely by humans as a means of population control?
And secondly,do you think perhaps the threat of a pandemic is simply a means of scaring us into getting "vaccinated" with chemicals that might harm the body ,perhaps make us infertile and control population growth that way?
cozzy1000 2 years ago
Using an engineered flu virus as a means of deliberate depopulation is... well, crazy. I suppose there are crazy people out there. Hopefully none has access to the technology required.
The threat of a pandemic does nothing for vaccine sales, for the very good reason that vaccines can't be developed fast enough to meet a pandemic head-on. It'll be over before the first vaccine finishes human trials.
Urgelt 2 years ago
we are past dew for a mass extinction of humans we are getting to big for are britches
hotfuzzfan08 3 years ago
The term "mass extinction of humans" is a muddied use of terms. "Extinction" means an entire species is wiped out. "Mass extinctions" refers to the extinction of many species at once.
Amazingly, some people are actually eager for the human race to terminate itself. They're cheering it on and justifying it with moral arguments.
To themselves, no doubt they make perfect sense.
To me, they come across as utterly insane. There is nothing they can say to me that I want to hear.
Urgelt 3 years ago
i think it would be very interesting to witness tho
hotfuzzfan08 3 years ago
Extinction, if it comes, won't be witnessed so much as experienced. I don't imagine it will be pleasant or amusing.
I'd much prefer to live out my full span and leave the world in the hands of younger generations.
Urgelt 3 years ago
well sir i think this planet needs a fresh start because human arent apprecating it well enough we seem to just be distroying areselfs
hotfuzzfan08 3 years ago
It's true, some people look at history and say, "wow, what a brutish, nasty species this is." And they have a point.
But we have demonstrated that we can improve. I'd hate to shut the door on that potential. I think it might be worth finding out what we can become.
Urgelt 3 years ago
we will just have to see if we make the best of it all we can do is wait and see what happens
hotfuzzfan08 3 years ago
"Make the best of it..." Yes.
"Wait and see..." Well, we can be doing some things to try to shift the outcome in a favorable direction. We don't have to just wait.
Ending our dependence on fossil fuels would be a good start. The technology is available. All we need is early adopters. Once fossil fuels are out of the way, one very large impetus towards war will be removed.
I worry about water, as well, but I think that as new energy sources come on line, it will be less of a problem.
Urgelt 3 years ago
i agree with u totally about that but aslong as there making money off oil it might be awhile
hotfuzzfan08 3 years ago
You don't have to wait.
You can ride a bike. Or electrify a bike and ride that. Or install solar panels. Or invest in a wind farm. Or take a job in one of these industries. Or write articles about these things as a journalist. And plenty more options exist for cutting down our dependency on fossil fuels.
All it requires is for us to decide to take an active, rather than passive, role.
Urgelt 3 years ago
Well doomsday virus eh ,how is it many in the supposed know, reckon its all a hoax, like the swine flu and SARS .....and what glorious vaccines have they got for this flu,mde by who?
videosungod 3 years ago
Actually, SARS did pose a serious threat. The World Health Organization did a good job containing it.
Nobody "in the know," which is to say, involved directly in the science of epidemiology, reckons Avian Influenza to be a hoax.
There is a limited supply of vaccines. It's doubtful those vaccines will be of much use, since the virus will have to mutate before it can become transmissible between humans, and the vaccines are for an older, nontransmissible strain.
Urgelt 3 years ago
They should have h5n1 infomercials broadcasted globaly to make sure every one is informed
chocolate45689 3 years ago
That's a good idea.
I suppose that's what I've tried to do with this YouTube series, but of course I'm just an amateur, not a medical authority. And not many people will see these videos.
Urgelt 3 years ago
im sorry to trouble you (and i feel quite idiotic for my question) but is the true difference between an epidemic and a pandemic?
JifT94 3 years ago
There's really no such thing as an idiotic question. Posing questions is how we learn.
An epidemic occurs when an infectious disease affects many individuals in an area or population at the same time.
A pandemic is an epidemic that becomes very widespread; e.g. multiple geographical regions, or, potentially, the entire world. It's the worst sort of epidemic, in other words, in terms of how many people are affected.
Hope this helps.
Urgelt 3 years ago
Yes, that helped immensely. Thank you.
JifT94 3 years ago
I see passion in your words, The EDF would be very happy to have such a man in there ranks, tho small now we are growing at a rapid rate and want true change, such wisdom you hold would be a great asset to us in our struggle.
