Covid misinformation: PCR efficacy

More commentary on the problematic claims by the government, this one from a Kiwi doctor, such as the (lack of) efficacy of PCR tests and the likelihood of asymptomatic transmission.

An email exchange with a learned friend:

Him: "As I’ve said from the start, covid is real; the government’s response is a hoax!"

Me: "My analysis is a bit more refined. Covid is real, but not a real problem for most people -- under the age of 75, who practice good traditional personal hygiene/lifetsyle, and don't have the kind of co-morbidities that put you in a nursing home. The problem was primarily people who already had a very good chance of dying in 2020 -- without Covid. Look at the mortality stats and average age of 'Covid' victims. As to the government's role, this was one more progressive, fear-mongering power grab, exactly like climate change and 'institutional racism.' It was never about disease, climate or race; it's about progressive, liberal, socialist power."

"My prayer for Republicans reminds me of the prayer of Texas oil barons after the first major collapse of oil prices in the 1980s, 'Lord, give me another chance, another boom. I promise not to fuck it up this time.'"

"Were you to score all the actions and precautions taken by organizations and individuals, scored them in terms of efficacy (or net impact), from +5 highly effective to -5 (destructive), the only positive items from the federal government would be Trump's, i.e., vaccines, repurposed drugs. Almost every other governmental Covid mandate would score zero at best, -5 at worst, e.g., lockdowns, masks, social distancing, crowds. In terms of preventive measures, personal hygiene would score highest, stemming almost entirely from individual choices and behaviors, regardless of government mandates or PR campaigns, e.g., wash hands, stay how when sick, avoid contact with sick people, cough or sneeze into a disposable item (and dispose of it). The most important ways to prevent transmission of the virus are NOT in the government's hands. The 'science' of prevention may be exclusive to these personal, preventive measures, and not to the problematic science of progressive mayors and governors. Most corporate moves would be neutral in their overall effect, as some businesses have boomed under Covid structures while others have gone out of business. Big Tech's censuring and cancel culture actions have had a highly negative impact on the public, while sliding government control in conjunction with 'mainstream media' and Big Tech."