If you are someone who "warns" people of the dangers of COVID on social media

[Anonymous]

Stop fcking taking your sick kids out in public! Or at least put a GD make on them.

I was making a Target return and a mom came in with her sick kid. He was visibly and audibly sick. His face was flushed and sweaty and he was hacking all over the store up front. His coughing was so violent that he gagged a few times.

They were just doing normal shopping, too. He was picking out a Gingerbread village from the front of the store (and hacking all over them b/c he wasn't covering his mouth, either).

I'm almost at the point where I want to start recording and shaming these moms. This is like the 3rd or 4th time recently that I've been out and about and encountered an extremely ill kid.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I'm at the live and let live phase of this. I don't understand people playing with their long term health, but I also realize people draw different conclusions and public health messaging has not exactly been stellar. I'm not posting any warnings to people, and only ever discuss it on this health board from time to time. I know people judge my family for masking, but oh well, it's not like I'm going to change because of them.

I do hope we get 2nd gen vaccines that are more sterilizing or that this liver drug touted by Univ of Cambridge and used off brand actually can help prevent the disease. I'd love to get back to some old ways of life, but fully acknowledge it's not all going to be like it was. Climate change means more dramatic life changes and sadly, pandemics, so I'm trying to teach my kids resiliency, kindness, and most of all to love life and being a kid as much as possible.

What does it mean to you for a person to be "playing with their long-term health"?

One could argue anyone who gets into a car is "playing with death". It's all a risk-benefit calculation. If it's masks you're concerned with, wearing a mask is a different experience for different people. I buy that some people truly aren't bothered by them. They are really uncomfortable for me, and I know for many people. I'm willing to and do wear one in limited situations, but not for a full day of work.

I'm talking about people who understand airborne transmission but are currently taking no precautions in terms of shared air. The more we learn about Covid, the more concerned I get for the population in general, even those who haven't been infected. From neurological problems, to blood clots, vulnerability to other infections post-Covid, reduced sperm counts, brain fog, the social and economic impact of Long Covid, MI in the young, etc. It's very concerning and is highly likely to have a long term impact on all of us. For instance from a reproductive perspective, if someone's DD doesn't get it, but 80% of males in her dating pool have dramatically reduced sperm from Covid infection on top of all the already dramatic drop in sperm pre-Covid, then we have a problem. I think many are betting on all these issues to self resolve, and perhaps they will, but hope is not a plan. I realize people are tired of it, and I think sociologically people just hit their threshold and move on at various points, often clustered fairly together in specific cohorts. I don't think individuals are to blame. I do think we have a society level problem though.

What specific precautions do you expect people to take?

Basic self preservation?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I think many are hypochondriacs who don’t understand basic math or statistics or what actually supports good health (such as exercising, diet, being outside, social connections, etc)

Many are fat and out of shape. They might drink alcohol regularly or be on prescription medication. This is all much more dangerous to the health of a non-elderly person than Covid. I find it strange.

Actually a lot of previously healthy people now have long Covid, and many people are also disabled from it. I'm not on social media posting about precautions, but it's frustrating when people act like Covid is nothing.

It's interesting- I personally know dozens of people who have had Covid, but I don't know a single person who has long Covid. When I hear people say that long Covid is common, I just don't see it.

There’s entirely too broad of a definition of “long COVID.” It includes any symptoms at least a month after initial infection. Well, if you’ve ever been actually sick with anything, you know it’s possible and not even uncommon to have coughing and congestion for a good long while after an illness. I coughed for about 6 weeks with Covid and that was my only symptom after the initial infection, but by some definitions I had “long Covid.” And then it also includes really vague, non-specific symptoms that could be anything, could be unrelated, or could be psychosomatic like “fatigue,” “headaches,” and “brain fog,” whatever that is …

It does seem like real, post-viral symptoms were more common with early infections in 2020 especially spring/summer 2020 with the more serious strains as opposed to now where we have vaccines (even though imperfect) and more treatments.

Right, and plenty of the symptoms can be explained by other health issues brought on by living in a stressful time. We're not talking about people bleeding from their eyeballs. Depression, weight gain, drinking too much, not exercising, were issues for a lot of people during the pandemic. So, you have Covid and feel "fatigue" some weeks later. Is it long Covid, or lack of exercise and too much bourbon every night? Who knows?

You are fortunate you don't have long term health issues but it's sad you have no concern or empathy for others. I have long term health issues, never drink or smoke and exercise... so sometimes it's just the bad luck of the genetics. Not everyone did something to get their health issues. Covid hasn't been that stressful. You clearly haven't had any real problems or bad things happen if you consider covid that stressful.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Stop fcking taking your sick kids out in public! Or at least put a GD make on them.

I was making a Target return and a mom came in with her sick kid. He was visibly and audibly sick. His face was flushed and sweaty and he was hacking all over the store up front. His coughing was so violent that he gagged a few times.

They were just doing normal shopping, too. He was picking out a Gingerbread village from the front of the store (and hacking all over them b/c he wasn't covering his mouth, either).

I'm almost at the point where I want to start recording and shaming these moms. This is like the 3rd or 4th time recently that I've been out and about and encountered an extremely ill kid.

What is sad is how unimportant the kids are to this parent if they'd drag them out sick. Its one thing for medication, its another for regular shopping.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:So basically, DCUM and this forum in particular. I think your answer is in your question.

No, actually I'm referring to other sites (FB/Instagram/Twitter).

Occasionally people I know will pronounce that people should "take COVID seriously". And I'm like, okay, what does that mean to you? Are you avoiding all holiday gatherings this year? It affects my personal interactions with them (e.g. I'd otherwise invite them to indoor events/activities but don't feel like being judged).

And on Twitter there seem to be some people who literally post snarky comments about people not being worried enough about COVID. I don't know if these are bots or just very bored people. It's just perplexing to me. I don't understand what their expectation is.

As someone who is cautious about covid, I recommend you still invite people who seem cautious, but send a follow up text saying, "I understand if you are still being cautious about covid and don't want to come, but just wanted to give you the option in case you feel comfortable."

My friend invited me to her indoor wedding, I declined, she said she wasn't surprised but just wanted to invite me in case I felt comfortable.

I had friends who weren't inviting me to small outdoor backyard hang outs because they thought I wouldn't come, but I would have gone and worn a mask. Indoor holiday parties? Not going.

Indoor gatherings can also be done somewhat safely. We gathered with family at T-giving. Asked everyone to be extra careful for 4-5 days prior (ie. mask up when indoors around everyone outside your household, if flying wear a KN95,etc) and everyone tested upon arrival. We did that due to 2 extremely vulnerable family members. Everyone was happy to do it, if it meant we could gather as a family. We rented a large home, had groceries delivered and had an amazing 5-7 days together. Sure, we could have ended up sick, but we took many steps to avoid that (agree it's not 100%, but it's better than just showing up). So there is alot that can happen between "living a la 2019" and masking everywhere and never seeing anyone outside your immediate household.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:So basically, DCUM and this forum in particular. I think your answer is in your question.

No, actually I'm referring to other sites (FB/Instagram/Twitter).

Occasionally people I know will pronounce that people should "take COVID seriously". And I'm like, okay, what does that mean to you? Are you avoiding all holiday gatherings this year? It affects my personal interactions with them (e.g. I'd otherwise invite them to indoor events/activities but don't feel like being judged).

And on Twitter there seem to be some people who literally post snarky comments about people not being worried enough about COVID. I don't know if these are bots or just very bored people. It's just perplexing to me. I don't understand what their expectation is.

As someone who is cautious about covid, I recommend you still invite people who seem cautious, but send a follow up text saying, "I understand if you are still being cautious about covid and don't want to come, but just wanted to give you the option in case you feel comfortable."

My friend invited me to her indoor wedding, I declined, she said she wasn't surprised but just wanted to invite me in case I felt comfortable.

I had friends who weren't inviting me to small outdoor backyard hang outs because they thought I wouldn't come, but I would have gone and worn a mask. Indoor holiday parties? Not going.

You would have worn a mask to an outdoor gathering, now in 2023 with all th vaccines etc?

I'm not surprised you weren't invited, unless you have some serious health issue

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Stop fcking taking your sick kids out in public! Or at least put a GD make on them.

I was making a Target return and a mom came in with her sick kid. He was visibly and audibly sick. His face was flushed and sweaty and he was hacking all over the store up front. His coughing was so violent that he gagged a few times.

They were just doing normal shopping, too. He was picking out a Gingerbread village from the front of the store (and hacking all over them b/c he wasn't covering his mouth, either).

I'm almost at the point where I want to start recording and shaming these moms. This is like the 3rd or 4th time recently that I've been out and about and encountered an extremely ill kid.

What is sad is how unimportant the kids are to this parent if they'd drag them out sick. Its one thing for medication, its another for regular shopping.

We've made it so much worse for kids. It is now acceptable for very sick kids to stay at school, ensuring healthy kids get it too. It's madness. Schools are having to call some parents multiple times to take their kids home. The lack of sick leave is a massive issue, but this is not okay either.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I think many are hypochondriacs who don’t understand basic math or statistics or what actually supports good health (such as exercising, diet, being outside, social connections, etc)

Many are fat and out of shape. They might drink alcohol regularly or be on prescription medication. This is all much more dangerous to the health of a non-elderly person than Covid. I find it strange.

Actually a lot of previously healthy people now have long Covid, and many people are also disabled from it. I'm not on social media posting about precautions, but it's frustrating when people act like Covid is nothing.

