dispatches from the new world of work

H5N1 Redux Redux (Again)

Worst scenario yet. The October National Geographic, hardly a rad rag, in its October cover story ("The Next Killer Flu: Can we stop it?") surfaces a plausible estimate of 180 million to 360 million worldwide deaths. [audio on ng.com]

My only mission: Get this to the/near the top of our agenda—these numbers outpace Al Quaeda, at its worst, by a country mile.

Tom Peters posted this on 10/03/05.

Comments

Tom,

As demonstrated by FEMA's recent incompetencies, it's unlikely that our government will recognize the threat, let alone act on it, before there's little that they can do to prevent it.

What do you suggest individuals do to protect themselves and family?

Tom

Posted by Tom at October 3, 2005 12:07 PM

These numbers really change any plan we could have for the future. What can we do?

Posted by Felix Gerena at October 3, 2005 12:45 PM

"outpace Al Quaeda"?????

If I was UBL, or any other of America's rogue state/terrorist state/axis of evil enemies, I wouldnt be spending money on nukes, or poison gas, , or any of that crap.

I would send 5, 10, 15 college educated, suicide bombers/party loyalists/mercenaries to Asia to get their hands on/buy from a doctor who makes $15k per year/get infected with this virus.

Then send them to the G8 nations and watch the 'fun'.

Smallpox in blankets 2 centuries ago? With the prevalence of suicide bombers in the world, you dont need to be a Bond villan to kill thousands or millions. Hell, werent there reports of Saddam sending his doctors to African towns with Ebola outbreaks?

Health Care is a National Security Issue. Homeland Defense begins with a stockpile of vaccines and a bigger budget for the CDC.

Posted by Sean Bohan at October 3, 2005 7:14 PM