posted on October 24, 2001 03:31:41 PM new
Yesterday I watched National Geographic Today. One of the topics was the fact that smallpox was something that our government was worried would be used as a weapon against us.
Smallpox was wiped out worldwide decades ago. So long ago in fact that the vaccine isn't needed anymore.
When it was finnaly decided that smallpox had been wiped off the earth all governemts had to hand over any samples or specimens they had. Supposedly they all did.
But according to National Geographic Today, there is cause to worry that not everone handed all there specimens over.
Used as a weapon, smallpox is FAR FAR worse than anthrax could ever hope to be. It's easier to contract, most often it kills whoever gets it (though not always), and it only takes a small amount to infect someone.
The goverment was so concerned about it that enough vaccines for everyone in the country has been ordered. (according to NGToday)
So should we worry?
I don't think it is possble to order enough for everyone. Heck, they can't even get the amount of flu vaccine needed correct. They've been off EVERY year...
posted on October 24, 2001 03:59:39 PM new
From what I have heard, smallpox is a threat. Those born before 1972 were vaccinated, but would have to receive booster shots. Those born after '72 need vaccine. There are NOT enough vaccines, and although the government is in the process of increasing the supply, it will take 6 months to a year to get ready. Researchers are currently looking into diluting the supply that we do have to see if it will be effective once it is diluted. They have tried cutting it 100 to 1, that didn't work. They are currently workin on cutting to 10 to 1.
I have no links as this info was on one of the TV news stations this afternoon.
It is our patriotic duty to worry about everything for the duration. Well then, I should be receiving a patriot medal any day now, as I am worrying enough for 10 people!
posted on October 24, 2001 04:02:59 PM newall governemts had to hand over any samples or specimens they had. Supposedly they all did.
Incorrect. Who requested that the stores of smallpox virus be turned over the The US or the Soviet Union. WHO later requested that the virus stores be destroyed in 1999. That deadline was extended to 2002.
[quote]Recent allegations from Ken Alibek, a former deputy director of the Soviet Union's civilian bioweapons program, have heightened concern that smallpox might be used as a bioweapon. Alibek8 reported that beginning in 1980, the Soviet government embarked on a successful program to produce the smallpox virus in large quantities and adapt it for use in bombs and intercontinental ballistic missiles; the program had an industrial capacity capable of producing many tons of smallpox virus annually. Furthermore, Alibek reports that Russia even now has a research program that seeks to produce more virulent and contagious recombinant strains. Because financial support for laboratories in Russia has sharply declined in recent years, there are increasing concerns that existing expertise and equipment might fall into non-Russian hands.[/quote]
posted on October 24, 2001 07:30:35 PM new
If they let smallpox loose upon the earth again the best thing you could do would be to remove to some hidey hole way up in the mountains and not have any human contact for a year or so.
You DO have a hide out somewhere don't you with supplies buried?
