H1N1 --- The Newest Media Darling
Posted: Wednesday, November 04, 2009
by Gerry Charbonneau
http://nibblednews.typepad.com
"Anxiety is a thin stream of fear trickling through the mind. If encouraged, it cuts a channel into which all other thoughts are drained." Arthur Somers Roche
Newspapers, television and even radio commentators these days seem to relish an on going relationship and love affair with the H1N1 virus.
Each and every day a new human tragedy, deception, revelation or insight is offered a panicking and much concerned public.
They also readily admit that they seriously miscalculated the virus' ability to conform to the standard and norms they had set for it. The second wave strain of the virus keeps mutating while the scientists continue to be bogged down with events and circumstances they cannot control.
Public apprehension and disgust increase daily. The medical professionals whom the public expect to keep them healthy and safe have let them own big time. A national state of emergency has mutated itself into a classic medical fiasco.
The experts have assumed the cartoon persona of an Elmer Fudd valiantly yet comically trying to pursue and outsmart Bugs Bunny but know deep down that their attempts are in vain.
Reliable sources, such as the CBS news magazine 60 Minutes is also guilty of adding its bit to the media hype and hoopla. A recent Sunday night newscast informed an anxious viewing audience that the chicken farm that houses these wonder hens is classified as a government security installation.
I am sure that a family with young children or loved ones in the high risk category for the virus will rest assured that Uncle Sam and tax dollars are working hard to protect these birds from the clutches of Colonel Sanders or other sinister types of malcontents.
It is commendable that the scientists and the pharmaceutical company gurus who produce the vaccine admitted that they goofed. We can all breathe a little easier knowing that they are now valiantly attempting to correct the problem.
It is reprehensible that the news hungry media outlets continue to fan the flames of fear and pubic apprehension this virus has produced.
I think we are all sick and tired of the sensationalizing the media news sources are providing to merely increase their viewing numbers and advertising revenues.
The H1N1 virus is a serious medical issue. We can only hope the news outlets get their acts together and start reporting this crisis responsibly.
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Top-level comments on this article: (4 total)EXCELLENT article, Gerry. I would add that it would be sooo nice if the news outlets start reporting...everythng... responsibly. We seem to have become a nation addicted to the "Ain't it awful" mindset. How sadThank you Joyce for your comment and insight.
Commercial advertisers and the news media have successfully teamed up to bring viewers a packaged account of the news. Many newscasters pander to the whims and demands of clients. The viewer has to decide for him(her) self how much hype and hoopla they want to visually ingest. We do have the power to change channels but the dour content plagues every channel.
Hi Gerry.You nailed two of my biggest pet peeves right to the wall when you wrote, "The medical professionals whom the public expect to keep them healthy and safe have let them [own] big time." and " It is reprehensible that the news hungry media outlets continue to fan the flames of fear and pubic apprehension this virus has produced."First off, the only one who will ever do their utmost to keep you safe is you. To expect any other entity to do it for you is silly ... in my book. And no one knows better how to take the best care of you than you do yourself.Secondly, I am sick to death of "fear mongering." It's used to create a perceived need for something and thereby sell it to people in one fashion or another. And I'm not talking just about retail and consumerism, though I think manufacturers and their advertisers are some of the most reprehensible in this area.I did actually "hear" the main thrust of your article and I do agree that the whole H1N1 thing has been mishandled. I just had to get my two cents in. Thanks for the opportunity. :)Great article and very good points,DianneGood evening Diane
I am glad you also voiced your opinion. Much appreciated.
I guess you vented your spleen admirably well for all of us.Let's read some good news for a change.Glad you enjoyed the article.
Hi Gerry,Very good sharing. Recently our Chief Minister was affected by same virus and he got recovery. There are so many people died and it is still dieing due to this H1N1 virus in our state. Once again thanks for such nice article.Thank you for writing Gitesh.I am glad you appreciated and enjoyed the article.The H1N1 virus seems to be more political than medical in nature.The long lineups of people waiting to receive the vaccine only adds to the sense of fear and dread we all fear.
Good article! Needed saying and you said well.Thank you Andy for commenting. Much appreciated.
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