Yet Another Covid-19 Post

Yeah, I should probably break out of this rut of viral pandemic posts. Maybe post about Steemlandia, concentrate on writing short fiction, ramble on about plans for spring planting, try cooking something I’ve never cooked before and post about it. Woulda shoulda coulda.

But I continue to wonder about the effects of this virus on the world’s economy. So much our stuff comes from China, what might be the ripple effects as that flow of goods drops off? Shortages? Inflation? If China drops into a full-blown depression, do they start a war just to distract a restless populace?

Mostly links in this post, meh. Those who have me on autovote might want to turn it off for a while. I do seem to be stuck in a rut and there are plenty of other Steemians cranking out actual original content. That said,

Nissan is idling two of its Japanese facilities due to lack of parts coming from China:
https://www.bbc.com/news/business-51441344

Panic buying, mistrust and economic woes as Japan reels from coronavirus outbreak:
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/health-environment/article/3050017/panic-buying-mistrust-and-economic-woes-japan-reels

Meanwhile, back in China the military is taking charge of the response:
https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/sudden-militarization-wuhans-p4-lab-raises-new-questions-about-origin-deadly-covid-19

Following the removal of the most senior health officials in Wuhan yesterday, Chinese State Media has just reported that Chen Wei, China's chief biochemical weapon defense expert, is now to be stationed in Wuhan to lead the efforts to overcome the deadly, pneumonia-like pathogen.
According to the PLA Daily report, Chen Wei holds the rank of major general, and along with reports that Chinese troops have started to "assist", it strongly suggests that the PLA has taken control of the situation.

Food supplies running low in Wuhan?
https://news.yahoo.com/foreigners-stranded-wuhan-virus-tell-fear-rations-070737135.html

JP Morgan Stanley looked into things like coal consumption (i.e. electricity production) and traffic congestion. There’s some fairly strong evidence that much of the Chinese economy is grinding to a halt. (link)

And there may be a good news / bad news factor:

https://www.peakprosperity.com/the-coronavirus-threat-is-greatest-in-cities/

On the more positive side, we are hearing “success” stories from those who have now recovered from the virus. These are mostly folks who had less serious cases, which is around 80% of those infected.
But, on the more concerning side, evidence is showing that those who recover may not have immunity from catching the virus again. And, that a second infection could potentially result in a much more serious threat to life.

I’m certainly no virologist, but if initial Covid-19 infections don’t produce antibodies that can help to protect against secondary infections, that doesn’t sound good.

Chris Martenson’s latest updates: