10 Points to Consider Before Having Your First Laser Eye Surgery, Lasik

10 Points to Consider Before Having Your First Laser Eye Surgery, Lasik

So you’ve decided to have LASIK surgery. What a thrill! However, as the procedure approaches, your nerves may begin to fray. Not to fear, this post will cover everything you need to know before LASIK laser vision correction so you can arrive relaxed, calm, and collected. LASIK is a type of laser eye surgery that is used to treat blurred vision, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It can serve as an alternative to or lessen the glasses or contact lenses requirement. It is both safe and efficient to correct vision.

In this process, an excimer laser is used to remove corneal tissue from the inner surface in the center area, after which the corneal flap is replaced and allowed to stick naturally.

Be Truthful About Your Medical History

Gather your medical history information as part of your LASIK eye surgery consultation preparation. Your doctor must have all of the pertinent information in your chart. Don’t hide or minimize your ocular or medical problems, medications, or allergies.

 Your doctor can only utilize the information you choose to offer, so provide as much detail as possible. Make no personal assumptions about what is important to your doctor. Let them make that decision.

Consume More Water Before a Lasik Laser Eye Surgery

Water makes up 60% of your body. Every tissue, cell, and organ requires water to function properly. Water helps you stay hydrated, eliminate waste, and promote healing. Because laser eye surgery can temporarily leave your eyes more prone to dryness, it’s critical to hydrate from the inside out. The use of OTC artificial tears will also assist in reducing the sensation of dryness after your therapy. You can also read more about Dealing with the post effects of LASIK eye surgery by visiting https://brusselsobserver.com/dealing-with-the-post-effects-of-lasik-eye-surgery/

Staying hydrated has no disadvantages! It is suggested that you consume at least eight 8-oz glasses of water every day. This is beneficial to laser eye treatment. Drinking alcohol before LASIK surgery can dehydrate you and interfere with the drugs used during the operation, so avoid it on the day of surgery.

Can I Consume Caffeine Before LASIK?

We want you to be relaxed and tranquil during the operation. Caffeine can dehydrate you but also make you nervous and impede your ability to relax, concentrate, and be still during surgery.

Can I drink alcohol before my LASIK procedure?

There are no restrictions on what you can and cannot drink in the days preceding your LASIK operation. However, for a few reasons, we suggest you avoid drinking alcohol on the day of the treatment. Alcohol, like caffeine, dehydrates. We would avoid anything that could aggravate your dry eyes on the day of surgery, especially if you had dry eyes before LASIK. Also, before surgery, you will be given an oral sedative to help you relax, which should not be taken with alcohol. Although you will be calm, you will be aware throughout the operation, and drinking can make attention more difficult. You will be given an oral pain reliever immediately after surgery; this should not be taken with alcohol.

Is it okay to use eye drops before LASIK?

During your initial visit, one of the criteria we consider when determining whether surgery is a safe option is your tear film. Certain medical disorders or drugs can sometimes make individuals more prone to dryness. You may be advised to utilize over-the-counter artificial tears to increase the quality of your tear film. If you use medicated eye drops, tell your doctor so they can better advise you on whether you should stop taking them in the days leading up to the day of your surgery. If you use allergy eye drops or decongestants, you should discontinue them on the day before surgery but can typically resume them the next day.

Wearing Contacts Before LASIK

Contact lens wearers may find it especially difficult to prepare for LASIK. Before LASIK surgery, you will be requested to refrain from wearing contact lenses. Their substance determines the length of time you must be without contact lenses. It would help if you refrained from using soft lenses for 5 to 7 days before your pre-operative checkup and surgery. If you wear toric lenses to treat astigmatism, you will need to take them out for 10 to 14 days. For other types of specialty lenses, you will be told how long you must be without them prior to surgery during your initial appointment.

Many people wonder why you have to quit using contacts before having LASIK. That is an excellent question! Contact lenses can affect the shape of your eye’s front surface, the cornea, and corneal measurements are critical in LASIK calculations. When you come in for your initial consultation, ask how long you should go without wearing contacts before LASIK.

Why Must You Stop Wearing Contacts Before LASIK?

Can you wear contacts before having LASIK? The simple answer is no. After your consultation, you should avoid using contact lenses until your dilated pre-op exam and surgery. This will help your cornea to return to its original form. No matter how well you maintain them, contact lenses also house bacteria. Because the bacteria could potentially raise the risk of infection, it’s another reason to avoid wearing contact lenses before LASIK.

The question is, may I wear contact lenses after laser eye surgery? In most cases, the answer is no during the postoperative time. They are drying and can host bacteria that might impede healing. The aim is that you won’t need them after you’ve healed completely. If you do, you should be able to wear them without issue. You will, however, require a new prescription and fitting.

Is it necessary to wear glasses before LASIK?

Do you have to wear glasses if you don’t have contacts before LASIK? It all depends on your prescription and how much you rely on corrective glasses. It can be challenging to avoid wearing contacts before a LASIK appointment if you have a high prescription. It is critical, however, that you can function comfortably without contact lenses in the days preceding your surgery. If you need new glasses, make sure to obtain them.

Wear No Makeup, Perfume, Or Fragrance

Makeup can interfere with the drugs and lasers used during surgery, so avoid wearing any on the day of surgery. On the day before the operation, avoid using any scented items, perfume, or scents. These products may interfere with air quality, which is strictly controlled by systems that manage temperature, humidity, and purity.

Prepare mentally because you will be awake during surgery.

You are given sedative medicine before LASIK to help you relax. However, unlike other surgeries, laser eye surgery will be performed while you are conscious. Be prepared to pay close attention. Some individuals are afraid of being awake, although it can be exciting to observe what’s happening right in front of your eyes.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you now better understand how to prepare for eye surgery. There aren’t many things to do before having laser eye surgery. Except eat something before you show up. Is it safe to eat before having LASIK surgery? You certainly can! Unlike many procedures, this one does not require general anesthesia. Food will also help with the pain medicine provided shortly after surgery to help lessen discomfort.

Posted by admin in Eye Surgery, 0 comments
Dealing with the post effects of LASIK eye surgery

Dealing with the post effects of LASIK eye surgery

Your age at the time of the treatment, as well as whether or not you have any other progressive eye problems, will decide how long certain changes take place following your LASIK eye surgery.

One’s eyesight alters after LASIK eye surgery.

While LASIK surgery permanently changes your vision, there are a number of reasons why your vision may change following LASIK eye surgery.

If the original condition that hindered your vision — such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism (blurry vision) — continues to deteriorate, your vision may change over time. According to the American Refractive Surgery Council, this is the case. As a consequence of this voyage, it’s conceivable that your vision may change.

Another common explanation for vision alterations years after LASIK surgery is presbyopia, a natural eye change that happens as people age. It happens when your lens gets less flexible as you get older, making it less able to focus on stuff in your surrounding area.

Your age at the time of surgery, as well as the degree to which your eye illnesses develop, if they progress at all, will decide how long your LASIK surgery “lasts.”

Dealing with the post effects of LASIK

Even after 10 years of therapy, the great majority of people who have LASIK eye surgery remain happy with their eyesight.

According to one study, 35 percent of those who had laser eye surgery needed it repeated after 10 years because of wear and tear. Trusted Source performed another study that followed individuals who had LASIK eye surgery for nearsightedness and/or astigmatism. Approximately 10% of study participants had age-related visual changes during the course of the 12-year trial, according to the researchers.

If your vision gets blurry again after your original treatment for any reason, you may be able to have LASIK enhancement done even years later. It depends on how much tissue was taken during the original operation and how much tissue is left after that.

What is LASIK surgery and how does it work?

Light bends and gets focused on the retina, which is situated in the back of your eye, after striking the cornea, the transparent outer layer of your eye. Refraction is the technical term for this.

Light does not concentrate on your retina because it does not bend properly, causing your vision to become hazy. This is what is known as a refractive error.

The three most frequent types of refractive defects may be treated with laser vision correction (LASIK):

Nearsightedness (myopia).

Your vision is sharp when you look at things that are near to you, but it is blurry when you look at things that are far away.

Long-sightedness (hyperopia).

Your vision is clear when you look at things that are far away, but it is blurry when you look at things that are near.

Dealing with the post effects of LASIK

Astigmatism

An imperfection in the shape of the cornea, which is the front of the eye, causes blurred vision.

The method of LASIK eye surgery involves reshaping your cornea with lasers or small blades to remedy these abnormalities. It takes some time, but once it’s done, light bends and focuses properly on your retina.

As a result, whether up close and far away, your vision will be clean and sharp. The ultimate goal is to correct your vision to the point where you don’t need glasses or contacts anymore.

What to Expect Right Away Lasik is a procedure that is performed after eye surgery.

You may have one or more of the following symptoms after surgery, which should go away in a few weeks to months:

  • Foggy or fuzzy vision
  • Itchy, dry, and watery eyes
  • Light sensitivity; visual anomalies such double vision, glare, and haloes; and other signs and symptoms

It is crucial not to brush or poke your eye after LASIK surgery since this may cause the flap to slip out of place and interfere with the healing process.

You may realize that you no longer need your glasses or contact lenses after laser eye surgery. Although they are not required for many occupations, such as reading or driving, they may be required for some if your vision is not totally recovered.

Lazer eye surgery is a technique that alters the shape of your cornea permanently and irreversibly. This is true, but it does not mean that your vision will stay clear for the rest of your life. The changes in the eyes that occur as a normal part of the aging process cannot be reversed with LASIK surgery.

Because of presbyopia, which impairs close-up vision, almost everyone needs reading glasses around the age of 40. (age-related macular degeneration). This is something that LASIK surgery will not be able to fix.

Dealing with the post effects of LASIK

Some recommendations for selecting a LASIK surgeon

Keeping the following factors in mind while choosing a doctor to do your LASIK operation may be beneficial:

To help you choose a doctor, talk to your primary care physician as well as relatives and friends who have had LASIK.

1. Select a LASIK surgeon with a high success rate and a big number of LASIK procedures completed.

2. Find a doctor with an office that is convenient for you.

3. Locate a specialist that does LASIK eye surgery in the way that you prefer (all laser, bladed, or custom).

4. Compare pricing and choose a doctor that is both affordable and provides payment options that are suitable for you.

5. Check to see whether any facilities that advertise “cheap” or “much discounted” LASIK eye surgery are authentic before electing to get the procedure done there.

6. Find out precisely what is included in the price and make sure there are no hidden costs, such as those related with follow-up consultations.

7. Most importantly, select a doctor with whom you feel at ease and in whom you have faith.

Final thoughts

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is an eye surgery procedure that may improve your vision dramatically. It changes the shape of the tissue at the front of your eye permanently, and these changes last for the rest of your life. However, the majority of people’s vision deteriorates with age as part of the natural aging process. Because LASIK eye surgery cannot prevent this, your vision may get blurry once again as you become older.

Posted by admin in Eye Surgery, LASIK Laser Eye
Consider these factors before going for LASIK

Consider these factors before going for LASIK

Almost everyone who wears eyeglasses or contacts has considered laser eye surgery (LASIK) at some point in their life. You’re not alone if you use glasses or contact lenses. There are millions of Canadians who do.

The truth is that laser eye surgery (also known as “refractive surgery”) has become more popular in recent years. Even though technology has progressed in recent years to make the procedure safer and more complicated, there are still certain risks associated with it. If you’re thinking about getting laser eye surgery, you should examine the following considerations.

1. Is Laser Eye Surgery Right for You?

When it comes to correcting vision difficulties, laser eye surgery is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. You may be unable to have laser eye surgery if you have a number of medical conditions, such as excessively dry eyes or corneal abnormalities. In the first instance, see your optometrist or ophthalmologist to discover whether you are a suitable candidate for laser eye surgery.

Consider these factors before going for LASIK

2. Various Types of Laser Eye Surgery

The majority of individuals envision a single laser eye surgery treatment when they think about laser eye surgery. In actuality, there are a variety of surgical procedures. LASIK and PRK eye surgery (short for Photorefractive Keratectomy) are two of the most common treatments for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

To get access to the treatment site, a flap is carved into the top layer of the cornea, while PRK removes the top layer of the cornea, which subsequently heals and returns to its former place during a 72-hour period. LASEK is a variation of PRK that involves the removal of a layer of cornea and subsequent replacement of that layer.

3. Is Your Surgeon a Licensed Surgeon?

Despite the fact that laser eye surgery is now widely accessible, it can only be performed by a qualified and certified ophthalmologist. Inquire about your surgeon’s level of experience, success rates, potential risks, and the types of post-operative care he or she will give after your procedure.

Your optometrist is well-versed on the state of your eyes and vision. They are likely to be acquainted with the area and will be able to provide you with a reference if you are a suitable match. Check out other patient reviews and recommendations to ensure that you’re getting the best possible treatment.

4. Laser Eye Surgery Is Dangerous

There is no such thing as “minimally invasive surgery” for the eyes. The term “minor eye surgery” does not exist. Laser eye surgery is still considered an invasive procedure, and complications may emerge as a consequence. The most common dangers are overcorrection and undercorrection, both of which might result in visual impairment in certain situations.

Furthermore, it is conceivable (though uncommon) to injure the cornea, which might result in eye irritation and infection. In rare cases, a second procedure may be necessary to remedy an overcorrection or undercorrection that happened during the initial surgery. Consult your optometrist about any possible risks linked with the procedure.

Consider these factors before going for LASIK

5. What are the conditions and limitations?

While the great majority of laser surgery patients will see an improvement in their vision, no physician can guarantee 20/20 vision or the removal of corrective spectacles after the procedure is done. Depending on the strength of your original prescription and your age, you may still need corrective glasses, according to an article published by the Vision Eye Institute in 2018. Another important aspect to keep in mind is that laser surgery will not correct presbyopia, which means you may still need reading glasses as you become older.

6. What Can You Expect After Your Surgery?

Remember to talk to your surgeon about post-operative eye care to find out what kind of therapy you’ll get and what you’ll be accountable for so that the procedure is as successful as possible. Many surgery facilities work closely with your optometrist to ensure that you are seen again for follow-up care. Prescription eye drops are often used as well as follow-up appointments with an optometrist or surgeon to ensure that there are no complications after the treatment. Inquire about any limitations that may apply after the procedure, such as the inability to engage in sports or use eye makeup for a certain period of time.

While laser eye surgery may eliminate the need for corrective eyeglasses, it’s critical to understand all of the aspects of the treatment before going forward with it. Knowing as much as possible about your own eye health, your surgeon, and the procedure can help you decide if laser eye surgery is right for you.

Consider these factors before going for LASIK

Is LASIK Surgery Effective for a Long Time?

When it comes to LASIK eye surgery, the results are long-lasting. Because the surgeon physically reshapes the cornea to repair the flaws that cause myopia, hyperopia, and/or astigmatism, this technique is a permanent solution. The operation is done as an outpatient procedure.

On the other side, your refractive defects may develop with time, and you may also suffer additional visual issues. Because your eyes may change over time, it is possible to acquire new refractive errors after laser eye surgery; nevertheless, this is not a result of regression after the treatment. Only existing problems can be treated with LASIK.

There are many hazards associated with multiple LASIK eye surgery operations.

Laser eye surgery is often thought of as a quick and painless operation with a high success rate in the treatment of vision problems. After having their eyes fixed with lasers, the majority of LASIK patients report having better than 20/40 vision, with more than 90% claiming 20/20 vision or better.

As with any medical process, there are risks and side effects involved with LASIK surgery, and the more times you have the operation, the more likely you are to face these risks. The following are some of the risks associated with LASIK surgery: 

  • After your surgery, you may have dry eyes for up to three months. (It’s possible that eye drops will help.)
  • Because the flaps created during laser eye surgery are not attached, they may get dislodged during the healing process if you touch your eyes or are jabbed in the eye during recovery.

Schedule a consultation with your eye doctor or another eye care specialist to learn more about laser eye surgery. You may consult with an expert to see whether you are a suitable candidate for LASIK augmentation surgery.

Posted by admin in Eye Surgery, LASIK Laser Eye

Uncommon facts on rapid antigen tests

Even with encouraging recent developments in vaccine research, rapidly testing, tracking, tracing, and isolating (TTTI) remain to be critical components of public health policy responses to the COVID 19 pandemic. This note updates a previous OECD brief on similar tactics in light of current technological advancements in testing. Molecular assays, particularly RT-PCR rapid antigen tests, remain the gold standard for diagnosing infections due to their high reliability.

However, capacity restrictions and the relatively expensive cost of the RT-PCR rapid antigen test preclude its widespread application. Rapid antigen tests developed more recently have the benefit of delivering findings significantly more fast. Additionally, they are less expensive, easier to use, and maybe conducted at the point of care, allowing for their widespread adoption.

They are, however, less accurate than molecular testing. To accomplish their aims, testing techniques might mix and complement several technologies, taking into consideration their unique strengths and weaknesses.

While testing for Covid-19 is no longer foreign to us, as it becomes further engrained in our life (at least for the next few months), it’s a good idea to brush up on how to guarantee your test is quick and accurate every time. Here are five short tips.

Tip 1 – Become acquainted with the kit and instructions!

Most of us have probably taken a Covid-19 test by now! However, it is prudent to read the directions thoroughly in case the procedure differs from what you have previously encountered. This will guarantee that an accurate sample is taken. This is particularly critical if you are doing a lateral flow device test, since the result will be processed by you. Learn more about different types of COVID-19 tests at http://brusselsobserver.com/understanding-different-types-of-covid-rapid-antigen-tests/

Tip 2 – Are your eyes watering or do you feel the want to sneeze? This is accurate!

While doing a nose and throat swab test is quite uncomfortable, we want to emphasize that if you gag or your eyes water while swabbing your throat, you are performing the test properly! The same is true for your nose if you’re about to sneeze.

Tip 3 – Ensure that you understand how to return your exam.

Returning the test to our rapid antigen tests lab may vary depending on the delivery option you choose. If you’re returning through Royal Mail (Standard Delivery), please ensure that you know the location of your closest priority mailbox, since this service does not provide at-home pickup.

If you’ve selected our expedited courier service, the courier will wait outside while you complete the exam. Please note that we are unable to arrange for the courier to retrieve the test at a different time than when it is dropped off.

Tip 4 – Obtaining your outcomes.

Within 24 hours of the lab receiving your rapid antigen tests sample, you will have your findings! After they’ve been processed, we’ll send you an email inviting you to log in to https://clinicalsupplies.com.au and download them together with any accompanying documentation.

Tip 5 – Information about travel certificates.

If you’ve scheduled a ‘Fit to Fly’ exam, we’ll provide you with a GP-signed travel certificate. The following is the information that will appear on your certificate:

  • The test barcode number 
  • Your full name, date of birth, and passport number 
  • The date you took the swab and the date the laboratory tested the swab 
  • The laboratory’s name and any accreditations 
  • Your result

While recent developments in the development of a vaccine for COVID 19 are hopeful, testing, tracking, tracing, and isolating (TTTI) techniques will remain critical. Only TTTI can prevent further outbreaks of illness during lockdowns until whole populations are immunized. There are two primary sorts of rapid antigen tests technologies that may be used to inform such methods.

  • Molecular assays, particularly RT-PCR, continue to be the gold standard for diagnosing current infections. These tests have been shown to be quite dependable – they exhibit a high degree of sensitivity and specificity. However, capacity restrictions and the relatively expensive cost of RT-PCR rapid antigen tests preclude their widespread adoption. Additionally, it takes time to generate test results. learn more difference about these COVID-19 test at https://www.enzolifesciences.com/science-center/technotes/2017/march/what-are-the-differences-between-pcr-rt-pcr-qpcr-and-rt-qpcr?/
  • The primary benefit of rapid antigen testing is that they provide findings considerably more rapidly. Additionally, they are easy to execute, may be done at the point of care, and are less expensive than molecular tests, allowing for their usage on a broad scale. They are, however, less trustworthy than molecular tests – they have a high degree of specificity but a low degree of sensitivity.

The testing strategy’s goals should dictate the sort of test to use, taking these strengths and limits into mind.

  • Given the rapidity and scale with which point-of-care rapid antigen tests may be utilized, monitoring certain demographic groups where a new cluster of illnesses is expected to arise is the most suitable application of point-of-care rapid antigen tests. However, this needs repeated testing. Testing persons for air travel may be used to increase screening before to boarding planes and to relax quarantine restrictions upon arrival, although such tactics should be used with care.
  • Rapid antigen tests are the only feasible alternative for large-scale population screening initiatives. While this may seem to be an attractive technique for guiding containment efforts, the associated difficulties should not be overlooked, and success is unknown.
  • Molecular testing is the preferred method for diagnosing patients and informing treatment choices in a clinical environment, since the reliability of these tests reduces the possibility of misdiagnosis. Click here to learn more about Molecular testing.

Additionally, molecular tests are the best choice for those who exhibit symptoms or have come into touch with a proven case to guide TTTI tactics. Certain point-of-care rapid antigen tests, on the other hand, maybe a viable alternative to molecular testing in certain circumstances. However, more testing or confirming molecular tests may be required. The value of point-of-care rapid antigen tests in TTTI techniques is contingent upon whether the benefits of improved speed and cheaper costs and therefore more tests, balance the disadvantages of decreased sensitivity.

Final thoughts

If you’re interested in doing quick antigen testing, this article will provide you with some unusual information about rapid antigen tests. In this regard, feel free to go over it again until you’ve sapped out every info. 

Posted by admin in Covid-19 Test, rapid antigen test, RAT

Understanding different types of COVID rapid antigen tests

Over the past six months, scientists and professionals from across the globe have developed and validated novel techniques for recognizing the coronavirus. As science improves and becomes more widely accepted, you may find it difficult to keep up with the newest rapid antigen tests and procedures. You are not alone in this.

We contacted Brian Mochon, PhD, a clinical microbiologist and system medical director for infectious disease testing at Sonora Quest Laboratories/Laboratory Sciences of Arizona, for his perspective on the COVID-19 testing’s unique sample collection methodologies. He outlined three methods for diagnosing a patient: throat swabs, nasal swabs, and nasopharyngeal swabs. Dr. Mochon also highlighted other collection techniques, including the use of saliva and sample pooling. Learn more about rapid antigen tests at https://clinicalsupplies.com.au/collections/rapid-antigen-tests

Swab amassed

You’ve definitely heard a few friends discuss their nose swab experiences. Certain friends may wax eloquent about their suffering, while others dismissively state that it was little. Both are saying the truth. “These samples may be taken from various depths in the nose,” Dr. Mochon said. “While some swabs are intended to take samples from the nasal walls of the nostril, others are designed to capture samples from deeper into the nasal cavity” (i.e., the nasopharynx). Additionally, samples may be taken from the back of the throat, referred to as an oropharyngeal (OP) swab. All swabs have the same objective — to detect respiratory secretions and infectious cells.”

Therefore, why isn’t everyone just adopting the most convenient method? According to Dr. Mochon, “samples taken from deeper in the nasopharynx have been shown to have a greater viral content or titer.” In other words, sampling with nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs is more likely to provide a correct diagnosis than sampling with a nasal or throat swab.” As a result, the nasopharyngeal swab has long been considered the gold standard for trustworthy testing. Click here to learn some complications of the nasopharyngeal swab test.

“Of course, there is still a place for collecting nasal or throat samples,” Dr. Mochon said. “Obviously, they are more comfortable, but they may also be a safer option for people who suffer from persistent nose bleeds or nasal polyps. If you have one of these disorders, you should consult your provider regarding the optimal sample type for your requirements; nonetheless, nasopharyngeal samples should be the main technique of collection whenever feasible.”

Laboratory Examination of the Sample

After collecting the swab, it is put in a liquid called transport medium and transferred to the laboratory for processing and testing. Indeed, you may be surprised to hear that the lab analyzes all swabs identically (nasal, NP, and throat). This is because the collecting swabs are seeking the same thing – the virus in respiratory secretions and infected cells. Once the swab is inserted into the transport medium, the virus and infected cells are released into the liquid. The liquid is then used to conduct rapid antigen tests.

Saliva

Dr. Mochon was effusive in his praise for this sample type. “Preliminary results from a variety of labs throughout the nation indicate that saliva may be as accurate as of the NP swab.” He continued by stating that if saliva is shown to be a reliable and accurate sample type, it will result in a more pleasant experience for the patient and reduce the need for swabs throughout the collection process. This is really encouraging for patients and medical professionals alike.”

Dr. Mochon added that the deeper, NP swabs might sometimes elicit sneezing or choking, which can result in the virus being aerosolized. Healthcare staff is protected by masks and other protective gear while doing NP swabs. With saliva, this is not an issue since the patient would simply spit into a tube or a cup.

Pooling

Multiple patient samples are mixed and evaluated in this manner. If a value is negative, it is presumed that all values are negative. If a patient tests positive, the laboratory will retest him or her separately. The aim for this strategy is to expand the laboratory’s testing capacity while saving money on testing reagents, which have been restricted in quantity because to the scale and breadth of the COVID-19 epidemic. This approach is only applicable if the viral prevalence is less than 5-6 percent.

Should I Have My Blood Tested?

While these rapid antigen tests are becoming more readily accessible, they are still generally reserved for those who exhibit symptoms. If you are symptom-free, you may like to read more about the antibody rapid antigen tests. If you are experiencing COVID-19-related symptoms, please contact our symptom checker at bannerhealth.com for guidance on next measures.

Don’t: If you have no symptoms, get checked. This is why:

  • There are still a limited number of COVID-19 rapid antigen tests available, and they must be saved for those in most need. 
  • COVID-19 rapid antigen tests are only helpful when a person exhibits symptoms. Individuals who do not exhibit symptoms may rapid antigen tests negative (false negative result), despite the fact that they are infected and asymptomatic. It is critical to get checked only if you are experiencing symptoms.

Do: Keep an eye on your symptoms and contact your doctor before seeking rapid antigen tests.

