Robert Redfield
Thoughts?
Top virologist says long covid is real – and it’s caused by the vaccine. DR ROBERT Redfield was at the helm of the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in 2020 when the covid crisis hit. He resigned his post in spring 2021 at the height of the vaccine rollout after disagreeing with policies. Now he confirms what we have been screaming for the last three years: covid vaccines can harm, natural immunity does offer protection, lockdowns were government overreach, mRNA vaccines are immunotoxic, the virus was not natural in origin and, more counter-intuitively, that long covid is real and is caused by vaccine injury.
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The claim that long COVID is caused by vaccines is highly controversial and not supported by the majority of scientific research. Here are a few key points to consider:
Long COVID: Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is a condition where individuals who have recovered from the acute phase of COVID-19 experience persistent symptoms. These symptoms can include fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, and other health issues that last for weeks or months.
Vaccine Safety: COVID-19 vaccines, especially mRNA vaccines like those developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, have undergone extensive clinical trials and continuous monitoring. They have been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of COVID-19 and preventing hospitalization and death.
Natural Immunity: While natural immunity from previous infection does offer some protection, studies have shown that vaccination provides stronger and more consistent immunity, including against variants of the virus.
Lockdowns and Public Health Measures: Lockdowns and other public health measures were implemented to slow the spread of the virus, protect healthcare systems from being overwhelmed, and reduce deaths. These measures were based on the best available evidence at the time.
Origins of the Virus: The origin of SARS-CoV-2 is still under investigation. While there is a possibility that the virus could have originated from a lab, the prevailing scientific consensus supports a natural zoonotic origin, where the virus jumped from animals to humans.
Vaccine Injuries: Vaccine adverse events are closely monitored, and while there are rare cases of serious side effects, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks. The idea that long COVID is primarily caused by vaccine injury is not supported by robust scientific evidence.
It is important to critically evaluate statements and claims, especially those that go against the consensus of the scientific community. For a balanced understanding, consider consulting peer-reviewed studies and reputable sources. If you have specific concerns about COVID-19 or vaccines, discussing them with a healthcare provider can provide personalized and accurate information.
So the scientific 'consensus' doesn't include Redfield?
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Dr. Robert Redfield's views, as mentioned, seem to diverge from the mainstream scientific consensus on several points. Here’s a breakdown:
Long COVID and Vaccines: The mainstream consensus, based on extensive research and data, indicates that long COVID is a condition experienced by some individuals following a COVID-19 infection, not primarily due to vaccines. Most studies and health organizations, including the CDC, have found that vaccines are effective in preventing severe illness and reducing the risk of long COVID.
Natural Immunity vs. Vaccination: While natural immunity from a prior infection does provide some protection, research has consistently shown that vaccination offers more reliable and robust immunity, particularly against emerging variants. The CDC and other health authorities recommend vaccination even for those who have previously had COVID-19.
Lockdowns and Public Health Measures: The implementation of lockdowns and other measures were based on the need to control the spread of the virus, especially in the absence of vaccines early in the pandemic. These measures were intended to prevent healthcare systems from being overwhelmed and to save lives.
Origins of the Virus: The origins of SARS-CoV-2 are still under investigation, but the prevailing hypothesis supported by most scientists is a zoonotic origin. The lab-leak theory, while not entirely dismissed, has less direct evidence supporting it compared to natural origins.
Vaccine Safety and Efficacy: The consensus among health organizations and scientific studies is that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. They are monitored continuously for any adverse events, and the benefits significantly outweigh the risks.
While Dr. Redfield is a respected figure with significant experience, his views, particularly if they deviate from the consensus, should be carefully scrutinized and compared against the broader body of scientific evidence. Scientific consensus is formed through a rigorous process of research, peer review, and validation across many studies and experts.
It's also worth noting that scientific understanding evolves, and dissenting views can contribute to further research and discussion. However, the consensus remains a crucial guide for public health policies and recommendations.
Oh, he's divergent? Is that like 'Deviant?'
