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October 30, 2009
Live Blog from the Anchor Desk 10/30/09
Posted: 09:45 PM ET
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At least 19 more children have died of swine flu in the U.S.  That's the biggest one-week jump. Dr. Sanjay Gupta joins us with the latest on the battle against the virus.  Plus, your economy and the mixed signals. Is the economy rebounding or not? We've got the raw politics.

Want to know what else we're covering? Read EVENING BUZZ

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163 Comments
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163 Comments
Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:00 pm ET

Helloooo John King (Anderson), Erica, Ed Henry, David Gergen Martina Ilstad, Emily and my friends Twitter/Facebook Bloggers!!!!!
Thank God It's Friday night!!! Couldn't wait this weekend........ And Happy Halloween everyone! :)

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:01 pm ET

Good evening everyone, John King, Erica, Bloggers and AC360 Team – Happy Halloween. I hope the H1N1 doesn't affect Halloween. I think people now need to look for sanitary candy. :-D

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:02 pm ET

Hi John King! Hi Erica, and entire Team 360! TGIF

Hi fellow chatters..TGIF

Curtis - SoCal   October 30th, 2009 10:02 pm ET

@John King, will your kids be getting the H1N1 vaccine when it's available?

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:03 pm ET

Happy Friday John King, Erica, Martina, Megan & Bloggers!

Curtis - SoCal   October 30th, 2009 10:03 pm ET

I wish I could get an H1N1. It's just not available.

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:03 pm ET

Good evening everyone,
John King,very nice to see you here again.... Erica, Bloggers and AC360 Team

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:03 pm ET

That is so awful to hear 19 children death due swine flu, My heart goes to them! :(

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:03 pm ET

@ Gady CA

You know you're right, i never thought about unwrapped candy or fruit.

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:04 pm ET

I hope that the H1N1 virus doesn't add more fear to the parents of kids and prevent them from going out on Halloween night tomorrow!

Mike, formerly from Syracuse   October 30th, 2009 10:05 pm ET

So it sounds like the H1N1 strain is just another strain of flu and no big deal. The MSM has created a panic where none is required.

John Lindley   October 30th, 2009 10:05 pm ET

Hey Anderson –

I see that the Pentagon will offer the H1N1 vaccination to detainees at the U.S. facility at Guantanamo. What about the Americans that can't get the shot due to shortage. What are they thinking?

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:05 pm ET

Curtis – SoCal
You need get swine flu shot right now, I had already flu shot 2 days ago.

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:06 pm ET

Why is this virus hitting children so hard?

Truly, i pray that the H1N1 vaccine gets to everyone who needs ASAP.

Renee   October 30th, 2009 10:07 pm ET

@ Curtis: Just keep calling around place to place. Check a local drugstore too or at the mall. It is readily available in my area of Florida.

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:07 pm ET

@Gady & starr,
Thank goodness for all those hand sanitizers!
It's sad to think that Halloween may be coming to this! :(

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:08 pm ET

Gady Mayen – Hamilton, Canada
Yes! You're right.... I hope taking careful for you and us give some candies to kids.

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:08 pm ET

@ Gady CA
You're right,
I always purchase individually wrapped candy! I would never let my son eat anything that was not wrapped.

melissa   October 30th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

If my child got the nasal vaccine, how quickly is it effective? There is h1n1 in his school currently (4 confirmed cases) and received the vaccine on Tuesday.

Curtis - SoCal   October 30th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

Wait a minute. What are the chances of the swine flu finding its' way to Gitmo? Vaccines for Gitmo detainees doesn't quite make sense.

Isabel Siaba, Brazil   October 30th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

Good evening John, Erica, David (Indiana), friends and bloggers!

My week is been complicated and, unfortunately, it was difficult to be here, but HAPPY FRIDAY and HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

What happened to the reports that there were high levels of mercury in the vaccine?

Renee   October 30th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

@ Curtis: Check the airport too as Tampa International has on site swine flu shots. So check LAX too.

David, Indiana   October 30th, 2009 10:09 pm ET

Good evening John King, Erica, Isabel, everyone. Happy Halloween!Sorry to be a bit getting here late.

Annemarie Powderly   October 30th, 2009 10:10 pm ET

I find it very wrong to recommend a vaccine for pregnant women when that vaccine contains mercury!