It's interesting- I personally know dozens of people who have had Covid, but I don't know a single person who has long Covid. When I hear people say that long Covid is common, I just don't see it.

My husband has it. So I do see it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:So basically, DCUM and this forum in particular. I think your answer is in your question.

No, actually I'm referring to other sites (FB/Instagram/Twitter).

Occasionally people I know will pronounce that people should "take COVID seriously". And I'm like, okay, what does that mean to you? Are you avoiding all holiday gatherings this year? It affects my personal interactions with them (e.g. I'd otherwise invite them to indoor events/activities but don't feel like being judged).

And on Twitter there seem to be some people who literally post snarky comments about people not being worried enough about COVID. I don't know if these are bots or just very bored people. It's just perplexing to me. I don't understand what their expectation is.

As someone who is cautious about covid, I recommend you still invite people who seem cautious, but send a follow up text saying, "I understand if you are still being cautious about covid and don't want to come, but just wanted to give you the option in case you feel comfortable."

My friend invited me to her indoor wedding, I declined, she said she wasn't surprised but just wanted to invite me in case I felt comfortable.

I had friends who weren't inviting me to small outdoor backyard hang outs because they thought I wouldn't come, but I would have gone and worn a mask. Indoor holiday parties? Not going.

You would have worn a mask to an outdoor gathering, now in 2023 with all th vaccines etc?

I'm not surprised you weren't invited, unless you have some serious health issue

DP - if it's going to be crowded, a mask is a good idea for those who choose it. Sad that piece of 3M foam prevents you from seeing this person's attendance as having value.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I think many are hypochondriacs who don’t understand basic math or statistics or what actually supports good health (such as exercising, diet, being outside, social connections, etc)

Many are fat and out of shape. They might drink alcohol regularly or be on prescription medication. This is all much more dangerous to the health of a non-elderly person than Covid. I find it strange.

Actually a lot of previously healthy people now have long Covid, and many people are also disabled from it. I'm not on social media posting about precautions, but it's frustrating when people act like Covid is nothing.

It's interesting- I personally know dozens of people who have had Covid, but I don't know a single person who has long Covid. When I hear people say that long Covid is common, I just don't see it.

There’s entirely too broad of a definition of “long COVID.” It includes any symptoms at least a month after initial infection. Well, if you’ve ever been actually sick with anything, you know it’s possible and not even uncommon to have coughing and congestion for a good long while after an illness. I coughed for about 6 weeks with Covid and that was my only symptom after the initial infection, but by some definitions I had “long Covid.” And then it also includes really vague, non-specific symptoms that could be anything, could be unrelated, or could be psychosomatic like “fatigue,” “headaches,” and “brain fog,” whatever that is …

It does seem like real, post-viral symptoms were more common with early infections in 2020 especially spring/summer 2020 with the more serious strains as opposed to now where we have vaccines (even though imperfect) and more treatments.

Right, and plenty of the symptoms can be explained by other health issues brought on by living in a stressful time. We're not talking about people bleeding from their eyeballs. Depression, weight gain, drinking too much, not exercising, were issues for a lot of people during the pandemic. So, you have Covid and feel "fatigue" some weeks later. Is it long Covid, or lack of exercise and too much bourbon every night? Who knows?

You are fortunate you don't have long term health issues but it's sad you have no concern or empathy for others. I have long term health issues, never drink or smoke and exercise... so sometimes it's just the bad luck of the genetics. Not everyone did something to get their health issues. Covid hasn't been that stressful. You clearly haven't had any real problems or bad things happen if you consider covid that stressful.

You really don't remember how living through 2020-2022, especially in more restricted place like the DC area, might have been stressful and depressing to a lot of people?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Stop fcking taking your sick kids out in public! Or at least put a GD make on them.

I was making a Target return and a mom came in with her sick kid. He was visibly and audibly sick. His face was flushed and sweaty and he was hacking all over the store up front. His coughing was so violent that he gagged a few times.

They were just doing normal shopping, too. He was picking out a Gingerbread village from the front of the store (and hacking all over them b/c he wasn't covering his mouth, either).

I'm almost at the point where I want to start recording and shaming these moms. This is like the 3rd or 4th time recently that I've been out and about and encountered an extremely ill kid.

What is sad is how unimportant the kids are to this parent if they'd drag them out sick. Its one thing for medication, its another for regular shopping.

You think they should just leave young kids home alone?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Stop fcking taking your sick kids out in public! Or at least put a GD make on them.

I was making a Target return and a mom came in with her sick kid. He was visibly and audibly sick. His face was flushed and sweaty and he was hacking all over the store up front. His coughing was so violent that he gagged a few times.

