I’m sometimes amused at the critical comments that show up at the ends of some of my posts. It seems that some critics prefer to spend more time hurling insults than in trying to contribute meaningful dialogue.
There are exceptions. One, who identifies herself as Zoe, disagrees with me virtually 100 percent of the time. But at least she attempts to back up her position with her own research, flawed though some of it has turned out to be. Also, Zoe has never personally insulted me and for that, I am appreciative.
I can’t say the same for others whose comments are just laced with sarcasm, rarely offering any facts to back up their claims. One who pops up from time to time in the comments section identifies himself only as “L.” His actual last name is Frost and I suspect he’s also he one who jumps onto the reviews of my books to describe them as trash, nonsense, a waste of money, etc.
He may well be correct in his assessment of my literary talent, but I wish he would at least read the book before attacking it. To simply offer negative comments without even picking up the book is artistic prostitution in its very worst form.
I will say this for L, though. The guy is a regular Bob Hope. He’s so hilarious, he really should go on tour.
Another called me a “socialist democrat” for my post about vaccines and masks. I’m not sure how he makes the stretch from my wanting to take steps to prevent my contracting COVID to being a socialist – especially when he obviously can’t even define the meaning of the term.
My favorite, though, was from a reader who reminded me that a vaccine was an “experimental gene therapy using mRNA” still in early trials and not yet approved by the FDA. Somehow, he worked Garth Brooks into his comments, which kind of lost me.
But now I’m here to admit the error of my ways and to express my contrition with just one word:
Ivermectin.
Yes, that’s correct. Forget all those half-baked COVID vaccinations. Throw out those useless masks. Get yourself some good old cattle dewormer. That’ll do the trick. Hell, an authority no less reputable than Dr. Paul Marik of Eastern Virginia Medical School says it’s all the rage, preferable even to dexamethasone that came so highly recommended by Donald Trump, though probably not as effective as bleach or ultra-violet lights shoved up your derriere.
I had no idea ivermectin had so many uses, though after watching me dance at a club once, a veterinarian called me aside and said I looked like I needed deworming.
Dr. James Ford, a pulmonary and critical care physician at a Baton Rouge hospital said there was a real risk of overdosing which could result in neurological problems, seizures or even death. “Ivermectin isn’t the problem,” he said. COVID is the problem. If people are focusing on eating dewormer instead of getting the vaccine that could save their life, that’s a new problem.”
Well, obviously Dr. Ford doesn’t understand so, I will try to enlighten him. First, Donald Trump said COVID was just the flu, that it affected only about 15 people and would “magically disappear” even though he told writer Bob Woodward that he knew it was a pandemic long before anyone ever attached that description to the virus.
When that didn’t happen, he instituted Operation Warp Speed to develop a vaccine, albeit pretty late in the game when he finally got around to it.
Now, Trump wants to take all the credit for development of the vaccine but stops short of recommending that his devotees take it or wear masks.
One of our readers commented that he wanted no part of the vaccine until it was approved by the FDA.
Yet, that same FDA specifically notes that ivermectin has not been approved for treating or preventing COVID and that taking large doses of the drug “is dangerous and can cause serious harm. The FDA also says, “Never use medications intended for animals on yourself. Ivermectin preparations for animals are very different from those approved for humans.”
The agency also released the following INFORMATION on ivermectin:
“The FDA has not reviewed data to support use of ivermectin in COVID-19 patients to treat or to prevent COVID-19; however, some initial research is underway. Taking a drug for an unapproved use can be very dangerous. This is true of ivermectin, too.
“There’s a lot of misinformation around, and you may have heard that it’s okay to take large doses of ivermectin. That is wrong.
“Even the levels of ivermectin for approved uses can interact with other medications, like blood-thinners. You can also overdose on ivermectin, which can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hypotension (low blood pressure), allergic reactions (itching and hives), dizziness, ataxia (problems with balance), seizures, coma and even death.”
Vaccine doubters, mostly Republicans, invoke the “my body, my choice” rallying cry that they usurped from pro-choice women. Seems the Republicans are all about dictating what a woman can do with her body but don’t want anyone telling them they need to wear masks or get vaccinated – or better yet, both – in order to protect themselves and those around them.
And they don’t seem to have a problem of exposing millions of school children by forbidding school boards in Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi and Texas from mandating masks.
And in so doing, they point to the inexact science of the vaccines while farm supply stores in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas are running out of dewormer.
Yeah, that makes sense.
Head scratcher here! I can’t fathom this kind of thinking; it boggles the mind. Thanks for this good column, Tom.
Kay
Gee, I wonder how much D-Con it would take to zap that Rona? I’m not a big fan of censorship, but surely there is a way to control dangerous misinformation – like making its publication a real crime, perhaps?