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:10 pm ET

John Lindley
Exactly!!! Good point and question! Me too, I second that.....

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:11 pm ET

@ Megan Dresslar – Shoreline, WA

There are just too many people in California. Southern Calif has 30-35 million people. Difficult to find enough flu shots.

I have checked with the local government along with the state. There are non for Southern California. Los Angeles had some but just ran out...

Very sad. Our population may decrease by alot

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:11 pm ET

there are people that are working at Gitmo, (want them to stay healthy!), and those that are there, they are still needed to provide information, are they not?

John King
CNN
  October 30th, 2009 10:11 pm ET

Hi, everyone. Hope you're all doing well on this Halloween Eve.

Sondra   October 30th, 2009 10:11 pm ET

Hello. Speaking of the H1N1 virus and Halloween, is it a good idea to have your children going to strangers homes and getting candy-along with whatever germs that are on the wrapper? Should children (and parents) use hand sanitizer after every house?

Richie Stein - Oswego, NY   October 30th, 2009 10:11 pm ET

Dear Sanjay,

I am a college student at SUNY Oswego, a state university run by New York State. NYS just issued a state of emergency for the H1N1 virus and is trying to get more vaccines. 2 classmates of mine have the Swine Flu. The college has set up thousands of hand sanitizer dispensers around the college and is promoting hand washing and other tips to keep healthy. All of us as students are doing what we can ON campus. But most of us don't feel safe. What can we do?

Thanks

Kris   October 30th, 2009 10:11 pm ET

If the children who are dying of H1N1 also have bacterial pneumonia (2ndary infection) , should we be vaccinating our children for pneumonia (pneumococcal)?

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:11 pm ET

@John Lindley, They're probably thinking that they don't want our military to get sick!

Curtis - SoCal   October 30th, 2009 10:12 pm ET

Leave it to Arnold to speak the truth.

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:12 pm ET

@ Anna. Yes that is another concern. Not only that, but after the shot, if in fact it is OK, it will take several weeks for your immune system to fully work.

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:13 pm ET

There is NOT enough for the American public that want it?!

Sondra   October 30th, 2009 10:13 pm ET

Guantanamo Bay should have ONLY basic medical care; definitely nothing better than the poorest of American citizens.

Avis   October 30th, 2009 10:13 pm ET

I'm 11 yrs into kidney transplant, diabetic & recently had surgery. 45 year old female. Should I get the H1N1 shot?

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:14 pm ET

I'm a teacher and I don' t have a job. The districts in and around St. .Louis, MO aren't hiring. They're just combining classrooms.

Mike, formerly from Syracuse   October 30th, 2009 10:14 pm ET

No detainees should get a single shot until every American who wants one gets it.

Jean   October 30th, 2009 10:14 pm ET

If the live virus in Flu Mist Vaccine is "attenuated" so that it is not
dangerous, why can it not be given to people above age 49?
Also, If it is a weakened strain which is "shed" for 21 hours after
someone is given the vax, wouldn't that effectively boost the
immunity of people who came into contact with the shed virus?

Karen   October 30th, 2009 10:15 pm ET

You can talk to me about where the government sends vaccine when the pharmas stop letting their employees vaccinate their healthy older kids first. Yes, that's right. I know someone who works for one and their kid above nine, perfectly healthy got their shots earlier this week when others can't.

Jessica   October 30th, 2009 10:15 pm ET

I am a 29yr old law student and do not fall into the CDC standards of those that are at high risk (based on the 24yr old max limit). But, I am in the classroom with, and exposed on a daily basis to those that do fall within the age limit restrictions. And they are deemed high risk. What makes me any different? Should I really be denied the vaccine when those around me are receiving the vaccine? Or should I be an exception?

Mike   October 30th, 2009 10:15 pm ET

My son has h1n1 and developed Bacterial Pneumonia...does this mean he is at risk to die! Please be clearer when reporting Dr. G! Please clearify tonight during the show PLEASE!

Catherine   October 30th, 2009 10:15 pm ET

Inmates recieving the H1N1 vaccination... Wow what is wrong with this situation? There is no vaccinations available in our area. This is not fair! I have 4 children and have searched all clinics/cities to recieve... Why would the government allow this to occur? 1 death is 1 too many. This doesnt make any sense!