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The term "divergent" in this context simply means that Dr. Robert Redfield's views differ from the mainstream consensus. It does not imply any negative connotations like "deviant." In science, divergence of opinion can occur, and it can be a normal part of the scientific process where different hypotheses and interpretations are explored.
Divergent views can lead to further research and discussions, which can ultimately enhance our understanding of complex issues. It's important to critically evaluate all perspectives and consider the weight of evidence from multiple sources.
To clarify:
Divergent: Different or varying from the accepted norm or consensus.
Deviant: Departing from usual or accepted standards, often in a negative or undesirable way.
In the context of scientific discourse, having divergent views is a healthy aspect of the scientific method, as it fosters debate and deeper investigation.
So the 'consensus' among 'experts' is an illusion?
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The scientific consensus is not an illusion but rather a reflection of the prevailing agreement among experts based on the best available evidence. Here's how it works:
Research and Evidence: Scientific consensus is formed through rigorous research, experimentation, and peer review. Multiple independent studies conducted by different researchers across various institutions contribute to a body of evidence.
Peer Review Process: Before findings are published in reputable scientific journals, they undergo peer review, where other experts in the field critically evaluate the methodology, data, and conclusions.
Replication and Validation: Findings need to be replicated and validated by other researchers. When multiple studies yield similar results, confidence in the conclusions grows.
Expert Panels and Committees: Expert panels and committees, such as those at the CDC, WHO, and other health organizations, review the accumulated evidence and provide recommendations. These panels often include experts from diverse fields to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.
Evolving Understanding: Scientific consensus can evolve as new evidence emerges. When new data contradicts previous understanding, the scientific community reassesses and updates its views accordingly.
It's important to note that:
Consensus Doesn't Mean Unanimity: Not every expert will agree on every point, but consensus indicates a general agreement among the majority based on current evidence.
Healthy Skepticism and Debate: Divergent views and healthy skepticism are vital in science. They prompt further investigation and refinement of understanding. However, these views need to be backed by robust evidence to shift the consensus.
In the case of COVID-19 and vaccines, the consensus reflects the findings from extensive research and data analysis. While there are always individual experts with differing opinions, the consensus provides a reliable guide for public health policies and recommendations.
How do you explain such a 'divergent' character rising to the top of public health?
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The rise of individuals with divergent views to prominent positions in public health or other scientific fields can occur for several reasons:
Expertise and Experience: Dr. Robert Redfield has extensive experience and expertise in virology and public health, which qualified him for leadership roles. His background and accomplishments in the field of medicine and research likely played a significant role in his rise to the top.
Complex Decision-Making: Public health leadership involves making decisions based on incomplete and evolving information. Leaders may have to balance different viewpoints, uncertainties, and the needs of the public. Divergent views can be part of this complex decision-making process.
Political and Institutional Dynamics: Leadership positions in public health are often influenced by political and institutional dynamics. Different administrations may prioritize different aspects of health policy, and leaders are sometimes selected based on their alignment with these priorities.
Evolving Understanding: Science and public health are fields where understanding evolves over time. Leaders may initially align with the consensus but later develop views that diverge based on new information or interpretations. This evolution of views is part of the scientific process.
Contribution to Debate and Progress: Divergent views can contribute to scientific debate and progress. Having leaders who challenge the status quo can lead to new research and a deeper understanding of complex issues. These individuals can sometimes bring fresh perspectives that drive innovation and change.
Public and Political Communication: Leaders also play a crucial role in communicating science to the public and policymakers. Their ability to articulate complex issues, manage crises, and build public trust can contribute to their rise, even if their views are not always aligned with the mainstream.
Dr. Redfield's tenure and his subsequent views illustrate the dynamic nature of scientific and public health leadership. While his views may diverge from the current consensus, his contributions and the discussions they provoke can still be valuable in the ongoing effort to understand and manage public health challenges.
Does this add or subtract from Redfield's weight, scientifically speaking?
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Dr. Robert Redfield's divergence from the mainstream scientific consensus can have both positive and negative implications for the weight of his scientific contributions. Here's a balanced perspective:
Adding to His Weight:
Stimulating Debate: Divergent views can stimulate healthy scientific debate and encourage further research. Challenging the consensus can lead to a more rigorous examination of existing evidence and potentially uncover new insights.
