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Let's Rename Swine Flu As "Colbert Flu"
Bruce Perens writes "The World Health Organization will no longer refer to Virus A(H1N1) as 'Swine Flu,' citing ethnic reactions to 'swine,' for example among middle-eastern cultures who feel that swine are unclean. Or, is it because meat packers are concerned that people might stop eating pork in fear of the virus? WHO suggests that the public select a new name for the virus. I suggest that we all start calling it The Colbert Flu, after the comedian and fake pundit who asked his audience to stuff a NASA poll so that a Space Station module would be named after him. What can we do to make the name stick?"
Screw accuracy and mitigating fears, "Martian Death Flu" is what this world needs.
How is it bigotry to suggest that American hospitals should be used for the Americans who pay for them?
You don't get out much, do you? I'd suggest that if you've not yet travelled outside the country and became ill or broke a leg (and then discovered how most industrialised countries distribute health care), you talk to the average Canadian or European visitor who came to the US and did the same.
When you're done comparing notes, chances are high that you'll find yourself enlightened, embarrassed, or both.
If I broke my leg in Canada or Europe, then I would pay the bill and submit it for reimbursement to my American insurance company, to whom I pay premiums every month.
'cause, ya know, I have traveled outside this country and done exactly that.
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