Lisa St Paul, MN   October 30th, 2009 10:15 pm ET

The Republicans just will never give credit where credit is due.

Pat   October 30th, 2009 10:15 pm ET

I think the media is wonderful. They know whats best, huh.

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:16 pm ET

I'm not getting that shot. I don't think it's that big of a deal and I'm not sure they know how safe it is. I believe in chicken soup, water, and multi-vitamins.

Mike, formerly from Syracuse   October 30th, 2009 10:16 pm ET

There is absolutely no way to verify the 650,000 number. The only certain thing is that unemployment has gotten worse by 3 million more lost jobs since Obama took office.

vic nashville, tn   October 30th, 2009 10:16 pm ET

Bush Borrow money from China for the war in Iraq

Now we are borrowing to recover the economy

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:16 pm ET

The Job Market has changed forever!

Many jobs have been phased out, and others are done by computers, etc.

Many people are working full time in part time hours, or are in contract work.

Annemarie Powderly   October 30th, 2009 10:17 pm ET

The mercury is used as a preservative. Mercury is a toxin which affects all cells with a special affinity for nervecells. The mercury is labeled as Thiomersal (there are variations on the name but it is the same thing, 68% mercury). I firmly believe that it is not worth the risk to take the vaccine. Especially nervous tissue (brain tissue etc) in development, for example children og and fetus , is vulnerable!

Sarah   October 30th, 2009 10:17 pm ET

I can't belive they are giving the H1N1 vaccine to prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. I can't get the vaccine for my 9 month old daughter due to the military base that my husband is stationed at not having it. Maybe people should stop being stupid and give the vaccine to those who actually need it.

Sondra   October 30th, 2009 10:17 pm ET

I live in NY, on Long Island (Eastern Suffolk County). Does anybody know of companies that are hiring? The government should increase funds to people trying to start businesses, legalize marijuana (which would create a huge number of jobs, help people with healthcare, the taxes could offset the cost of American healthcare for everyone...), and towns should be given opportunities to create updated and modern youth centers to stop growing crime, create jobs, and make towns better.

Jennifer - AZ   October 30th, 2009 10:17 pm ET

The administration did not say the unemployment rate would not go above 8.x%; economists estimated that figure but warned of a margin of error. If Mike can predict the future any better – please do.

carolyn j   October 30th, 2009 10:18 pm ET

hello, ALL.

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:18 pm ET

I agree with Pence (sp) that while there is a shortage of vaccine, prisoners at GITMO should go without.

However, as a primarily Chistian culture, i am amazed that Pence feels that we should not treat our enemies with some compassion (even though i recognize that they might not do the same for us).

And, i respectfully disagree that insurance health reform is a government takeover.

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:18 pm ET

@Sondra. I wish the poorest Americans had health care.

Erica Hill
CNN
  October 30th, 2009 10:18 pm ET

OOPS! John King was still logged in on my laptop – that was me with the Halloween Eve greeting. My apologies.

@Mike – We have no interest in hyping H1N1 at AC360 or concerning anyone unnecessarily. Our goal every day is to give you the facts, and this is a story which is front and center, constantly being updated.

On a personal note, I have spoken with a number of doctors over the past few weeks – from Sanjay to the physicians who are frequent contributors at CBS, where I work on Saturdays, to friends – and they believe this flu strain is serious and should be taken as such. As a non-medical professional, I trust their judgement. I also do my best – especially as a parent - to make sure I am keeping myself and my family well-informed on this virus.

David Gergen   October 30th, 2009 10:19 pm ET

Hello everyone –

Good to see you here tonight. Isn't John King doing a great job sitting in for Anderson this week? A couple of other questions for you.

Do you think that the government has done a good job in providing H1N1 vaccine?

What should the President do about sending troops to Afghanistan if there is no new election - and Karzai remains in power as a result of what has been a fraudulent election?

Thanks. David

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:19 pm ET

@Dodie ~ California,
Sounds like things in California are esp. difficult right now!

I hope that things will get better for you there soon.

