There is a great case made for how epidemics have molded and shaped human history. From the introduction of the renaissance after bubonic plague wiped out a third of Europe in the 1400s to the introduction of smallpox on the native people in the Americas, epidemics have a weay of leaving their marks on civilizations. Even now, infectious diseases have ways of attacking populations when we least expect- the best example of this being our most recent Ebola outbreak of 2014 that killed over 10,000 people in West Africa. Many epidemiologists and pathogenic researchers warn that it is not a matter of if, but when, the next great epidemic will happen that might wipe out society as we know it. It is not such a great stretch to believe this. With the ever evolving flu virus and the cacophany of antibacterial resistant microbes that are popping up, we should really ask ourselves if we are prepared for global pandemic.
On “This Week in Pestilance,” we’ll follow the pale rider around the globe, documenting and commenting on the many outbreaks that occur- discussing their history, infection rates and their epidemic risk. And each week, we’ll rate these outbreaks on their ability to go global. Join me as we monitor epidemics in real time, and prepare for the moment when the next civilization toppling pandemic hits.
Pestilence 