zlacker

>>nnx+(OP)
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/covid-lab-theory-robert-redfiel...

CBS News, yesterday:

Kristian G. Andersen, director of the infectious disease genomics, translational research institute at Scripps Research, noted that "We know that the first epidemiologically linked cluster of cases came from the Hunan market and we know the virus was found in environmental samples — including animal cages — at the market," he said. "Any 'lab leak' theory would have to account for that scenario — which it simply can't, without invoking a major conspiracy and cover up by Chinese scientists and authorities."

>>Milner+1m1
We know that patient 0 was not at the market, and that people at the market got infected.

So, perfectly valid scenario:

1. Scientists do controversial Gain-of-function research by collecting viruses from miles away and importing them to Wuhan.

2. Lab leak happens

3. First linked clusters pop up a few miles away in a rather unsanitary market, with plenty of reservoirs and infection possibilities.

4. Virus is found in environmental samples, including animal cages and pets and frozen foods, in Hunan market and else.

The only thing indirectly invoking a major conspiracy here, is the possibility: lab leak happens.

Or you know, you can account for a scenario, where Chinese authorities covered up a major conspiracy (Don't be afraid! It's only reason over authority!). I thought we were already at the point where this is common sense knowledge. Or else we would know what exactly is going on in those Uyghur concentration camps, but all we can do is estimate the extend of this inhumane conspiracy.

>>2-tpg+oB1
What's frustrating about this is I feel like it doesn't matter how much evidence there is for the emerging consensus that it emerged from an animal at the market.

The counter-argument is still always, "Yes, yes, but what if instead of that maybe it somehow came from a badly-run lab instead?"

>>Milner+eG1
It is also frustrating to hear:

- Ah.. It came from the meat market (official positions) - Likely from live bats - Who are not sold at that meat market - Who are hybernating - Who come from a cave 900 miles away

Yes, yes, but what if instead it maybe came from a badly-run lab studying that exact bat just a few miles away?

- We strongly condemn any theory that may lead to the suggestion that it came from the lab. You are directly insulting the work of our Chinese colleagues, threatening our relations in Gain-of-Function research and funding, and furthering harmful conspiracy theories accusing the Chinese authorities of a cover-up. I, Peter Daszak, will do a thorough investigation into the origins, which all responsible scientists have already concluded is natural in origin.