Please if your interested contact me and I can guide you to our next meeting.
We really would value such a member.
thank you,
Earthlasthope 3 years ago
take a flu sh0t
D3ADCR4P 3 years ago
Seasonal flu shots won't do any good against a pandemic virus, probably.
I say "probably" because there's a remote chance a mutated avian flu virus might snitch a protein coat from a regular flu virus against which you've had a flu shot. If it does that, you might get some benefit from a seasonal vaccine. But that likelihood is low.
It's hard enough to get those shots to work against "tame" flu viruses, because they mutate so rapidly.
Urgelt 3 years ago
What is Urgelt? Not your real name, I guess? Were you an actor? Or radio personality? You seem to have a bit of the old ham in these videos, with the dramatic presentation.
thomasbhunter007 3 years ago
Urgelt is just a pseudonym.
I was never an actor, and I have never worked professionally in broadcast media or film. I'm just a guy who points a camera at his head, like most of the uploaders here.
There's a bit of the ham in all of us, I think.
Urgelt 3 years ago
Understood - thank you.
thomasbhunter007 3 years ago
oh well! at least its not raining...
voodoou20two 3 years ago
Thank you for putting this up in such an informing manner... You have a great way of explaining this so that everyone can understand it...
Keep up the good work! It has not gone un-noticed.
jon195511 3 years ago
Most welcome, Jon, I'm pleased you got something out of it.
Urgelt 3 years ago
They Might use the Mc Donald's MC chicken sandwich to spread the virus hit billions in a few weeks.
rudymontes1 3 years ago
It's really not a plausible mass vector. Cooking destroys the virus very quickly.
Urgelt 3 years ago
a challenger of wise beard man appears
snipercupX 3 years ago
It's a pleasure to see this serious information provided in such a professional yet simple way. Well done!
apaszta 3 years ago 2
Thank you, apaszta, but you know, in no sense am I a professional on the topics I have presented. My only qualification is interest.
But that's enough to kick off a discussion, I think. I figure if I get it horribly wrong, someone is very likely to kindly point it out. :-)
Urgelt 3 years ago
Thanks! I'm doing a seminar on the threat of a pandemic and your videos really helped!
It really is scary to think about, but it's coming, and we should be as prepared as we can for when it does.
CloudyLover 3 years ago
I honestly think there are much worse dangers facing us every day. But that doesn't mean a pandemic is impossible, and being prepared against disruptions of routine might be helpful in many other situations, too.
When times become troubled, the advantage goes to those who have thought, and planned, and are prepared. Fear, though, is not helpful, as Franklin Roosevelt reminded us years ago.
Urgelt 3 years ago
this is scary. Stuff like this always sound both outrageous and believable. That what makes me worry because even though you won't believe it, it might happen anyway.
RyhthmDefined 3 years ago
It's a possible threat.
Several strains of Avian influenza are remarkably lethal if they manage to infect a human. Viruses evolve rapidly. They do adapt to new hosts in which they are in contact, and the virus is in contact with humans, especially in Asia.
But an influenza threat is manageable.
Staying informed is your best defense - something we can do better today than previous generations.
And don't take aspirin if you contract flu-like symptoms. Contracting Reye's Symdrome is bad.
Urgelt 3 years ago
I dont think it is coming now lol.
KimIsMissing 3 years ago
Heh, probably not this time. Though that is still uncertain.
There are pathogenic threats out there, though, and it pays to keep informed and know what you will do if one hits.
Urgelt 3 years ago
you might be the scariest motherfucker on the web...but I cant look away. great video...morose....but great
karlypilkoids 3 years ago
me like hair on you....
zeet2 4 years ago
good to see these kind of video's on youtube :)
stevenfkramer 4 years ago
I think so, too, Steven.
Educational content and straight-talk doesn't make up a large part of YouTube's video library, but there is some here. More than you can find on broadcast television, where it's an endangered species.
Urgelt 4 years ago
i really appreciate the fact that this man took time out of his life to tell us about Avian Flu. Its a great video. He has a lovely, interesting quite lulling voice. Does anyone think if he shaved his beard, got some contacts and cropped and dyed his hair he could be a dead wringer for RON BURGENDY just because of the way he speaks this video?!? just a thought!
alanna4858 4 years ago
I'm glad you enjoyed the video, Alanna.