  • Specific requirements remain in effect for individuals who need testing. Consult your physician prior to looking out testing locations.
  • Symptoms are similar to those of the flu or a cold, and may include a new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, fever, or a sudden loss of smell or taste. If you acquire any of these symptoms or have come into touch with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19:

Do: Take the following steps to maintain a healthy immune system:

  • Stress management, enough sleep, and a good diet may all help strengthen your immunity. learn more about stress management at https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress
  • Use social distancing techniques to help reduce your risk of infection.
  • Avoid contacting your eyes, mouth, or nose. Virus particles on your hands have the potential to infect your body via these entrance locations.
  • Clean your hands. OFTEN. Handwashing, the Centers for Sickness Control and Prevention report, may help prevent disease in both yourself and others. Adhere to these measures after you eat, after you use the restroom, and as often as feasible.

Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly with clean, running water and soap.

Step 2. Lather soap in your hands, working it into the back, front, between your fingers, and between your toes.

Step 3. For at least 20 seconds, scrub your hands.

Step 4. Thoroughly rinse your hands under running water.

Step 5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or allow them to air dry.

Posted by admin in Covid-19 Test, rapid antigen test, RAT
The Top Pros and Cons of Eye Surgery using LASIK

The Top Pros and Cons of Eye Surgery using LASIK

The LASIK process of eye surgery requires some level of careful consideration and evaluation. In addition, you need to consider the cost and compare it with the involved risks in the process. Moreover, when the experts in eye surgery weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the LASIK process, you can make a more informed decision. 

Furthermore, there are many reasons why patients may seek eye surgery using the LASIK process. At least one thing is clear – everyone wants to wake up in the morning without the worry of grappling for contact lenses or seeing glasses. In addition, people want to enjoy their work with optimum leisure, comfort, and a clear vision. But as soon as you begin to experience some difficulty, it becomes an indication to seek help in the right place. 

What is Eye Surgery using LASIK?

Operating the eye with the LASIK procedure involves cutting a small flap of the cornea surface cells. Then, reshaping the underlying cornea to perfect the sight of the patient. Moreover, the price of the procedure is another reason why some people may hesitate on LASIK Surgery. For example, when you also consider that LASIK is usually not covered by a typical insurance policy, you may want to have an alternative means of payment for the procedure. 

Therefore, let us carefully observe the pros and cons of the eye surgery procedure using LASIK.

LASIK Surgery: Pros and Cons | Kraff Eye Institute

Pros of LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK eye surgery is safe and quick

As an outpatient procedure, the LASIK eye surgery may not take more than 20 minutes, with all other factors remaining normal. Meanwhile, the bulk of the time of the eye surgery is even spent preparing for the procedure. There are two options to getting the patient ready for LASIK.

The first one is using an anesthetic for the patient to sleep. Alternatively, if the patient is awake, the process may require valium drug to calm the eye nerves for the procedure. In addition, the method involving the use of a laser also requires that the patient be patient with peace of mind.

Meanwhile, the laser also shuts down the patient’s eye to not make any sudden movement that could lead to an error or injury.  Visit http://brusselsobserver.com/the-journey-after-lasik-laser-eye-surgery/ to read about The Journey after LASIK Laser Eye Surgery.

You can get LASIK results quickly

The results of undergoing eye surgery with the LASIK procedure are obtainable in no time. LASIK patients can quickly gain back their clear sight in a few hours after completing the procedure. Meanwhile, the patient can also return to their complete activities within the following 48 hours. 

However, if the patient receives a PRK, the recovery time may be longer, about one month. Apart from the length of time, the recovered patient may also experience some form of minor pain due to removing the corneal surface. 

  1. LASIK can help you live without glasses or contactless completely

Eye patients choosing either the PRK or the LASIK procedure for eye surgery may become completely free from using glasses or contact lenses. This prospect alone can be life-changing as it encourages one to live an everyday life after that. Moreover, engage in certain activities that make the use of glasses a bit more inconvenient. It may be a good idea to undergo LASIK eye surgery. 

After undergoing the LASIK procedure, you can be completely free to do the activities that you couldn’t do before due to poor eye vision. On the other hand, those sick of wearing contacts for a long time, thereby causing dry eyes, may prefer to do eye surgery with the LSIK procedure.  

Cons of LASIK Eye Surgery

LASIK is not for everyone

As sweet as the discussed advantages are, kindly note that the LASIK eye surgery procedure is unsuitable for everyone. Notably, anyone that is older than the age of 40 is not eligible for the system. The reason is that if there is a presence of presbyopia, another eye condition, LASIK may not work. By the way, presbyopia is when the eye lens is a bit stiff and becomes a little difficult to produce a close-up vision.

On the other hand, if patients have thin corneas or high prescriptions, another similar surgery, the photorefractive keratectomy or PRK, may be more suitable. Another reason may be that the patients don’t have enough residual cornea to be structurally eligible for LASIK. Remember that the LASIK procedure involves some flap making. 

LASIK involves some risks

One reported side effect of the eye procedure using LASIK is that the eyes may experience some dryness for a few months. In the meantime, the patient can make use of artificial tears to keep it moist. However, this experience may not become a permanent case as it often changes after three months. In addition, there is also a risk of nightmare glare or halos after the LASIK procedure. 

Moreover, professionals opined that the involved risks in LASIK are becoming more and more reduced due to some latest technology for the surgery. In addition, the treatment zone has become more extensive, covering the entire area of the cornea. 

LASIK could injure the flaps

The LASIK procedure requires creating some flaps in the process. And these flaps need to be kept intact while the eyes are still recuperating from the operation. However, suppose the patient mistakenly rubs their eyes while still healing. In that case, it could cause a severe injury to the eyes by dislodging them. 

Another danger is that the harm can still happen even after several years of LASIK’s eye procedure. Meanwhile, if any case of trauma or injury occurs, one should see the doctor immediately. 

Conclusion

The privilege of having a perfectly restored vision is worth all the process of the LASIK eye surgery procedure. And a patient who has a record of success with the design can testify to its effectiveness. You can, after that, live happily and comfortably without any pair of glasses or contact lens. Moreover, take heed to all the given instructions before and after the surgery. You can live perfectly fine without any other need for eye surgery.

Posted by admin in Eye Surgery, LASIK
The Journey after LASIK Laser Eye Surgery

The Journey after LASIK Laser Eye Surgery

We cannot overemphasize the beauty of undergoing LASIK eye surgery to regain your vision and be free from glasses and contact lenses. This article may not begin from a description of how the LASIK process came to be. Instead, we will consider the journey after your LASIK surgery, especially during the recovery period. 

It is essential to have all the information you need about LASIK before, during, and after your eye surgery. Meanwhile, the latter part is most important because it covers what you need to do to care for your eyes after the procedure. This part can also play a significant role in ensuring that you maximize the process without suffering any relapse or unnecessary pain.