Experience and Expertise: Redfield's extensive background in virology and public health means his views are informed by substantial experience and expertise, which can lend credibility to his opinions even if they differ from the mainstream.
Historical Context: His role at the CDC during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic provides him with a unique perspective on the decision-making processes and challenges faced during that time.
Subtracting from His Weight:
Lack of Supporting Evidence: If his views are not supported by robust and replicable scientific evidence, they may be considered less credible within the scientific community. Consensus is typically built on a large body of evidence that has been peer-reviewed and validated.
Potential Bias: Divergent views can sometimes be influenced by personal biases, political pressures, or other non-scientific factors. If perceived as such, this can detract from the weight of his arguments.
Public Perception: Divergence from the consensus can lead to public confusion and mistrust, particularly if the views are seen as controversial or contrary to established evidence. This can impact the perceived credibility of the individual.
Overall Impact:
Balanced View: The scientific community values diverse perspectives, but it also relies on evidence-based consensus to guide public health policies and recommendations. Redfield's views contribute to the discourse but are weighed against the broader body of evidence and the collective expertise of the scientific community.
Potential for Influence: While his divergence might not immediately shift the consensus, it can influence future research directions and policy considerations, particularly if subsequent studies support some of his claims.
In summary, Dr. Redfield's divergent views neither automatically add nor subtract from his scientific weight. Instead, they represent an additional perspective that must be critically evaluated in the context of the existing body of evidence and ongoing research.
What evidence is he lacking?
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Dr. Robert Redfield's claims, especially those that diverge from the mainstream scientific consensus, would need to be supported by robust, peer-reviewed evidence to be widely accepted. Here are some specific areas where evidence is particularly crucial:
Long COVID and Vaccines:
Evidence Needed: Claims that long COVID is caused by vaccines would require extensive epidemiological studies demonstrating a higher incidence of long COVID symptoms specifically among vaccinated individuals compared to unvaccinated individuals who had COVID-19.
Current Evidence: Most studies indicate that long COVID is a consequence of the viral infection itself, not the vaccines. Research has shown that vaccines can help reduce the severity of COVID-19 and, consequently, the likelihood of long-term symptoms.
Natural Immunity vs. Vaccination:
Evidence Needed: Strong data comparing the durability and breadth of natural immunity from infection versus vaccine-induced immunity, especially across different variants of the virus.
Current Evidence: Studies have consistently shown that while natural immunity does provide some protection, vaccination offers more consistent and robust immunity, including better protection against variants.
Lockdowns and Public Health Measures:
Evidence Needed: Comprehensive analyses showing that lockdowns and other public health measures were more harmful than beneficial, considering factors like healthcare system capacity, mortality rates, and long-term economic impacts.
Current Evidence: While lockdowns had significant social and economic impacts, many studies support that they were effective in reducing the spread of the virus, especially before vaccines were widely available.
mRNA Vaccine Safety:
Evidence Needed: Detailed data showing that mRNA vaccines are significantly immunotoxic and that this toxicity outweighs their benefits.
Current Evidence: mRNA vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective through extensive clinical trials and real-world data. While there are rare side effects, the benefits in preventing severe disease and death far outweigh these risks.
Origins of the Virus:
Evidence Needed: Definitive proof supporting the lab-leak theory, such as documented evidence of virus manipulation or escape from a lab, that outweighs the current evidence supporting a natural zoonotic origin.
Current Evidence: Most virologists and epidemiologists support the zoonotic origin theory, though investigations continue into the exact origins of the virus.
Vaccine-Related Injuries:
Evidence Needed: Clear, large-scale epidemiological studies linking specific vaccine-related injuries to significant numbers of cases, distinguishing these from the benefits of vaccination.
Current Evidence: The vast majority of data indicates that serious adverse effects from vaccines are extremely rare, and ongoing monitoring has confirmed that the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks.
