More letters for Dec. 1
Civil discourse appreciated
Thank you for the editorial by Dr. Harris Pastides on civil discourse. As an advocate of nuclear energy I frequently encounter, on both sides of the debate, persons who seem to be more intent on scoring points than on illuminating the issues. Thoughtful discourse on the big issues is seldom seen in our society today. We have grown accustomed to watching opinionated personalities masquerading as news journalists. Unfortunately, they are featured on so-called news programs where the content often includes people being rude for the sake of ratings or to appeal to a particular political persuasion.
Watching adults behaving this way cannot be setting the example we all want for impressionable children. We should be emphasizing the qualities Dr. Pastides extols in his article. Skepticism is healthy in any debate, essential in science, and satisfying that skepticism helps us move forward. It seems though that in our politically charged environment we have allowed skepticism to transform into vitriol, with which there is no compromise. We all need to lay down our poison pens.
Dr. Pastides is to be congratulated for his initiative, although it is sad in a very real way that such an initiative is necessary.
Clint Wolfe
Aiken
Risk factors with H1N1 vaccines
This week, my grandchildren came home from elementary school with a fact sheet about the H1N1 vaccine they will be giving in the schools now and a form to allow or not allow your child to be given one. When I read the fact sheet my concerns increased in regard to the safety of all children who will take the shot.
Here are a few facts that I am familiar with:
1. It has not been tested long enough to say it is safe.
2. The sheet tells us that the vaccine contains thimerosal, but doesn't state that it's mercury, the second most toxic element on earth. The H1N1 has 25 micrograms of mercury, way beyond the amount in parts per billion that the EPA allows in our drinking water. There are also other toxins in the vaccine.
3. The facts say there are no studies showing a connection between thimerosal and autism. They then refer to a 2004 Institute of Medicine study that refutes the claim once and for all. Even the former director of the Center for Disease Control says that study was flawed and should not be used as proof of this. There are numerous studies showing a connection, done by reputable scientists and doctors in peer reviewed journals.
4. The information further states not to take the vaccine if you are allergic to thimerosal, eggs, etc. However, everyone is allergic to thimerosal and the other toxins in the vaccine. They threaten the immune system's ability to function properly.
5. The facts let us know that risk of vaccine injury is very small. However, there are already hundreds of severe reactions that have been filed on special forms, including seizures following vaccination.
6. The facts state that bad reactions occur within minutes or hours after the shot. This is not true. Reactions can occur days, weeks, or possibly months later.
7. Lastly, the sheet comments about the filing of a claim if vaccine injury occurs. However, it doesn't tell us that there will be no possibility with the H1N1 vaccine to claim compensation for serious injury because the government has given complete immunity to the vaccine makers if such an event happens.
Maurine Meleck
North Augusta