Below are the details of the involved stages in your journey of recovery. We will take it from when you first open your eyes to the next moments, days, weeks, and months after the surgery. Indeed, LASIK eye surgery can change your life as it has changed many celebrities you know. 

The moment you first open your eyes

One exciting thing about the LASIK procedure is that when you open your eyes, most patients get an improved vision. Also, it feels as if you open your eyes underwater. Even if it does not appear in an instant, it is still enjoyable. The enjoyable part is because you now can see clearly without the need for glasses or lenses. Most people get the excitement as soon as they open their eyes for the first time after the surgery.

Furthermore, within the following few hours, your vision should get a lot better and more transparent. You will even be able to drive out of the hospital by yourself. No doubt, this period is the beginning of the journey to full recovery, and you will do well not to think the process is complete. The entire process of recovery from eye surgery using LASIK can take up to 6 months. However, the development and quality of vision continue to improve. 

The first 24 hours of your LASIK Recovery 

The journey has already started when you begin to notice the improved vision during recovery with LASIK. Never mind that it looks foggy for now as if you are underwater; it gets clearer and sharper in no time. As the vision gets more apparent, you can begin to journey back home through a ride or if you can wait for over 24 hours before driving home. 

Meanwhile, the eye procedure also involves covering your eyes with shields for protection against injury. In addition, the covering shields your eyes from the light rays since they can be susceptible. Just imagine waking up from sleep and turning to bright light. That is not too palatable, or is it? 

7 Stages you pass through within the first 24 hours

Take note of the following steps that occur within the first 24 hours of recovery after your surgery.

  • Your discharge from the hospital comes with a doctor’s prescription involving eye drops to prevent your eyes from inflammation and infection. In addition, in case of experiencing dryness in the eyes, you can also use non-prescription eye drops to lubricate the eyes.
Managing Dry Eye Symptoms and Optimizing Comfort | LA Sight
  • The eye drops you have for keeping your eyes moist can also be held in the fridge to keep it cool. Moreover, the result of relief is much better when the liquid is excellent on the eyes. Meanwhile, when you arrive home, take about 4 hours to get a night of good sleep to enhance blood flow through the eye veins. If you can spare that 4 hours, you should feel much better because the recovery process will be much faster. 
  • Remember that you had anesthesia before the surgery began. Therefore, as the anesthesia wears off from your system, you may feel some level of discomfort. Moreover, some patients have reported a slight burning, itching, or a feeling of tiny sand in the eye. All these sensations only show that your eyes are healing and adjusting to the surgery aftermath. It will only last for some hours, and you will be outstanding afterward. Click here to learn about The Top Pros and Cons of Eye Surgery using LASIK.
Unhappy with LASIK or Cataract Surgery results? We can help
  • As time goes on, there are some other symptoms that you may begin to experience. For instance, you may experience puffy eyelids, light sensitivity (especially when sudden), tearing, seeing halos, or starbursts around lights at night. In addition, you may get red or bloodshot eyes. However, with time during the week, you should feel much better. Meanwhile, this time is right for getting some days off from work until you feel good.
  • You should also wear eye shields when trying to sleep within the first week after surgery. The reason is that rubbing your eyes against the pillow or blanket may slow down your recovery process and disturb the healing of the corneal flap. In addition, you should, by all means, avoid rubbing or even touching your eyes.
  • You have the clearance to shower but while doing so, ensure that soap water or any of the bathing chemicals does not get into the eyes. At least in the first week after your surgery, because they may also attract bacterial contamination.
  • Finally, kindly avoid the act of straining or lifting during the first week after your surgery and while you recover. 

The Day after LASIK Surgery

The very day after your surgery may require you to return for an initial post-op checkup. At your first checkup, the surgeon can also monitor your recuperation more closely and help you recover faster. At the same time, he can also compare how you are recovering with the planned schedule for recovery. It also provides an opportunity to tell the doctor of any strange feeling you may have.

In addition, the doctor may remove your eye shield if you have been using any. Moreover, the examination may also include testing your vision and tracking your improvement level over time. Ideally, you should have your next visit for a checkup after one week of the first checkup. Remember that your first visit should involve describing all your symptoms with the surgeon. 

Eye Surgery

Furthermore, ask your surgeon the right questions, and he will be ready to give you all the answers you need. Asking questions also indicate that the surgeon can address any concern you have or any concerns that develop. Suppose any of the instructions are also not clear. In that case, this time is also suitable for helping you on the journey of a smooth recovery.

Posted by admin in Eye Surgery, LASIK Laser Eye
Exclusive: inside the media conspiracy to hype Greta Thunberg

Exclusive: inside the media conspiracy to hype Greta Thunberg

Over 250 news outlets and journalists partnered with Columbia University School of Journalism’s flagship magazine to shape control of “climate crisis” coverage in the lead-up to the United Nations climate conference. The coverage-coordination initiative included directing how much time, space, and prominence should be devoted to the coverage, and asking that climate “news” be added to seemingly unrelated stories.

Some of the biggest media outlets in the country, such as CBS and Bloomberg, joined the effort. But others, such as The Washington Post and The New York Times, declined to participate in a project they reportedly feared appeared activist in nature. More troubling, a number of the major outlets that joined did not disclose participation to their readers.

In addition to CBS and Bloomberg, the effort, called Covering Climate Now, involved BuzzFeed News, HuffPost, The Daily Beast, the Center for Public Integrity, Newsweek, Rolling Stone, Slate, Vanity Fair, and The Weather Channel, among many others. BuzzFeed and The Huffington Post were among the major outlets that did not disclose the coordination. When asked by the Daily Caller News Foundation, the lack of disclosure was criticized by the Society of Professional Journalists.

The coordination effort was organized in part by Columbia Journalism Review (CJR), a nonprofit that represents professional journalists and was traditionally focused primarily on journalism ethics. Covering Climate Now’s founders hope to continue elevating climate news even after the project ends. The effort’s target was the lead-up to, and coverage of, the U.N. “Climate Action Summit,” held Sept. 15-23.

BuzzFeed News reached more than 27 million unique views between September and October, according to Quantcast, a website measuring audience size. BuzzFeed is owned by Jonah Peretti, an internet entrepreneur who founded the outlet in 2006 to track viral online content, and the left-leaning HuffPo is owned by Verizon Communications. Media tycoon Arianna Huffington originally founded HuffPo in 2005 with the help of Peretti.

Covering Climate Now’s founders kicked off the project in April and announced in May that they would ask partners to devote a week to climate-related news, starting in September. The Nation environmental correspondent Mark Hertsgaard co-founded the project under the assumption that the news outlets don’t cover climate change as urgently as he thinks they should.

WaPo and others did not contribute because they believe Covering Climate Now has the “aroma” of advocacy, he complained in September.

