Are we following science in this time of pandemic?
Before the end of 2019, most clinical cases were only counted when persons were found to have illnesses and were hospitalized or symptomatic. This was revised when RT-PCR was repurposed to become a diagnostic tool despite it being originally designed as a manufacturing tool – PCR positives would now be counted as such. Thus, “cases” soared.
Many scientists, including American biochemist Kary Mullis who invented the PCR, pointed out the fact that RT-PCR should not be used to diagnose disease. However, the statements of these scientists were largely ignored around the world and were even censored by mainstream media.
It is worth pointing out that this same test was found to have flaws during the A(H1N1) scare in 2009, which was believed could become a pandemic but it never did. Anyone and everyone will test positive if the cycle threshold (or the number of amplification) setting of the RT-PCR is set too high.
Right after Joe Biden was inaugurated American president, the World Health Organization has revised its guidelines on RT-PCR testing. The WHO now urges “careful interpretation of weak positive results” and “manual adjustment of PCR positivity threshold.”
Basically, what it says is that a positive RT-PCR test should not always be counted as a “case” right away. Secondary tests and additional screenings are now suggested before confirming diagnosis. What it also says is that the tests should be properly configured with the appropriate cycle threshold.
Why is this important? The mandates imposed on the general public are based on the number of cases we have. The cases we have are mostly determined by positive RT-PCR results. Positive RT-PCR results are influenced by the cycle threshold. Again, if cycle threshold is too high, the more chances for false positives.
Are we really following science? Or are we just counting cases? If big news networks on TV, who diligently displayed “case numbers,” stopped displaying them, then maybe it’s time we stopped obsessing about “cases.” — HONORARY PROF. CHATNOIR, Baguio City