Chapter 1: The Weight of Numbers

The beliefs people cling to often create barriers that prevent them from accepting reality. Michael Specter poignantly noted, “People wrap themselves in their beliefs. And they do it in such a way that you can’t set them free. Not even the truth will set them free.” This encapsulates how certain pieces of scientific data are misused to dismiss a very real danger.

As highlighted in a report by The Economist, the official count of global fatalities due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has reached 7 million as of September 23. However, their tracker estimates that the real number of excess deaths could be as high as 26.1 million, with a 95% probability that the actual figure falls between 18.1 million and 32.9 million.

Take a moment to reflect on those statistics. The true impact is estimated to be 2.5 to 4.5 times greater than the reported figures. Even at the lower estimate of 7 million, that’s more lives lost than those taken by Hitler during World War II.

Recent research published in the NRHA Journal of Rural Health reveals that 61.8% of farmworkers who either suspected or confirmed a SARS-CoV-2 infection reported experiencing long COVID symptoms lasting longer than 28 days. These workers are particularly vulnerable to long-term effects, primarily due to limited access to healthcare, disability benefits, and paid leave, often exacerbated by low wages and undocumented status. Their working and living environments, which are frequently overcrowded, also contribute to recurrent infections, further jeopardizing their capacity to perform demanding labor.

Consider the implications of this. The individuals who cultivate our food are becoming increasingly ill, compounded by environmental degradation that threatens our food systems.

A critical examination by T.A.C.T. sheds light on the dubious nature of a new government initiative distributing free COVID tests. These tests are being disseminated without any clear guidance on proper usage or timing, akin to giving someone a sophisticated gadget with no manual.

“It’s crucial to make use of the free COVID-19 tests; however, the lack of explicit instructions makes this effort appear more like a cover-up than a genuine attempt to assist,” the article states. There are no reminders to wait 4 or 5 days after symptom onset before testing or to retest 48 hours after a negative result. Additionally, there is no official platform for recording positive results to support public health data.

For transparency, authorities could advise, “Make sure to obtain a PCR test through your healthcare provider or, at the very least, take a photo of your positive at-home test result for future reference.” Having documented proof could prove essential for those seeking disability insurance or Social Security Disability benefits, as claims often face rejection without solid evidence.

Unfortunately, many people do not consult a doctor, leading to a lack of documentation, and they often discard the tests, leaving positive results unrecorded. This scenario may shield the government from accountability while complicating individuals' ability to substantiate their COVID-19 history when claiming Long COVID-related benefits. Regrettably, this might be the underlying motivation for distributing “free” tests.

This situation reiterates the apparent intent of public officials to restore a sense of normalcy, even at the expense of public health.

If you conduct even the simplest of self-assessments, it becomes clear that we are largely unaware of our exposure risks. Engaging with someone who has children in school might mean you've unknowingly interacted with numerous others, including classmates and their families.

The rise of hospital-acquired COVID cases correlates with increased community transmission rates. As the public has largely ceased protective measures, we can anticipate this trend will continue. Establishments once synonymous with health and wellness, such as gyms and medical facilities, have now become hotspots for COVID transmission.

Moreover, there are those who downplay their experiences with COVID, claiming it wasn’t severe, while overlooking the long-term damage this virus can inflict on their health.

If someone in your circle has contracted COVID multiple times, it’s important to inform them that they now face:

• A twofold increase in the risk of death
• A threefold increase in hospitalization likelihood
• A twofold increase in the risk of developing long COVID and chronic fatigue
• A threefold increase in heart complications and blood clotting disorders

Reflect on that for a moment.

I did discover a resource detailing where free COVID tests are still available, although I suspect that efforts to minimize the perceived seriousness of this ongoing threat might lead to the closure of these services in the future.

As is often said in espionage narratives, “Trust no one”; your well-being may not be their priority.

Chapter 2: The Long Shadow of COVID-19

In the video "How Far Can Too Far Go?", we explore the boundaries of our responses to the pandemic and the implications of our choices.

Another insightful take is presented in "The Cramps - How Far Can Too Far Go," examining the cultural and social dimensions of our pandemic experiences.