What’s free: books and advice

Last week was the beginning of spring break. I was planning to go on a trip but cancelled it (it remains to be seen if I get a refund from the airline) and instead, have begun putting my lectures on line. Yes, I’m a teacher and like all teachers, I’m doing my best to keep learning going. I can’t imagine what will happen if education halts and future health care professionals and scientists can’t get proper training. Oh wait, yes I can imagine it and it is a part of Lost in Waste, where a self-trained medic takes on a variety of roles in society.

In fact, you can read all about it for free this week. My publisher is hosting a give away and Lost in Waste is free as an e-book from 3-25 to 3-27.

I’ve been busy giving my lectures a voice over. Fortunately, I was a DJ back in the good old days of radio, before it was swallowed up by huge corporations like I Heart Radio. However easy it is for me to record my lessons, accessing courses remotely is not easy for every student.

These are weird times. The people who once warned of Killing Granny now say go out and stimulate the economy. Are they hypocrites?

This is why we need to be cautious of politicians dictating our health decisions. Many cannot be trusted. And when it comes to going out, listen to those who say “DON’T” if you can. There are several reasons

You might get it. No one knows exactly how this new virus might act. It’s not just a cold or flu, but you can read about viruses and the flu here for a refresher on viral diseases. People of all ages are getting covid and being hospitalized–even babies. Of those who live, some develop a lung condition. It’s possible that a heart condition may also occur. And as far as immunity goes, in general people who have been infected with other coronaviruses have only a short lived immunity.
You’ll spread it. You can have no symptoms and spread it. Even if you have it and recover without needing a doctor, you can spread the virus for up to two weeks following recovery. If you can stay home, please do. Not everybody can. You might need those who are affected. In fact, in at least one case, a relatively young police dispatcher has died from COVID.
Your doctor might get it. Your local paramedic or firefighter might get it. Many states, including lots of rural ones, have doctor shortages. States with plenty of doctors are currently overwhelmed. Doing procedures such as inserting breathing tubes makes healthcare providers more vulnerable than the average person. What will happen if this disease spreads across rural America? You won’t be seeing a doctor, or there won’t be anyone to take you to the hospital, that’s what will happen.

4. Historically, as illustrated by the 1918 flu pandemic, ignoring medical advice in order to make money has been a disaster for the nation and the president.

I admit, sheltering in place is boring. My hair is starting to look like that insider trading chick from Georgia’s. And it’s only the beginning. Sob! In the mean time, these books are free on Amazon for a short time. Please, click away!