So, you support government censorship ? Government is main source of misinformation (or lies as I prefer to call it). Once censorship starts, there is no stopping it. You know that.
COVID-19 will be with us for a very long time. If everyone was vaccinated tomorrow, there will still be people suffering from it – don’t you understand that ? There will be “variants” forever. That is what a virus does – tries to survive through mutation.
I can only assume anyone taking horse medicine is simply desperate or scared.
“The drug has found a national audience in conservative circles. Between March and this month, Fox News hosts Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham promoted the use of ivermectin as an alternative covid treatment to millions of viewers on their prime-time shows. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) was suspended from YouTube in June for posting a video touting ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine as treatments for covid-19.” Washington Post August 21, 2021.
Ivermectin is a great formulation – for its intended recipients. We used it for decades to worm our horses. They preferred the apple flavor to the plain. There was a great big warning printed on each tube: “Not intended for human consumption” which we heeded, of course. It never occurred to us to deworm ourselves with it or use it to treat a virus. We know some folks who recently bought some ivermectin to battle covid. I’ve argued against their using it since there are no livestock at their house, to no avail. Neigh to horse meds for people! If you want to use it, call a veterinarian. (What ARE these people thinking?)
I have to hand it to these Conservative Whatever They Are folks…they have come up with some very creative ways to kill themselves off. Where did the idea of using animal wormer for Covid? Could the manufacturer have some kind of influence on Conservative Media Prostitutes (reporters) to give out this lie in order to increase their sales? Hmmmm….just wondering….?
Last night I read comments on WBRZ from the usual handful of racist conspiracy theorists that frequent the Disqus comment section (probably because it doesn’t appear to have ANY moderation). Under one of the stories about monoclonal antibodies, they made the predictable claims about how great it was that trump received that treatment and went further to promote it as a safe alternative to the “experimental” and “unapproved” vaccines. Now, I know I could easily pull up the FDA link to the actual letter showing that monoclonal antibodies are authorized under an identical EUA as the vaccines. But, experience has shown me that it won’t matter. They’ll come up with some absurd excuse to deny it and probably offer some ridiculously sketchy link to back them up… you know… anything to keep the argument going. After five years of this garbage, I’ve learned that I can do all this research for them (or my own misguided family members), but it will have no effect. It reminds me of that verse in the Bible about casting your pearls before swine, lol. So, at this point I’m tired of doing research to debunk someone’s lie. There are so many claims circulating now that are simply so ridiculous that they don’t deserve any real debate because it only serves to falsely convince those people that there is some sort of legitimacy to their claim.
SO, I won’t help them. For some people, I’ve said all that I have to say to them about this stuff. All I’m interesting in now is adding my voice to the crowd that opposes them. Eventually, they’ll get it… or get run over by it. Why waste a lot of effort on them at this point? I’ll reconsider if they want a sincere discussion… but I’m not holding my breath.
I had not heard about this off-label amateur Ivermectin treatment until I read this article. I mean… that’s just nuts! And if Carlson, Hannity and Ingraham’s employer hasn’t recognized the liability they assume from their hosts promoting this??? That could result in ugly litigation if someone dies from following their advice. Then again, I wouldn’t cry if someone sued them into bankruptcy. Hell, I probably wouldn’t even notice.
Are we trying to get rid of worms or covid? I am so confused! Yes, Zoe and “L” are two peas in a pod. But these anti-vaxxers and anti-mask crew are stifling my life!! Soon, they will be stifling their own lives when they aren’t allowed inside restaurants or not allowed to attend any function OR when their insurance premiums are hiked.
It’s beyond madness. These people tend to be psychologically incapable of admitting they’ve been wrong over and over (even few of them still claim it’s all a hoax) just like he who will not be named, so their narratives keep getting more contradictory and absurd. And the more they look like delusional wackos, the more they spout ludicrous blame on others, just like their savior in Maralago does. It’s unreal.
Hey Tom, I appreciate the callout although I disagree with your backhand slap. You may not accept my research, but that is what discussion is about; you rely on your sources (which I do not always agree), and I on mine. I have always admitted when I am shown to be incorrect in my facts – you know that because you do read my posts.
Personally, I note that many who post here take disagreement personally, rather than an intellectual challenge for discussion. I always felt that to resort to attacking those with whom you disagree indicates a severe lack of confidence in one’s own argument, or perhaps an inadequate intellectual capability. Disagree with reason, not insults.
For example, KP posts that I am an anti-vaxxer. Evidently reading comprehension is not a strong suit for this poster, as I clearly stated that I am, in fact vaccinated (although I have still managed to contract the Delta variety of virus and currently am in quarantine – likely catching from a patient in ICU). I merely stated that to get or refuse a vaccine is a personal choice and like freedom of speech, I strongly support that right. KP is more about protecting himself…get a vaccine, that is all you can do, and take your own precautions. It is not your right to dictate to others. You can always just stay home and avoid any possibility of exposure.