I'm guessing Ron Burgundy is in some way admirable? I haven't watched television for so many years, I no longer know who is celebrated, or why.
I have come to suspect that's a prerequisite for sanity.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Hi Urgelt, im really stoked to have a reply from you. I have listened to your other programmes and I think you have a real talent. Well Ron Burgendy is a character in a funny movie who reads the news although he is ridiculous but what i was meaning was you narrate quite like him, especially in this series, with much drama and suspense in your voice.
alanna4858 4 years ago
Great stuff i cant wait to hear more. I was wondering what you have to say on the subject of 'folk devils' in todays media dominated society. For instance, are black males made out to be 'folk devils' by the media?
ALanna x
alanna4858 4 years ago
Fascinating question.
I'm certainly no expert, but I have an opinion.
Unfortunately, my opinion is complex - it really won't fit into a comment block. But I'll try.
The short version is, no and yes. No, it's not as sweeping as "all black males." But yes, black males are often portrayed as frightening.
When people are afraid, it usually goes badly, both for those in fear and the objects of it.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Hey Urgelt, thank you again for the reply. Your answer is vague but i understand about the sweeping generalisation lol, although I was simply using that as a brief example. There are many more folk devils in society (both UK & US). Another example is teenage mothers. I know because I was one myself. Would you do a video? Id love to hear your thoughts in-depth and I might tackle this computer to make a responce if i figure out how to.
Alanna
alanna4858 4 years ago
maybe if he talked faster, the video would be 5 minutes
WindTunnelMiroku 4 years ago
Maybe it would be harder for ppl with english as a second language to comprehend what he says too.
noyearold 4 years ago
The question, "should I talk faster?" is the same as the question, "should I sound just like radio and television broadcasters, who so profoundly shape our expectations?"
Rapid-fire explanations are the rule in advertising-dominated media. Great for sales, which is why they fast-talk. Not so hot for comprehension.
If you want people to think, you have to give them time in which to do it.
Urgelt 4 years ago
you are fine, bro.
i appreciate your message.
fckuvrymch 4 years ago
I sneezed on some old bird, Mrs Cooties, she's 92 and now on her death bed. Have I got H5N1?
locouk 4 years ago
A = human flu
B = Avian flu
A+B = human pandemic. Why pandemic? because we have no immunity to B.
so inoculate people from h5n1 and if it happens, then less would die. Simply add it to the flu shot and recommend everybody gets it.
pandemic solved, you're welcome world. :)
abram730 4 years ago
ALL vaccines are useless and dangerous. Watch my favourites on my vaccinesharmbabies youtube account.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
Einstein was Autistic.
abram730 4 years ago
Well the birdflu bullshit made a fortune for some of the big pharma companies. What a load of bunkum.
BigMickeyBresh 4 years ago
Could be, Mickey.
I think it unlikely that pre-stocked vaccines will do much good. Influenza is notorious among viruses for avoiding vaccines through changing its protein coating.
But I'm not an expert virologist. Perhaps the people making public health decisions know better?
Urgelt 4 years ago
My point is that the idea is to sell plenty of vaccines regardless of their effectiveness! As long as the share price of big pharma is driven up who cares?
Probably a cynical view. However, just look around now. Bird Flu has mysteriously gone away. I'm sure it will reappear when it suits, to fill our minds with more anxiety.
BigMickeyBresh 4 years ago
Oh, Bird Flu is a real threat, all right. Wild strains of influenza have crossed into humans repeatedly and killed tens of millions. Scientists working for WHO, various governments, and universities who are tracking Bird Flu's progress are learning a lot about how it happens.
But I agree, you can't trust information if it's only coming from Big Pharma or its advocates. They have a motive to distort, and regularly do.
Urgelt 4 years ago
"The WHO's unofficial policy is one of murder and of genocide."
Dr A Kalokerinos MD, Australia
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
"I'm not an expert virologist. Perhaps the people making public health decisions know better?"
They work for the medical-pharmaceutical mafia that's a menace to the health of everyone on this planet.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
good info to know, now you got me doing more research on this bird flu virus.
Fzero1775 4 years ago
Good. I think we're all better off if we have our eyes open and our minds informed. Information is the most potent weapon we have against a pandemic.
Urgelt 4 years ago
that creeped me out. Now im scared to go outside...im gonna catch it....but very informative anyways,thanks
Lemonpop21 4 years ago
A pandemic won't catch you by surprise. You'll hear all about it on the news long before it arrives in your community.