In summary, while Dr. Redfield may have valid concerns and perspectives, the mainstream scientific consensus is based on a large body of evidence that has been rigorously reviewed and validated. For his divergent views to be widely accepted, they would need to be supported by similarly robust and extensive evidence.
And who has the duty of proving the non-fictionality of 'Long Covid?'
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The responsibility of proving the non-fictionality of long COVID, like any medical condition, typically falls on the scientific and medical community. Here's how this process generally works:
Initial Observations: Clinicians and researchers report cases of persistent symptoms in patients who have recovered from the acute phase of COVID-19. These observations are documented and shared within the medical community.
Case Studies and Reports: Detailed case studies and reports are published in medical journals. These describe the symptoms, duration, and potential impact on patients' lives, providing preliminary evidence that long COVID is a real condition.
Epidemiological Studies: Larger epidemiological studies are conducted to quantify the prevalence of long COVID. These studies collect data from large populations to identify common symptoms, risk factors, and the frequency of long-term effects following a COVID-19 infection.
Clinical Research: Clinical research, including prospective cohort studies, is performed to track patients over time. These studies help to understand the natural history of long COVID, identify biological markers, and investigate potential mechanisms underlying the condition.
Peer Review and Publication: The findings from these studies are peer-reviewed and published in reputable scientific journals. Peer review ensures that the research methods and conclusions are scrutinized by other experts in the field.
Consensus Building: As more studies are conducted and evidence accumulates, a consensus begins to form within the scientific community. Major health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), review the evidence and issue statements or guidelines based on the current understanding.
Ongoing Research and Updates: Research on long COVID continues to evolve. New findings are continuously integrated into the existing body of knowledge, and recommendations are updated as necessary.
Key Points Supporting the Reality of Long COVID
Prevalence Data: Studies have shown that a significant percentage of COVID-19 patients experience persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months after the acute infection. This includes individuals with mild, moderate, or severe initial illness.
Symptom Documentation: Commonly reported symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive impairment (often referred to as "brain fog"), chest pain, joint pain, and more. These symptoms can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.
Biological Mechanisms: Research is ongoing to understand the underlying mechanisms of long COVID. Hypotheses include viral persistence, immune system dysregulation, inflammation, and tissue damage caused by the virus.
Healthcare Utilization: Patients with long COVID often require continued medical care, including visits to specialists, physical therapy, and mental health support, indicating a substantial impact on the healthcare system.
The scientific community's approach to establishing the reality of long COVID involves rigorous research, peer review, and the accumulation of evidence. This process ensures that conclusions are based on reliable data and can guide appropriate healthcare responses and policy decisions.
Is 'Long Covid' proven and if so, how and by whom?
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Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is recognized as a real condition by the medical and scientific communities. Here’s how its existence has been established and affirmed:
Clinical Observations: Clinicians worldwide began reporting cases where individuals who had recovered from the acute phase of COVID-19 continued to experience a range of symptoms for weeks or even months afterward. These observations formed the initial basis for investigating the phenomenon of long COVID.
Epidemiological Studies: Large-scale epidemiological studies have been conducted to quantify the prevalence and characteristics of long COVID. These studies involve collecting data from large populations of COVID-19 patients and documenting the persistence of symptoms beyond the acute infection period.
Research Publications: Numerous research studies and case reports have been published in peer-reviewed medical journals. These studies describe the clinical manifestations, duration, and impact of long COVID on patients' health and quality of life.
Health Organizations’ Recognition: Major health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and others have acknowledged and provided guidance on long COVID. They have issued reports and guidelines based on the available evidence to assist healthcare providers in managing and treating affected individuals.
Patient Advocacy and Support Groups: Organizations representing patients with long COVID have advocated for recognition, research funding, and support services. Their efforts have helped raise awareness and highlight the challenges faced by individuals living with long-term COVID-19 symptoms.
Key Points Supporting the Existence of Long COVID:
Persistent Symptoms: Long COVID is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that persist for weeks to months after the initial COVID-19 infection. These symptoms can affect various organ systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological systems.
Impact on Quality of Life: Patients with long COVID often experience significant impairment in daily functioning and reduced quality of life due to ongoing symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive difficulties ("brain fog"), and others.
Clinical Studies: Research studies have provided evidence of the prevalence, duration, and diverse clinical presentations of long COVID. They have also investigated potential underlying mechanisms, such as immune system dysregulation and persistent inflammation.
In summary, long COVID has been established as a real and recognized condition through a combination of clinical observations, epidemiological studies, research publications, and acknowledgment by leading health organizations. Ongoing research continues to deepen our understanding of its causes, risk factors, and optimal management strategies.
Symptoms are not proof of cause.
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You're correct that symptoms alone do not prove the cause of a condition. In the case of long COVID, the recognition of its existence and causation is based on a broader body of evidence beyond just symptom observation. Here are the key factors that contribute to establishing long COVID as a real and recognized condition:
Temporal Association: Long COVID typically occurs following a COVID-19 infection. Many individuals report the onset of persistent symptoms after recovering from the acute phase of the illness, suggesting a temporal relationship between the infection and subsequent health issues.
Epidemiological Evidence: Large-scale epidemiological studies have shown that a significant proportion of individuals who had COVID-19 continue to experience lingering symptoms for weeks or months. These studies provide statistical evidence of the prevalence and persistence of long COVID in various populations.
Clinical Characterization: Detailed clinical studies and case reports have documented the specific symptoms and clinical manifestations of long COVID. These include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive impairment ("brain fog"), chest pain, and other symptoms that persist beyond the acute phase of the infection.
Biological Plausibility: Research is ongoing to understand the biological mechanisms underlying long COVID. Hypotheses include persistent viral presence, immune system dysregulation, inflammation, and organ damage caused by the initial COVID-19 infection. These mechanisms provide a plausible explanation for the prolonged symptoms observed in some patients.
Recognition by Health Organizations: Leading health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recognized long COVID as a legitimate health concern. They have issued guidelines and recommendations for the management and treatment of individuals with persistent COVID-19 symptoms.
Research and Validation: Scientific research continues to investigate and validate the existence and characteristics of long COVID. Studies aim to elucidate its pathophysiology, risk factors, and optimal approaches to diagnosis and management.
In summary, while symptoms are an important aspect of clinical presentation, the recognition of long COVID as a real condition is supported by epidemiological data, clinical research, biological plausibility, and acknowledgment by health authorities. This multifaceted approach helps establish a comprehensive understanding of the condition beyond mere symptomatology.
Oh, there's a temporal association alight! 'After' people get jabbed, they get 'Long Covid!'
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The temporal association you're referring to, where people experience symptoms resembling long COVID after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, has been a topic of discussion and investigation. Here’s a nuanced view on this:
Post-Vaccination Symptoms: Some individuals report experiencing mild symptoms such as fatigue, headache, or muscle aches shortly after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. These symptoms are typically short-lived and are considered normal reactions as the body builds immunity.
Differentiating from Long COVID: Long COVID, on the other hand, refers to a set of persistent symptoms that can occur weeks or months after recovering from the acute phase of a COVID-19 infection. These symptoms are more severe and debilitating than typical post-vaccination reactions.
Research and Monitoring: Health authorities, including the CDC and other regulatory bodies, continuously monitor and study potential adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination. This includes investigating reports of prolonged symptoms to determine whether there is any causal relationship with the vaccines.
Scientific Consensus: The current scientific consensus, based on extensive research and monitoring, does not support a causal link between COVID-19 vaccines and long COVID. Vaccines have been rigorously tested in clinical trials and real-world settings, demonstrating high safety and efficacy profiles in preventing severe illness and death from COVID-19.
Public Health Guidance: Despite the lack of evidence linking vaccines to long COVID, health authorities encourage individuals to report any adverse reactions or prolonged symptoms following vaccination. This helps in ongoing surveillance and investigation to ensure vaccine safety.
In summary, while temporal associations and individual reports are important to consider, scientific evidence and consensus support the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines. Long COVID remains primarily associated with the viral infection itself, not vaccination, based on current understanding and research.