Then you have “Can’t Say”, who claims that “he who shall not be named” was pretty much in denial even though “he” is mostly responsible to get any vaccine out at all in such record time (normal development is 10+ years) but “he” is somehow opposed to vaccines. Thank God we did not have to rely on sleepy Joe (bet you are real proud of him now) to get a vaccine developed.
And Mr. Winham, “misinformation” is NOT exclusive to either side, both liberal and conservatives are more than guilty. I do not even like the term, but prefer “lie” which is what it is, especially when it comes from government.
“Vaccine doubters, mostly Republicans” ? Tom, every poll I have seen says the largest percentage on un-vaccinated people are minorities, specifically, black and Latino; well over half (who largely do not trust government). Last time I checked, they were largely Democrats. My personal observation from hospital patients is the same. That is like saying Democrats are more educated than Republicans when we all know that Democrat strongholds are in large population centers largely composed of minorities and Democratic run cities and largely uneducated poverty stricken populations.
Not sure about this “ivermectin” talk comes in. I think people are desperate and willing to try anything. I am vaccinated. I take all required precautions and yet, here I am, infected. The realty is this virus will go on for years to come, regardless of vaccines because the vaccine does NOT protect you, but may reduce seriousness and there WILL be versions after Delta. If you believe that 100% vaccines will eliminate virus or wearing a mask will save you, you have your head in the sand. We cannot live in fear, close business, limit travel, wear masks. not grade and educate children and hope to survive as a free society.
And Tom, my Dad gave me nickname which I will cherish till I die. As for you, I already told you I respect your reporting on bad and corrupt government in Louisiana (which is where I ran across your writing), and respect the courage it takes to expose same; not many would do so. Of course we do not often agree, but where is the fun in that ? I am not mad at you because we do not agree nor do I hold you in disdain. It is not your fault you are a Democrat; you were probably born into or perhaps just part of liberal press (90% liberal according to surveys I have seen) !
BTW, I am still waiting to see any defense of Democrat platform, policy etc. or for that matter, one positive thing Biden has done to improve this country besides try to destroy USA (if that is goal). No one in his right mind would have voted for Biden, only against Trump; and the folly in that is evident if you are watching current events.
Sweet Zoe, can you site your polls? Like, tell us the names of these polls you read and speak of?
I am very sorry you are quarantined. Truly. But, I will tell you what we are hearing from Trump and the far right politicians, our congress peeps. They say take horse worming meds! They do not trust science. They don’t understand infectious disease professionals. What they do understand is staying in power and making money.
What I think you don’t understand is how many Latinos and African Americans are Republicans. No, this is not a “political” debate, for “fun”. This is life or death for many.
You want to know what positive thing Biden has done? Infrastructure. Getting us out of a perpetual war. Saving millions of people with a vaccine plan! Yes, a plan! And the plan is working. It’s the ones who think they are invisible that don’t follow the plan.
And, yes, there will be worse variants. But, we, as a country can try our best to listen to the professionals instead of blindly following a con man. Read the history of this pathetic man, Trump. I highly recommend you do that.
Debating an issue is one thing. Not following rules (as in the BESE meeting) is quite another. Putting others lives at risk is insane and evil.
May God bless you and keep you safe.
And BTW, I am a woman!
…Uh Zoe, point of interest, I have read numerous times in the LouisiainaVoice Blog that Tom is a “reformed life-long Republican,” and have seen photographs of him taken proudly standing beside the Bush family. I really don’t think he was born into being a Democrat. He looked to be at least 40+ in those photographs.
Upgrade your research.
I did say “probably” but I am sure you missed that. I do not care which party Tom belongs to…it is not really relevant nor is the research to find out. My interest is people are liberal, conservative, Libertarian, socialist and those direct my points of comment. Thanks for reading Jeanette.
I wish once again to thank Tom for carrying on his comments, well beyond any reasonably and deserved retirement.
I also wish to give a double thumbs up to KARMARCAN’s comments with the exception that I have seen ( maybe it was YouTube) the exact words coming out of the various Fox Host’s mouth referencing the dewormer. To more fully supportive of KAMARCAN’S sentiments I have noted( I believe in this forum) that my writing & comments are not to be expected to be any more deserving of that of draft quality due to the waste of extensive time over months turned into years of researching and correcting similar outright misinformation.
It was just this type of misrepresentation that caused me to join groups like Public Affairs Research Council (PAR) various Chambers, the BBB, yes LABI, and even the Baton Rouge Press Club from where hopefully I could influence and question our would be leaders.
Today one only needs to listen to the comments of the (R) governor of Maryland with 80% adult vaccinated, and willing to accept refugees, on Meet The Press and then compare the comments of high school graduate: Rep Graves on local news to realize, that with his logic he would be against the GI bill following WWII, Social Security after the great depression, or NASA, during the space race….He prefers that Louisianians have extensive oil extractions skills rather than climate change solar/ wind or other, so that when oil use is curtailed…Well what is LA, going to be called, unprepared. Maybe he would rather talk about immigration, you know southern border, or gasp refugees, as LA in just the LAST TWO YEARS saw out migration of over 40K. It will take a lot more than a few concerned to get La to the position it should be, not bouncing off the ranking of 50th. but that was the very same truth when I started college nearly 50 years ago.
I feel bad for the horses who will go unwormed due to a lack of medication.
You sincerely can’t be this dumb? Or racist? Asking rhetorically. How much research have you done on mRNA vaccines? How did the test subjects fare? How many deaths have occurred thus far? And why are the hiding the CDC numbers? What did a CDC whistleblower just come out and say?
Since about 72% of the black population wants no part of this vaccine, you are obviously a racist. No surprises there.
How much research have you done, L? How many deaths? Do you even have a clue? Well, between December 2020 and July 19, 2021, there were 187 million who received the vaccine and there were precisely three deaths from blood clots directly linked to the vaccine. That comes to .000002 %. https://covid-101.org/science/how-many-people-have-died-from-the-vaccine-in-the-u-s/That's two/one hundred thousandth of a PERCENT! We have a higher death rate than that from the excitement of watching NASCAR or NFL football. How many are going to die from ingesting cattle dewormer? And your 72% of blacks not wanting the shot is for Great Britain, not the US. The statistics are different for this country. Here’s a link for you to read but try not to move your lips when you do: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/vaccination-rates-lag-communities-color-due-hesitancy-experts/story?id=77272753. In fact, the steepest rise in vaccinations was Hispanics (plus 16%) and blacks (plus 11%. The link I provided says the problem is not hesitancy but availability of the vaccine.
I fail to see how this post made anyone a racist but I can readily see how at least one troll is an idiot.
You are a piece of work, dude.
“How much research have you done on mRNA vaccines?”
…more or less, about the same as you… which is to say that neither of us possess enough information to publicly contradict the CDC or the worlds health community.
Lame
Lamentable
Languid
Lazy
Liar
Limited
Loathsome
Lonely
Loner
Loony
Loser
Loud
Loveless
Ludicrous
Lugubrious
Lunatic
Lurid
…Today’s self-descriptive words brought to you by the troll “L”.
“L,” here is a link you may find interesting for your “research.” It shows that blacks are leading whites in getting vaccinated by double digits. Just thought you’d like to know. Nah, maybe not.
https://democraticunderground.com/100215778473
Great article and informative comments! My wife is worried about our Country and the Trumpites. I am not. ALL communication is based upon three personal attributes we all have.1. Fear 2. Ignorance 3. Prejudice. Education can help lessen the dangerous results of 1& 2. 3. Much fun! Very unpredictable because we are all different. I believe (not a fact but a learned observation) that we as a civilization are victims of our success/survival. It is a “numbers” gambit, We are who we are. Prejudice? of course, we are all prejudiced, genes, environment ,etc. The Third Reich. Market/business plans. Church Groups. Obamacare/medical or life insurance. We learn, we adjust, and egomaniacs like Trump and certain elements of our political groups, mostly F.ing Republicans, communicate by fear and ignorance. Truth matters. Keep learning and keep loving. ron thompson
I have heard several first hand accounts of people in my area who tested positive for covid. They took the proper dosage of ivomectrine and they got well in 2 days. I am skeptical of ivomectrine, but evidently it works very well. The key is to take it in the early stages of covid. Could be that covid is a parasite and not a virus. Think about it….
Well think about this. I have first hand accounts of a friend who mistook his Preparation H for toothpaste and had to eat through a straw for two weeks. But he did have farts that were minty fresh.
Zoe, because if your tiresome constant repetition of conservative lies, I usually ignore you. But your holier than thou “I have always admitted when I am shown to be incorrect in my facts – you know that because you do read my posts.” is a lie by a lying teller of lies. You have repeatedly been told the truth by many people on this blog and refused to accept the truth when smacked in the face with it.
One of your more obvious lies is your pathetic fixation on the so called Democrat platform. Party platforms are created during the party convention before the election. What you have was created by Republicans, for Republicans, months before the Democrat convention. It is filled with astoundingly disgusting false positions to create hatred of Democrats. It so disturbing that the Republican propaganda machine has convinced millions of people like you that Democrats could actually support such horrible positions. I told you this in different words last summer but, as usual, you didn’t believe the truth or admit that your “facts” are wrong.
I will now return to giving you the [non] attention that you deserve.