Remember, the odds are thought to be against one getting loose. But if one does, you need not panic, especially if you've thought ahead and know how you will handle your career, schools, and supplies during periods of danger.
Urgelt 4 years ago
its really quite shocking when you look at the evidence about how much pharma are going to charge for their bird flu treatment, tamiflu, that has very major health risks. if you compare it with the results from far cheaper and far safer alternatives that have proven much more effective you realize how much control big pharmaceutical companies have on free speech over health issues.
the best info is at: w\w\w DOT truthmed DOT org, its really quite shocking!
Percy203 4 years ago
As I said in my videos, I don't think vaccines are going to be much of a factor in dealing with an Avian Flu outbreak, if one should occur.
The absolute best way to avoid it is to dodge becoming infected in the first place. Being well informed is the key.
Urgelt 4 years ago
"I don't think vaccines are going to be much of a factor in dealing with an Avian Flu outbreak"
The vaccine is going to be useless, but does already paly an important part in all this, as governments are going to stockpile the vaccine and make vaccination mamdatory in the event of a pandemic, which may be break out "as planned" rather than "by accident". I am far more concerend about thei plans to vaccinate us than the disease itself.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
No thank you Urgelt,
I love your video's as they add a understanding to many serious subjects.
I wonder how you view "Global Warming" as shown by the media etc.
I ask, as today in Britain we had rainfall as never recorded before - so what we are seeing in the rest of the world is true - mm now that should be a sobering thought!
Hope to see a reply when you get a chance.
Regards Willybizz
willybizz 4 years ago
I've been thinking about global warming a lot lately. I may just decide to do a video about it.
I'm an occasional poster, though, so don't look for it to be rapid.
Urgelt 4 years ago
oh i thought you were resiting this from memory lol
Hunterery 4 years ago
I may have given the wrong impression.
I write my own narratives. They are essays which draw on multiple sources. I do not read text from other sources.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Nice vid Urgel you're a wise man and you can very good explain things.
generaldeejee 4 years ago
Thanks, General, I'm glad you found it to be clear.
Urgelt 4 years ago
hmmm are u reading a doctors blog? lol jk
Hunterery 4 years ago
I'm reading the World Health Organization web site, and news articles, mostly.
Urgelt 4 years ago
"the World Health Organization web site"
A good source of misinformation, although it can be a valuable source of information if one can "read between the lines."
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
Hi there, Urgelt...
Just posting a quick note to say I really enjoy your vids. Informative and very interesting to watch/listen to. Kudos!
lupine73 4 years ago
Thank you. Very informing and very well done. Here's the problem...people are arrogant and skeptical. They've gotten enough faux Tornado Warnings from their weatherman to not seek shelter, some people and besides people think we cannot fall, least of all America. Ah, the Romans, the Egyptians, the Greeks...where are they? Where will we be?
Theotokos86 4 years ago
Skepticism is generally a good thing, I think. What you're talking about is really "desensitization" - as in, if someone yells "fire" in every theater during every show, eventually nobody will pay attention.
Arrogance is a silly thing, isn't it? Given the scale of the enormous universe, our tiny place in it, and the inexorable march of time, arrogance should have no place in our thinking.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Well I agree skeptisim can be good. To believe things too easily without doubt is not wise.
Theotokos86 4 years ago
wow i only knew that birflu first recorded somepoint around 1896 in italy and the first dtrain of the h5 was recorded in scotland in the fifties!!!
Andy17 4 years ago
Yes... avian flu has been around a good long while. There are many other diseases lurking in animal reservoirs, too... any of them could develop a virulent animal strain that increases exposure to humans and thus risk of crossing over. It pays for humanity to pay attention to animal diseases.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I suspect that AIDS, SARS and "bird flu" are man-made.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
Keep up the good work, sir. Your videos are fascinating and it's always great to hear intellectual input on these topics. Thanks again.
Arhaych 4 years ago
Glad you like them, Ryan, and thank you for your comment.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I admire you Urgelt. You are an inspirational man.
I would like to say what a charismatic man like you can teach a student like me but I do not think my words would be unique, as others have given you numberous compliments.
I'll just tell you that I learn from you in a way that others might not, thank you for that.
Jazzystijn1987 4 years ago
Thank you, Jazzystijn1987, I'm glad you found something to enjoy in my videos.