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:20 pm ET

Dodie ~ California,
Yes, it is run out of swine flu most states, I know it is very scary thought, But I have also hear my hometown also run out of swine flu too... I agree with you.

cicly   October 30th, 2009 10:20 pm ET

hey erica & john; can anyone tell me how long someone is contagious once they have the flu? i thought my girl would go back to school today after the flu, but that cough! no cough during the day, but at night, it's hard for her to sleep, then so tired in the morning...me, no flu yet.

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:20 pm ET

Man, I am so tired of being out of work. I've applied to about 500 jobs in the past two months. Literally. I can say that the internet is not helping. Everyone wants you to apply online instead of going to the company and being able to meet someone and sell yourself a little while you're applying.

Lee_Milwaukee   October 30th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

As long as they use the same adjuvant in the H1NI vaccine, "Squalene" that has been associated with Gulf war syndrome I will take the shot but with extreme fear for my future

Sherley   October 30th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

Tell me why the politicians talk against eachother badly and not try and find solutions as one. Why are they so negative. They are supose to lead by example ..... no wonder people are so negative

Sherley
Thunder Bay , Ontario Canada

Mike, formerly from Syracuse   October 30th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

@Erica, it seems that we could have had facts on the H1N1 mortality rate being less than or equal to seasonal flu months ago. Why is this info just coming out?

Susan   October 30th, 2009 10:22 pm ET

Why is the Pneumonia shot not being recomended? It seems complications from that type of infection are the most dangerous.

Robert   October 30th, 2009 10:22 pm ET

What happened to being humane? Of corse Guantanamo Bay inmates should be vaccinated. Only a narrow minded American would think in such selfish, demonstrative terms to think no one deserved to be treated humanely.

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

Good evening Erica! :)

Thanks for the extra info. on the H1N1 flu virus.
I hope that all is well with your health! :P

Sherley   October 30th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

Once you get the H1N1 do u have to get it every year after that or is it good only one time

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

@ Gergen. I miss Anderson, he's cute.

Cammie   October 30th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

Sorry, another hypocrite Republican – they speak out of both sides, talk the talk but don't walk the walk! While the congressman talks to John King about how American families and children (re:H1N1 vaccine) are most important and that the Obama administration is so wrong YET the republicans in the senate have block Extended Unemployment Benefits 4 times in 5 weeks to American families who are in crisis!!! They don't care about unemployed American's and many families have fallen off the radar due to their obstruction.

Casey Jones - Palm Springs, CA   October 30th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

Obama lifts HIV travel ban! Hallelujah–rational thinking.

Mike, formerly from Syracuse   October 30th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

@Anna, I've been trying to fill two positions for weeks and can't find qualified applicants.

Ryan   October 30th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

My wife and I were watching your report on the H1N1 virus and we want to know one thing, why is it that they are giving healthy inmates the vaccine and you have kids here dying from it probably because they can't get the vaccine? I have 2 kids now and my wife is pregnant. 1 child is 6 and one is under 2 years. I can't get the vaccine for them until after Thanksgiving. I'm sorry that it completely unacceptable. Get your priorities straight. Get the our children protected before you get a bunch of criminals protected.

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:25 pm ET

LOL Erica!!!!!!!!! OUCH! I know you're so funny woman!!!!! Just happened to anyone too. :)

David, Indiana   October 30th, 2009 10:25 pm ET

@Isabel, nice to see you here, missed you.

Rep Pence is my congressman actually and it's good to see him, but it is the responsibility of the govt to offer detainees the H1N1 vaccine. I hope the congressman is not suggesting that the govt should not offer necessary medical care to captive prisoners smack dab in the middle of a world wide pandemic.

He is right about job creation. Clinton was focused like a laser on that as I remember, but also I've been hearing all summer that employment would be a lagging indicator, and overall economic growth a leading indicator. As to 2400 jobs created or not created by INDOT, I have dig into that myself, but didn't hear a complete answer from the congressman

It will be interesting to see what Republicans propose when it comes to health care. There are questions about the Dems proposed ins mandates, but I feel there's lots of work to be done to get down to workable healthcare reform.

A great intvw and discussion John King.

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:25 pm ET

@Mike, formerly from Syracuse,
IT could be because many of these people have also passed away with a secondary cause of death...it takes time for them to conduct the autopsy and then collect all the data!

Stacy   October 30th, 2009 10:25 pm ET

@Mike: I agree that the fact-checking, debunking, and context regarding H1N1 could have been more timely. But better late than never? I appreciate the current reporting.

