by Gary Varvel, originally uploaded by the Health Advocate.

The World Health Organization has now increased it’s pandemic alert to phase 5 which means there has been human-to-human spread of the H1N1 virus (swine flu) into two or more countries.  Most of the cartoonist commenting on the recent events surrounding swine influenza took the ‘just when you thought it couldn’t get any worse approach’ but this piece by Varvel was just a little bit different. In underscoring some of the basics for avoiding the spread of contagious disease, it actually made me chuckle. What about you?

by Gary Markstein, originally uploaded by the Health Advocate.

Here’s your latest dose of laughs. While this piece by Markstein made me laugh, I really don’t agree with the politics behind it. Those of you who read Monday’s post will understand since that post was a response to this cartoon. After you’ve enjoyed this piece of satire and read my response to it, be sure to drop me a comment telling me just what you think about ARRA provisions for research funding and the like.

by Clay Bennett

Tell me me what you think. Was the previous administration antagonistic towards the science, research and development sectors of the American economy? I’ve already voiced my opinion of the matter in a previous post. Please leave me a comment (or send me an email, if you prefer) to tell me why you agree or disagree with me.

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by Bruce Beattie

By executive order, the ban against federal funding for stem cell research has been removed. What are the implications for biomedical research in America? How much ground have we lost in our progress towards treatments and cures in traumatic brain injury and Parkinson’s disease, for example. Are our systems of bioethical oversight robust and competent enough to handle the responsible application of this powerful technology? I’m curious to know just what you think, so leave a comment.

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by M. Wuerker (in Politico March 5, 2009)

Many stakeholders and special interest groups may become uneasy as the Administration makes progress towards reforming health care. Considering the current state of the system, can we really make things worse or is there nowhere to go but up? Leave me a comment and tell me what you think about this week’s satire feature.

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by Beeler

You’ve heard the old saying, laughter is the best medicine. Well it truly is. Starting this week, we will feature a work of political satire hoping in the process, to provoke and entertain you. In today’s, piece by Beeler I’m curious to know: in its current state, is the health care system as good for us as a Big Mac? Leave me comment and let me know.

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