Urgelt 4 years ago
worst about pandemic spreading is when people almost feel sick, they go all at the hospital and spreads it around, magazines they read, the seats, they might be feaverish, walking toutching a wall only spreads more. so stay home and risk death or go to the hospital and infect others... i don't go to hostpital unless i can't stand on my own feets... quite ofthen i have been told i had a few hourers to live but i can't imagin death being so... weak? when is the right time to go?
Slayer7666COF 4 years ago
Fighting for life is in our natures, I think. But there is a a time to let go. You'll know when it comes.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Congradulations on being "Featured" by YouTube. Thanks to them, I now have a pleasure of veiwing your videos.
metalgear8871 4 years ago
Thanks, MG.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I love the videos you create, Urgelt. They are honest and informative, and you're not afraid to admit the truth of the situation. Since I'm still young, the thought of such an outbreak happening during my lifetime is a scare.
Thank you, Urgelt, for uploading this video, as well as the subsequent follow-ups. I am certainly subscribing to you.
Veryvery77 4 years ago
Welcome, Veryvery77.
A little planning ahead for a pandemic can take care of most of the danger to us, I think.
Urgelt 4 years ago
great video, thanxx for the needed info.
ive watch some of your other videos and i think they are just great
illjustice 4 years ago
Thank you, illjustice, for your encouragement and appreciation.
Urgelt 4 years ago
You are my new news source, no more late night BBC, Urgelt you keep them coming.
AndersonReel 4 years ago
Heh, well. BBC can produce more than I can, and actually, BBC has done quite a lot of very good quality reporting. I don't think I can replace the pre-eminent world network with a YouTube channel that averages less than one short video per week.
But I'm glad you enjoyed my videos, and thank you for your comment.
Urgelt 4 years ago
you've got a real nice voice, and a way of saying this. You're a nice communicator. Besides, you talk about intelectual, important and interesting things. Congratulations =D
MaGyunia 4 years ago
Thank you, MaGyunia, I'm glad you think so.
Urgelt 4 years ago
You remind me of Paul Harvey, which is the highest complement I can give to an orator. Keep up the good work.
popeoptimusprime 4 years ago
Mr. Harvey has been a fixture in the radio business for a long time now. He must have spoken hundreds of millions of words into a mic. It is a high compliment, indeed, thank you.
Urgelt 4 years ago
you are a VERY learned and well spoken individual, love your videos, great insights!..and yes please dont retire from youtube
koolkidz588 4 years ago
I hope to be here for a good while yet, Koolkidz588. Thank you for your generous comment.
Urgelt 4 years ago
He is brilliant. How much knowledge to you have of world issues, slim to none, compared it Urgelt, one would presume. Leave?
SeanTheGuitarist 4 years ago
He's gone, Sean, no worries. I don't tolerate haters. It just takes a while to get to them all during a feature.
Urgelt 4 years ago
you RULE you are cool and you are vise ;-) i enjoyed
Olwowgw 4 years ago
Heh, thanks. :-)
Urgelt 4 years ago
I found these videos very informative and just what i've been looking for to explain to me, in a way i can interprate, what threat the H5N1 virus poses.
Urgelt, keep up the good work and i damn sure hope you don't retire from Youtube anytime soon
nuemonichero 4 years ago
I'm glad you found them useful, Nuemonichero.
I hope to be around for a while, but of course the future is not ours to know.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Dude Aren't u to old for youtube
xOpTiMO420x 4 years ago
Perhaps you are right.
Tell you what. You make all the videos that need to be made about health, nutrition and poetry, and I'll retire from YouTube. Deal?
Urgelt 4 years ago
You make some good points here, my friend! I'm off to see part two...
KennyWrites 4 years ago
Grats, Kenny, glad you came by.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Wow, thank you for the very informative video, Terence. It's a frightening concept...but it's crucial that we learn about it.
I like how you injected random questions without answering them right away - it keeps the reader interested!
angelicharmony 4 years ago
It's kinda funny. I don't fear a pandemic, and would not if it were 100% certain. Infection is avoidable.
Things have changed a lot since 1918. Avian flu can't sneak up on the US. It'll be tracked everywhere it appears - if it does. With a little preparation, avoiding it for most people should be as easy as stepping around an uncovered manhole. It's mainly dangerous if you don't understand the danger or aren't paying attention.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Nice video, I just hate these stupid chain letter idiots tho Grrrr!!!
mattywilson 4 years ago
Me too, Matty. I've removed the chain letter comments.