Casey Jones - Palm Springs, CA   October 30th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

@David Gergen "Do you think that the government has done a good job in providing H1N1 vaccine?"

Honestly, how would we know? That's kind of a loaded question, isn't it? Seems everything is working fine but, typical of the American public, we want a quick fix to everything.

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

After getting sick on Thursday, I thought now carry pills and hand sanitizer with me. I can't afford to take time off from college. What does the college care. They have my money, they don't care if I come or not. ...

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

I'm 29 and once I do get a job I'm going to save my money and act like the next Great Depression is coming, cause I think it is. There should be no reason for me to personally know seven college grads (some with masters) who WERE employed, but now aren't. I make eight. We're too young to not work!! I'm just glad I haven't started a family yet!

Dulcie - Denver   October 30th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

@David Gergen,

I don't really understand why everyone is blaming the government for the lack of H1N1 vaccine. The government can't distribute what it doesn't have. (Well, money aside, but that's a different issue) It took longer to make the vaccine than planned. Seems to me the lack of foresight rests at the feet of the manufacturers, not the government.

Yeah, I don't get it.

cicly   October 30th, 2009 10:26 pm ET

hey erica; it's standard practice all the time at our house to wash hands as soon as you come in( and hum "happy birthday" song while washing,) and for a long time now we've been stocked up on hand sanitizer. it's a bit un-nerving at this time with children,isn't it?

Sondra   October 30th, 2009 10:27 pm ET

Everyone should have healthcare. Watch the documentary Sicko (Michael Moore, it's really good) and see a different side than the one doctors, hospitals, HMO's, etc. are saying. And we don't have to make it exactly the same as other countries. And doctors keep raising prices for those w/o insurance. They accept insurance to write some prescriptions but not others; I've seen doctors charge insurance and co-pay, then demand $200 in the exam room and pocket the money to give you the prescription for medicine that you need. Problems? What happened to the hippocratic oath?

Joe   October 30th, 2009 10:27 pm ET

Why is it that presumed terrorists are being offered the H1N1 vaccine and our 11 year old asthmatic son can't get the vaccine due to the unavailability of the vaccine? Ironic given the fact that the terrorists don't value life. Hopefully, no innocent child will die due to a terrorist being innoculated.

Manuel-=-Reno Nv.   October 30th, 2009 10:28 pm ET

it is important to discuss H1N1 and children.should but, give more info on seniors like myself–78 yrs old with asthma and COPD.otherwise in good health.

Erica Hill
CNN
  October 30th, 2009 10:29 pm ET

@Mike – the CDC has been releasing weekly updates on the outbreak re: number of states and mortality rates, including children, weekly and we have been bringing them to you weekly. I know we have talked about these numbers in relation to typical seasonal flu mortality rates in the past, as well.

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:29 pm ET

@ David Gergen, Hi, glad to see you on the blog tonigt with two excellent questions too.

On the vaccine, i think there are so many variables when making a vaccine, that this delay is explanable. What i am concerned about is how the regular flu shots are not avilable.

On Afganistan, the President faces a multitude of problems on many levels in that war. Dealing with an illigitimate government makes his decision even harder. I beleive that power sharing is the Only way to go. If no power share, Karsai has to resign.

However, we cannot leave because of the staregic nature of Afganistan. We definitely need more help from NATO too. And, not just military.

Monika   October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

I'm 29 weeks pregnant. The vaccine is not even availble here where I live. It makes me furious that they are even talking about having the vaccine available to GITMO inmates...they should be the last ones on the list.

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

David Gergen
I agree with you, John King is doing great job for Anderson, I also miss Anderson this week..... He is so cute! :)
I think that people have to get H1N1 vaccine shot or don't want take shot, I got flu shot also 2 days ago..... It help me feel better and strong enough.

Barry Ciota   October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

province by province to determine troops?
thats time wasting!

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

@ Cammie

Very well stated. I completely agree. I bet all the people in Congress have their children vaccinated if they wanted to. I also feel you are right on target... they do not care about the unemployed or those that fell off radar. It really stinks!!! Its hard for me to even discuss this with out getting angry.

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

@David Gergen,

I think that John King has been doing a great job filling in for Anderson also....

