Perception v. reality

[RuthWeiner@aol.com]

I heard an excellent example of the pitfalls of "perceived reality" this morning on NPR:  in Nigeria, many people are convinced (because it's been hyped)that polio vaccine transmits AIDS and reduces fertility.  As a result, some parents have refused the polio vaccine and there are about 300 paralyzed children in Nigeria today.  And that is usually permanent paralysis.



There are risks associated with polio vaccine (not AIDS or infertility though) but at least the public should be educated as to how the actual estimated risks of the vaccine compare with the risk (probability of partial paralysis) of contracting polio.  



An example closer to home (especially for you Northeast folks): apparently supplies of natural gas for running gas turbine electric generators are running low, because of course gas for residential heating has priority.  Now if there were nukes to supply the electricity....



Again, it seems to me that the responsible thing for anyone actually concerned about the risks posed by nuclear power would be an honest risk assessment.



Ruth

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Ruth F. Weiner

ruthweiner@aol.com

505-856-5011

(o)505-284-8406