They were just doing normal shopping, too. He was picking out a Gingerbread village from the front of the store (and hacking all over them b/c he wasn't covering his mouth, either).

I'm almost at the point where I want to start recording and shaming these moms. This is like the 3rd or 4th time recently that I've been out and about and encountered an extremely ill kid.

What is sad is how unimportant the kids are to this parent if they'd drag them out sick. Its one thing for medication, its another for regular shopping.

We've made it so much worse for kids. It is now acceptable for very sick kids to stay at school, ensuring healthy kids get it too. It's madness. Schools are having to call some parents multiple times to take their kids home. The lack of sick leave is a massive issue, but this is not okay either.

Its one thing if you are a low income salary worker but many have plenty of sick and annual leave but refuse to use it on the kids.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Stop fcking taking your sick kids out in public! Or at least put a GD make on them.

I was making a Target return and a mom came in with her sick kid. He was visibly and audibly sick. His face was flushed and sweaty and he was hacking all over the store up front. His coughing was so violent that he gagged a few times.

They were just doing normal shopping, too. He was picking out a Gingerbread village from the front of the store (and hacking all over them b/c he wasn't covering his mouth, either).

I'm almost at the point where I want to start recording and shaming these moms. This is like the 3rd or 4th time recently that I've been out and about and encountered an extremely ill kid.

What is sad is how unimportant the kids are to this parent if they'd drag them out sick. Its one thing for medication, its another for regular shopping.

You think they should just leave young kids home alone?

You don't go, you have someone else watch the child, you go in for only needed items like medication or have it delivered. Or, have someone else get it for you.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I think many are hypochondriacs who don’t understand basic math or statistics or what actually supports good health (such as exercising, diet, being outside, social connections, etc)

Many are fat and out of shape. They might drink alcohol regularly or be on prescription medication. This is all much more dangerous to the health of a non-elderly person than Covid. I find it strange.

Actually a lot of previously healthy people now have long Covid, and many people are also disabled from it. I'm not on social media posting about precautions, but it's frustrating when people act like Covid is nothing.

It's interesting- I personally know dozens of people who have had Covid, but I don't know a single person who has long Covid. When I hear people say that long Covid is common, I just don't see it.

There’s entirely too broad of a definition of “long COVID.” It includes any symptoms at least a month after initial infection. Well, if you’ve ever been actually sick with anything, you know it’s possible and not even uncommon to have coughing and congestion for a good long while after an illness. I coughed for about 6 weeks with Covid and that was my only symptom after the initial infection, but by some definitions I had “long Covid.” And then it also includes really vague, non-specific symptoms that could be anything, could be unrelated, or could be psychosomatic like “fatigue,” “headaches,” and “brain fog,” whatever that is …

It does seem like real, post-viral symptoms were more common with early infections in 2020 especially spring/summer 2020 with the more serious strains as opposed to now where we have vaccines (even though imperfect) and more treatments.

Right, and plenty of the symptoms can be explained by other health issues brought on by living in a stressful time. We're not talking about people bleeding from their eyeballs. Depression, weight gain, drinking too much, not exercising, were issues for a lot of people during the pandemic. So, you have Covid and feel "fatigue" some weeks later. Is it long Covid, or lack of exercise and too much bourbon every night? Who knows?

You are fortunate you don't have long term health issues but it's sad you have no concern or empathy for others. I have long term health issues, never drink or smoke and exercise... so sometimes it's just the bad luck of the genetics. Not everyone did something to get their health issues. Covid hasn't been that stressful. You clearly haven't had any real problems or bad things happen if you consider covid that stressful.

Exactly! This is what I've never understood about the people that have gone on and on about how worried they are about COVID, or that have demanded that others take extreme precautions to protect them. Anyone that is actually at significant risk of COVID already has bigger health problems to worry about. COVID isn't anything new for these people-- they already either had to adjust their lifestyle to reduce their risk or simply accept the additional risks that are associated with their conditions.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Stop fcking taking your sick kids out in public! Or at least put a GD make on them.

I was making a Target return and a mom came in with her sick kid. He was visibly and audibly sick. His face was flushed and sweaty and he was hacking all over the store up front. His coughing was so violent that he gagged a few times.

They were just doing normal shopping, too. He was picking out a Gingerbread village from the front of the store (and hacking all over them b/c he wasn't covering his mouth, either).

I'm almost at the point where I want to start recording and shaming these moms. This is like the 3rd or 4th time recently that I've been out and about and encountered an extremely ill kid.

What is sad is how unimportant the kids are to this parent if they'd drag them out sick. Its one thing for medication, its another for regular shopping.

You think they should just leave young kids home alone?

You don't go, you have someone else watch the child, you go in for only needed items like medication or have it delivered. Or, have someone else get it for you.

A lot of people don't have a support network of people waiting to watch their sick kids or do their shopping for them.