“We believe that every news organization in America, and many around the world, can play a part,” CJR posted May 22. Sometimes that will mean committing your newsroom to important and high-impact stories. Other times it will mean sharing your content, engaging your community, or adding a few lines of climate information to stories that wouldn’t otherwise have them.”

Covering Climate Now has not responded to the DCNF’s request for comment.

Much of the group’s coverage leading up to the U.S. climate summit focused on Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, a 16-year-old girl who traveled to the U.S. in August on a racing yacht. Her visit was designed to galvanize American support for policies that seek to tackle climate change.

Thunberg’s activism and Covering Climate Now’s media blitz seemed to fall flat with the crowd of United Nations diplomats: No major promises were made to tackle climate change at the summit. The European Union, for instance, didn’t go along with environmentalists’ wishes and set a goal to be carbon neutral by mid-century out of fear that such ambitions would tank its member state’s struggling economies.

“Large parts of the mainstream media have stopped pretending to strive for objectivity in their reporting,” Myron Ebell, a climate skeptic, and director of the Competitive Enterprise Institute’s Center for Energy and Environment told the DCNF. “On the climate issue, many outlets and reporters are now publicly boasting about the fact that they are promoting their own prejudices on the grounds that increasing global energy poverty is a noble cause.”

Ebell was not the only energy advocate to criticize the program. “This is nothing more than what used to be known as ‘civic journalism’ … or propaganda for the left dressed up as news reporting,” Steve Milloy, JunkScience.com publisher, told the DCNF. He also suggested the media are being hypocritical. They would thrash the fossil fuel industry if it attempted to recruit reporters in a quest to support natural gas, Milloy said.

Much Of The Content Was Not Disclosed

BuzzFeed News and HuffPost did not divulge their participation in Covering Climate Now in any of the articles they published on climate change during that week, according to a DCNF review of the project. They never mention the words “Covering Climate Now” in any of their posts during the week-long coverage leading up to the climate summit.

HuffPost did not respond to numerous requests for comment while BuzzFeed News said the partnership did not affect the outlet’s coverage. “Our coverage of climate change is year-round and unaffected by outside partnerships,” Matt Mittenthal, a spokesman for BuzzFeed, told the DCNF.

Covering Climate Now published a list of articles on its website throughout September that promoted climate coverage.

Nearly 40 of the articles on the list of 128 failed to mention the project. The list included pieces from CBS News, Bloomberg News, and The Nation, all of whom produced pieces that failed to mention their participation in an outside project designed to direct their editorial bent. Many of the articles on the list bore labels containing the words “Covering Climate Now” but do not otherwise explain what the project entails or which groups are involved.

CBS News, which has not returned requests for comment, produced a Sept. 21 feature on clearcutting in Oregon that did not include a disclosure. The title of that feature was “Who should be in charge of America’s ancient forests: industry or environmentalists?” which discussed the impact clearing U.S. forests has on the environment and if private companies should be allowed to use forests.

CBS News included disclosures on articles throughout September that discuss how Americans feel about climate change. The channel also mentioned its participation in a Sept. 17 feature highlighting how U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is considering a summit to discuss ways of re-invigorating the Paris Climate Agreement, which he says needs to be re-booted.

Bloomberg News, for its part, published a statement on Sept. 16 announcing its role in the project, but the outlet still produced content that did not contain disclosures. The outlet published a Sept. 22 article titled “Big Oil Prepares to Defend Big Gas as Climate Week Begins,” which discusses how the oil industry is defending the use of natural gas as a clean alternative to coal. The article did not mention the outlet’s participation in Covering Climate Now.

Former New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg founded Bloomberg News. Bloomberg, who flirted with the idea of running for president in 2020 and filed in the paperwork to participate in Alabama’s Democratic primary, has devoted much of his philanthropic work to funding various anti-coal projects. Bloomberg News has not responded to the DCNF’s request for comment.

The Nation, Covering Climate Now’s co-founder, published a 2,400-word article on Sept. 18 with an alarmist headline suggesting that Americans are “fueling the next global extinction.” The piece did not contain a disclosure but notes that it was originally published by Tom Engelhardt at TomDispatch.com, though the DCNF was unable to locate the article on Engelhardt’s website.

The Nation, which announced the project in a July post, also published a journalistic piece on Sept. 19 by Nation associate editor Zoe Carpenter that fails to mention Covering Climate Now. Nobody from the outlet has responded to requests for comment.

Wealthy Climate Activists Also Participated

Covering Climate Now was aided by wealthy advocacy groups, some of which help journalists edit and craft stories discussing climate change from an alarmist perspective. One nonprofit group associated with the project is Climate Central, which provides extensive guidance to reporters.

“We contribute data and charts plus a science reporter and an editor,” the group’s website notes. “For a text story, we help craft a feature in a way that puts climate change in an appropriate and accurate context. For broadcast media, we provide story and interview suggestions and help develop and review scripts.”

Climate Central has not responded to the DCNF’s request for detailed information about how it contributes to journalists’ content. The group is funded in part by the Energy Foundation, a charity providing grants to various groups with the hope of transitioning the U.S. away from fossil fuels.

Is This Ethical?

Reuters did not participate in the project, yet its editors did not object when Yereth Rosen, a freelancer for the wire service, contributed. Reuters, which opposes advocacy journalism, dismissed any suggestion that Rosen’s contributions are inappropriate.

“We do not see this cause in conflict with the Trust Principles. All stories, under the Trust Principles, are required to be accurate, fair, and free from bias. Ms. Rosen’s work for Reuters has been exemplary in this regard,” Brian Ross, Reuters’s ethics and standards representative, wrote in an Aug. 15 email reviewed by The DCNF.

Ross was responding to an Aug. 13 email complaint from a former reporter who was concerned about Rosen’s role in Covering Climate Now. The person made the complaint through the outlet’s online support option. Reuters was more circumspect in later emails to the DCNF on the subject.

“While we do not comment on individuals in our newsroom, all Reuters journalists, including freelancers, are bound by our Trust Principles of ‘integrity, independence, and freedom from bias,’” Heather Carpenter, a spokeswoman for Reuters, told the DCNF.

“Our journalists are to remain free from personal conflicts on the subjects they are assigned to cover,” she added. Reuters has not made Rosen available for comment nor did it address whether it is appropriate to allow an external group to dictate what content its reporters publish.

The Society of Professional Journalists, however, criticized the lack of transparency. (RELATED: UN’s New Report Shows There’s ‘Little Basis’ For A Favorite Claim Of Climate Activists)

“We encourage journalists to be transparent,” Lynn Walsh, a national member and former president of the Society of Professional Journalists, one of the oldest groups representing journalists, told the DCNF. “If they did not include any disclosure there is nothing we can do though. SPJ is not a regulatory body.” She went on to say that any group involved must explain exactly what the project entails.

