I know these are uncertain times, but I still can hardly believe that a relatively-unknown pharmaceutical has hijacked my blog. But, here we go again, discussing hydroxychloroquine (HQ). This anti-malarial drug is back in the headlines because President Trump announced that he started taking it some time ago. It is a fair question if Trump is really taking it or is lying about for political reasons. But, if he is taking HQ, this is deeply troubling.
Anti-Malarial Drugs, But Not Masks
One must wonder about the mindset of a man who refuses to take such common-sense precautions as wearing a mask and staying six feet away from others in favor of taking a medication that not only does not prevent or treat Covid-19, it actually makes things worse. The logic is so twisted that I cannot understand it.
During this pandemic, some of us have lost the plot. Instead of pulling together to defeat a common and lethal foe, we have turned on each other. At the extreme, people with machine guns are descending on State capitals to protest a supposed loss of liberty. These protesters might well ask what loss of liberty is worse than the loss of life? Of course, there is none. So, why would we not do everything possible to help each other?
United We Stand?
One important thing you can do is not take HQ. It will not help with Covid-19 and might well kill you. Worse still, you are taking this medicine away from people who actually need it. For people with such diseases as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis the inability to get HQ is causing them real and severe pain. Read this first-person narrative to understand the problem better.
Bully Pulpit?
Once upon a time, the President of the United States was said to command the Bully Pulpit. This meant he could use the prestige of his office to encourage the rest of us to answer to the better angels of our nature. Sadly, we now have the Bullsh@t Pulpit, where one man can promote behavior that will deny a critical medication to people who need it while likely killing people who follow his inane lead.
The Judgment Of History Awaits
This pandemic will pass. When it is over, there will be a time of reflection. Each of us will have to answer for our actions during this time. Do you want to be among those who followed their worst instincts in a time of crisis? Will you be remembered for example, as having taken away HQ from a fellow American who truly needed it?
Or, will you be remembered who did everything possible to make life better for your fellow citizens?