I think that Pres. Obama Should sent troops, however if he will or not, is another question.
What about the fact that Karzai's brother is working for the CIA!
(Can you believe that?!)

Suzanne   October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

Why do prisioners get the H1N1 shot before school children or anyone imune supressed. I have a daughter that is chronically ill and we are still waiting for the shot. The prisioners will get there's before my child? How does that rate?

Erica Hill
CNN
  October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

@Sherley – it's my understanding that, like the seasonal flu, this vaccine is only good for the current strain of H1N1

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:30 pm ET

I thought the Afghan election stuff was over, or was that Iraq??

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:31 pm ET

@starr,
I think that there will be more help from NATO, (not sure how much), when there is more US troops there...and I think that they have to be back there!

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:32 pm ET

@ Erica Hill

We have just too many people in Southern California. I think we number between 30 – 35 million and growing exponentially. It will be very difficult to get enough vaccine to everyone who wants it in this area....

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:33 pm ET

Am I the only one that thinks they are giving H1N1 vaccines to inmates because they don't want the military to get sick? Maybe I'm naive. I dunno, I'm young...but it seems to make sense to me.

Mike, formerly from Syracuse   October 30th, 2009 10:33 pm ET

@David Gergen,
President Obama needs to provide the troops McCrystal says he needs. Biden is dead wrong, Obama is waffling. The death toll is going up daily while Obama is out campaigning and going to fundraisers. I'm disgusted.

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:33 pm ET

@ ERICA CNN- Erica, how can we tell apart the H1N1, the second strain of H1N1 and the regular flu? All I know is that I got sick on Thursday to the point that I was going to collapse. :-D

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:35 pm ET

That was a great panel with David, Michael, and Dan!
Interesting points about Afghanistan and that region!

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:36 pm ET

Erica,
Yes, I agree with you..... I know what they need get swine flu or flu shot, I agree with Dr. Sanjay Gupta, I know it is very important get shot. Thanks for telling us about H1N1 vaccine, it is really important.

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:37 pm ET

@ Gady Mayen – Hamilton, Canada

I understand how you feel. I had the flu over a month ago and still have residual affects, landed in my lungs and a terrible head cold. Its been over 4 weeks and I am still sick....

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:37 pm ET

You couldn't pay me enough to take that shot...I usually get a flu shot because I'm a teacher and usually around kids all day. But not this year.

Karen   October 30th, 2009 10:37 pm ET

Odd. Pregnant women and high risk children have been getting vaccine here for at least a week. I wonder how our state (NE) gets vaccine before others. I have to wonder how the decision is made to send what where. Are there clinics that were behind on requesting?

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:38 pm ET

@Mike,
Sorry to hear about your son!
I'll keep him in mind...I hope that he is healthy soon! :)

Crystal Moore, Fairfax, VA   October 30th, 2009 10:39 pm ET

Heather stated repeatedly "I'm not resisting arrest". Why would continue to handle her with force and slam her head against the police vehicle

carolyn j   October 30th, 2009 10:39 pm ET

in conclusive mean's she is in the right....awwwwwwww poor girl.

Sondra   October 30th, 2009 10:39 pm ET

We've been told what this woman from the Wal-Mart scuffle is facing, but what are the police facing? Are they still on active duty when there are no definite answers about what happened? And aren't there witnesses on the tape that can be contacted. (BTW- who threatens to "beat" an officers a$....who threatens a cop at all? Especially a preachers daughter. What do you guys think?

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:39 pm ET

I have to say, there are two types of people- There are customers that are just rude and angry who just ruin people's day and then there are employees that treat people bad... but I guess the case is about a bad customer...

Crystal Moore, Fairfax, VA   October 30th, 2009 10:40 pm ET

How did this go from misdemeanor to felony?

Renee   October 30th, 2009 10:40 pm ET

Where are the Walmart video evidence? Walmart has video cams everywhere!

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:40 pm ET

Randi Kaye's report sounds like it has Nothing to do with Racism!!!
(if the police reports are true!)

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:40 pm ET

@ Emily, i suspect you are right about NATO assistance. If we send more troops, hopefully they will too.