Why Didn’t WaPo And The NYT Contribute?

Most legacy media are unwilling to break away from the idea that journalism should not advocate for a position, according to Hertsgaard, who co-founded Covering Climate Now in part to impress upon journalists the importance of covering climate without feeling compelled to provide a platform to climate skeptics.

“The New York Times is not on there, The Wall Street Journal is not on there, The Washington Post is not on there,” Hertsgaard said in a September podcast with Kyle Pope, editor, and publisher of CJR. Hertsgaard was referring to the major outlets that did not contribute content to Covering Climate Now.

“This has an aroma — in their minds — of activism,” Hertsgaard continued, explaining why the big three legacy outlets preferred not to join. He and Pope noted Covering Climate Now intends on breaking up that perception by wrapping climate coverage in the blanket of science rather than politics.

The Post refused to comment for this story. The NYT, WSJ, and Hertsgaard have not responded to the DCNF’s request for comment.

Advocacy-style journalism is the new in-thing, according to David Blackmon, an independent consultant, and analyst who has nearly 40 years of experience in the energy industry.

“I don’t think that anyone would object to any of it if they were upfront about their agenda,” he told the DCNF. “There’s no effort to properly identify agenda-driven pieces. They are backed up with factual information, but it usually tells just half the story. It’s become the norm.”

Blackmon, a Forbes contributor, noted that much of the reporting is one-sided and focuses exclusively on one narrative: Climate change must be stopped at any cost. Such reporting rarely gives coverage to the economic consequences of climate activists’ preferred policies, he noted.

“We are at a point where we were at the turn of the 21st century,” Blackmon told the DCNF. “You had partisan affiliated outlets and almost no objective journalism at all. We’ve gone to that place for a period of time.

Posted by admin in Climate Change, Environment, Europe
Greta Thunberg awarded children’s international peace prize

Greta Thunberg awarded children’s international peace prize

The international organization for the defense of children’s rights KidsRights on Friday awarded its International Children’s Peace Prize to the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg (16) and Divina Malorum (14) from Cameroon.

The award ceremony will take place on November 20 near The Hague (Netherlands) on World Children’s Day.

Both winners were selected from among 137 candidates from 56 countries for the prize, celebrating its fifteenth birthday and involving 1.2 billion people last year, according to KidsRights.

Divina founded the association Children for Peace in Cameroon in order to warn of the recruitment of children to join armed groups in the country, the target of terrorist attacks since 2014, and to consolidate its participation in the peace-building process and sustainable development. The C4P network now numbers 100 children living in the country’s ten regions.

“She gives them the means to be actors in the change and encourages them to take part in peace initiatives within their communities. She has organized an inter-community peace camp for children, set up peace clubs in mosques, and, with other children, drafted a children’s declaration condemning violent extremism,” Kids Rights explained.

As for Greta Thunberg, she is a role model in terms of international student climate activism, according to the organization. Following a period of depression lasting months when she stopped eating, going to school, and speaking, the young Swede resolved to make changes in her own life concerning climate matters. She avoids flying, eats neither meat nor dairy products, and never buys anything new, KidsRights pointed out.

Then, in August 2018, she pepped up and proceed to express herself. Inspired by the March for Our Lives movement and winner of the International Children’s Peace Prize 2018, she effectively sat down in front of the Swedish parliament with a banner of her own making on which “skolstrejk för climate” (school strike for the climate) was written. Greta Thunberg has since become an international figure in the fight against climate change.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a patron of KidsRights and the prize it has been awarding for more than ten years, addressed the winners with a personal message. “I have much admiration for you. Your powerful message is amplified by your youthful energy and unshakeable convictions according to which children have the capacity, if not the duty, to better their own futures. You are true actors for change and have shown in the most potent way there is that children can take the world forward.”

Posted by admin in Climate Change, Culture, Environment, Women & Children
Third Brussels Youth Climate March goes global

Third Brussels Youth Climate March goes global

El Pais, Le Monde, the New York Times, The Australian, the BBC…the third Brussels Youth Climate March, which on Thursday brought together 35,000 participants, is echoed in all of the international press.“These youngsters will continue their once a week march, as long as the government takes no action,” stresses El Pais. The Spanish daily is citing Reuters, mentioning that Brussels is regularly flagged up as one of the most bottlenecked cities in Europe. 

The New York Times, also citing Reuters, reports the clear figures for the pro-climate demonstration, also stressing the permanent congestion of the Belgian capital and Europe. “This is a sign of shame for the city where the European Union fixes European Climate Policy,” reports the American daily’s website. 

“The third Brussels Youth Climate March was a success,” reports the Dutch daily, Algemeen Dagblad, which also mentions the various gatherings organized in other Belgian cities, was tested with rapid antigen test and then they took part in the gathering, RAT is very important for all gathering.

No initiative of this kind has been seen in the Netherlands as yet. However, environmental organizations have planned a march in Amsterdam for 10th March this year.  

Le Monde further mentions a “pro-climate school strikes” movement, of an unexpected magnitude, “going beyond Belgium’s traditional linguistic divisions,” youngsters coming from Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels. “Four ministers, no concrete policy,” the daily moreover reports, citing a slogan displayed by a student in Brussels. 

“We will continue until the politicians finally act,” confided one of the youngsters on the Climate March to the BBC, which also found its way amongst the demonstration. “We came here with those in years 7 and 8. It is actually more like a school trip. Our teacher organized it so we are not missing school,” stated another student to the British channel, which was gathering information on the demonstrator’s motivations.

On its website, The Australian disseminated a video of Thursday’s march. In November, thousands of pupils had also played truant across the country to demand concrete action by the Government. The movement “Strike 4 Climate Action” had been inspired by Greta Thunberg, the Swedish teenager who in a few weeks became a global figure for pro-climate militantism.

Having inspired thousands of pupils across the world, including Belgium, Germany, Australia, Canada, and Switzerland, she has called for an international school strike on 15th March. On Thursday, she moreover described as “heroes” the young Belgians who had skipped classes to demand ambitious political measures against global warming. 

The “New China Agency” (Xinhua) which had already supported the movement at the beginning of January, devoted a story to the march by 35,000 participants. “The demonstrations, five times more significant than a week earlier, gathered together students from all levels of education,” flagged up the Chinese agency, citing slogans such as “Make Belgium Great Again” or “Cool Kids Against Global Warning”. A further demonstration is due to take place, this Sunday 27thJanuary, initiated by the citizen collective “Rise for Climate Belgium”.

Posted by admin in Climate Change, Environment, Europe, Featured, News