Glad you enjoyed it, and thank you for your comment.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I had the flu when I was 26--and quite healthy beforehand. It knocked me flat for a week. I could easily see how it could kill someone older or less healthy in the first place. Scary stuff!~Moonchime
Moonchimes 4 years ago
Sure, the flu can hit pretty hard.
H5N1, though, is in a completely different category. In 2003, there were 4 human cases, all 4 died. By 2006, the total had risen to 261 cases and 157 deaths. If H5N1 hangs on to that level of lethality and gains human to human transmissibility - big ifs - it will be a *lot* more dangerous than conventional flu.
Urgelt 4 years ago
There will be another pandemic. It may or may not be the H51N strain. But it will happen. The world is very connected. Due to modern technology, a person can travel to the other side of our planet in less then a day. That is much faster then in the early 1900's. Several weeks faster. Another excellent video. 5 stars. I must now check out part 2.
Sumduhmguy 4 years ago
The experts agree with you, SDG. But I think it might not happen exactly as the 1918-1919 Spanish Flu pandemic happened. The potential for rapid dissemination is there... but we can also rapidly disseminate information. An awful lot of deaths happened during the Spanish Flu pandemic because people weren't informed and didn't know what to do.
Thank you for your comment.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Very informative as always good Sir. The Spanish flu came when the world was locked in global conflict, and once again we could be facing both prospects at once as well.
Man is resilient though and will make it through.
altebanger 4 years ago
Agreed, David. We'll make it through if a pandemic comes.
The more awareness we have, I think, the less damage it can do to us.
Urgelt 4 years ago
The "Spanish" flu was caused by mass vaccination programmes inflicted on demoralised (through the war) and malnourished populations.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
the first flu vaccine was not manufactured until 1945. The spanish flu epidemic was much earlier, 1918. People died from that epidemic mostly from secondary pneumococcal infection. there were alot of other factors contributing to the spread, like the war, new faster, transportation like airplanes and airships, close unsanitary conditions created by the war, etc etc.
creegirl9 4 years ago
Some jackass went and poisonded a lot of ducks in our town, causing a country-wide birdflu hysteria. :D
IconOfSin88 4 years ago
Ugh.
That is seriously scummy behavior.
Urgelt 4 years ago
The numbers of birds killed by bird flu is nowhere near 100 million,most of the birds where killed by government legislation.
Bird flu is transmited by bird poops whichcan only be transmitted when then inhaled.Plus it only usually kills the very old and young.
The chance of bird flu becoming a virilant airbourne mutated virus is virtually nil.
theheathyfella 4 years ago
1. It's an estimate. It may be wrong. Nobody really knows how many in flocks have died. 2. It can be transmitted in eggs, slaughtered bird flesh, water where they have pooped, even touching infected birds. 3. Your "nil" assessment is in complete disagreement with World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control experts.
Urgelt 4 years ago
"World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control experts."
They may know things we don't, like when the beginning of the "bird flu" pandemic has been scheduled for.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
Thank you, 5 stars!
leftofleft 4 years ago
Much appreciated. :-)
Urgelt 4 years ago
Great video..yes pandemic is coming and more. 5 stars
DisturbedEarth 4 years ago
It might be. We'll see. Glad you enjoyed the video, DisturbedEarth.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Thank you Urgelt...
Informative and yet leaves most of us feeling--in a sense-- helpless in the face of a pandemic. As an individual in a very large city, I automatically think about stocking up, the next thought is that if such a thing did occur... leaving for the country.
AsertyDances 4 years ago
We're not able to control every variable in our lives, agreed. But I think we aren't helpless - especially if we plan ahead a bit.
Leaving might be hard to do, once a pandemic has entered the city you're in. The last thing the authorities will want is mass migrations.
But I think your chances of survival are very high right where you are, with a bit of planning. That'll be in Part III.
Urgelt 4 years ago
A very informative video, as always! In Germany we have had our very own birdie flu hysteria about a year ago...well. I had a flu these days, nearly no voice, so i wont be able to do a vid. All the best, Urgelt! :)
Truly yours!
schantifreund 4 years ago
Hope you get over that quickly, Schantifreund. Thanks for your comment.
Urgelt 4 years ago
Gee..5% of the world, thats pretty scary if it were that high.
A pandemic of this flu wouldn't surprise me and neither would a global depression. Obviously that would be a horrible nightmare, but this world wasn't meant to last forever. But that's my opinion.
U did a Great job on this and heaps of research by the sounds of it. This is stuff people need to take notice of, istead of ignoring it and thinking it couldn't ever happen to them.
*HUGS*
nayomee77 4 years ago
A worst-case pandemic would be rough, but it won't destroy humanity or the world, happily. Like the Spanish Flu, afterward the survivors will bury the dead and carry on.
When it comes right down to it, humanity is pretty resilient.
Always glad to hear from you, Naomi. *Hugs*
Urgelt 4 years ago
"humanity is pretty resilient"
I reckon! It has survived wars, famines and epidemics, but may not survive the insane vaccination programmes inflicted on babies and young children.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
3) It's obvious that we cannot control our population growth, so then possibly nature will do it for us? I'm not attaching any morality to this question, whether it's right or wrong to let nature take its course, just observing how it works for the rest of the animal kingdom. Now morally, is it "wrong" to let mother-nature have its way with us? Is it beneficial or detrimental to our species, in the long-term view, to have our population controlled by nature, if we cannot do it ourselves?
KobyBrandt 4 years ago
Hmm. I think you failed to disentangle morality from your question, despite intending to.
If we pose it as a strictly scientific question, "are we still subject to natural forces operating to limit and cull our population," you can get an unambiguous answer. Yes.
"Is that good?" That question could be mined for a thousand PhD theses - in philosophy, not science.
Urgelt 4 years ago
2) Now, following this, an evolutionary/ecological question comes to mind. Man has no natural enemies, worthy of our fear or out of our control, except himself and natural catastrophes such as disease. This is unlike all other species of animals on the planet, that all have natural enemies in which to keep their populations in check. Then, based on that fact, can we not ask that disease on a pandemic scale is nature's way of reducing & controlling our exponentially-increasing population?
KobyBrandt 4 years ago
Leaving aside the moral/ethical dimension for the moment, I would say the answer is yes.
Man is still part of an ecosphere, a fragile little life-support bubble in a big hostile universe. We share that bubble with disease organisms and don't fully control them (yet). We're also vulnerable to perterbations from outside the bubble.
Urgelt 4 years ago
"is disease on a pandemic scale nature's way of reducing & controlling our exponentially-increasing population?"
It's may be, but is more likely to be the psychopathic crime syndicate that's running the world's way of reducing populations down to more manageable levels.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
1) I was thinking of Michael Crichton's book "The Andromeda Strain" while you were speaking of the possible Avian-flu pandemic -- except that this potential strain is terrestrial, not extra-terrestrial. If we are unable to get the policy-makers in our current Government to protect us from the onslaught of mere hurricanes, then can we really move them to "protect" us against possible catastrophic pandemics? I'm laughing almost hysterically while I envision my own answer to my own question.
KobyBrandt 4 years ago
We can trust them to try. And I think they are trying very hard in this case.
Urgelt 4 years ago
I agree. Governments are part of the problem, not the solution. The three lies people are most familiar with are these:
1. "The cheque is in the mail!"
2. "I'll still respect you in the morning!"
3. "We're from te government. We're here to help you!"
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
Very gripping video Urgelt, you really have a gift for captivating and articulating your point. Thank you for sharing this, it is very important information that needs to be in the public consciousness.
Is there anything we can do to prepare individually? Furthermore, what can over governments do to protect us that they are not currently doing?
Thank you,
Dustin
losetogain 4 years ago
There certainly are things you can do, and I'll talk about that (and more important, pass on some great links) in Part III.
As for governments: Well, WHO and national governments are cooperating and treating each new H5N1 case as an emergency. That's exactly right. I'm not sure they have done enough about education, though, nor planning emergency operations in the event a pandemic hits. Really, you should be hearing this from governments, not me.
Urgelt 4 years ago
The WHO and governments are all corrupt and evil as far as I am concerned. If there is any danger from a bird flu pandemic at all, it is likely to come from them. Keep away from all vaccines and flu drugs.
vaccinesharmbabies 4 years ago
I work in IT at a health care facility and there was a meeting about Pandemic Flu earlier this week. I was interested in watching it, but unfortunately I didn't get to do so. I doubt that was the last meeting about it, though. Thank you, Urgelt!
LadySeneca 4 years ago