But, it's not just the troops. It's taking a truly desolate, unorganized country and bringing it into this century. Outside of the cities, there are dozens of very small communities who have no concern with government or the Taliban. They simply wish to live as they have lived for thousands of years.

David, Indiana   October 30th, 2009 10:41 pm ET

detainees shld get H1N1 vaccine according to where as a population they fall in priorities for the vaccine.

@Isabel, I hope things are going well there, sounds like you are having a busy week.

Great discussion of the impact and timing of the upcoming and in question Afghan elections w/ David Gergen, Michael Ware, and Dan Senor. What I get from the whole panel is that if the the elections are in place the situation firms up so that though result of election is to be seen there is a partner to count on and that is a necessity for proceeding with a surge. President Obama is in a stronger position if he can get the surge going soon.

cicly   October 30th, 2009 10:41 pm ET

never been in trouble and looking at 15 years? ouch, that's harsh.

Karen   October 30th, 2009 10:41 pm ET

I was wondering about witnesses too.

Crystal Moore, Fairfax, VA   October 30th, 2009 10:42 pm ET

The real issue here is not the racism in this little town...racism exist in a lot of places. The focus should be on the judicial system that is structured in such a way that there is an economic incentive to throw the book at people for exercising their right to trial.

Sondra-NY (Suffolk County)   October 30th, 2009 10:42 pm ET

Mrs. Ellis would probably get the maximum sentence, or close to the maximum sentence, to set an example. And of course all the officers will tell the same story. I agree with what Lisa said, and cursing wouldn't be such a big deal if people didn't make it such a big deal.

carolyn j   October 30th, 2009 10:42 pm ET

that happened to me in tenn...cashier would'nt give me my money back and ttreaten to call cops...

robert gorges   October 30th, 2009 10:43 pm ET

Mr, Anderson;
Could you please ask the doctor,if the nasal mist for the swine flu is it safe? I heard it is a live virus could you get back to me on this

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:43 pm ET

I agree with Sunny Huston!
All those witnesses and the police got together and made this up!?

Even if she was angry, there is no reason to act and speak like that in a public place!
Not all over a woman getting angry @Walmart, it''s for mouthing off, physical actions, etc.

Crystal Moore, Fairfax, VA   October 30th, 2009 10:44 pm ET

This was 3 years ago, what took so long?

Renee   October 30th, 2009 10:44 pm ET

Look this happened in Missouri - a small town in the midwest! Walmart is a social connection in a small town. Walmart is the "meeting place" in the town. They have to have some good witnesses here.

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:44 pm ET

@ Dodie ~ California – Hope you get better, Isn't it the H1N1 that you have if you have been sick for more than 4 weeks? I killed the sickness I had immediately. I still have some stuffiness still left I'm trying to fight off. But yet, the wet climate here in Ontario isn't helping... :-P

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:45 pm ET

Wow!!!! That so scary to hear K. Ellis arrested..... I don't think racist at all. I agree with both of Lisa and Sunny, I know she made mistake, I think she lose her temper, never assault police officer. I agree them she get 15 yrs sentence in jail.

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:46 pm ET

@Megan,
I've heard that you can get both shot if you want them.
There are for 2 different flu strains and there is another flu strain out there, aside from the H1N1 Strain.

Some people are just getting the H1N1 Shot however...it's a good question for your MD.

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:47 pm ET

I think I would be on the news if a customer or employee were to treat me bad. I'm sorry but I have a hard time Not standing up for myself :-P

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

The Obamas are so cool.

Mike / Boston   October 30th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

I am very disappointed that you have not clarified Dr. Goupta’s remarks regarding bacterial pneumonia and children deaths. My son has it with H1N1 and now I am a nervous wreck! Do some children with bacterial pneumonia and H1N1 recover? Please!

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:50 pm ET

Man, I don't know if I could be as strong as Michelle by not living with my husband for years!

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:50 pm ET

@Dodie-CA, very sorry to hear you are so sick, but very glad that you still join us on the blog. Often, your commentary is very helpful to me.

Get well ASAP.

Isabel Siaba, Brazil   October 30th, 2009 10:50 pm ET

The Obamas are showing to be a happy couple and a lot of harmony,qualities essentials for a happy marriage and successful!

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:51 pm ET

Actually I heard that there is the regular flu, H1N1 and a second strain of H1N1 going around. I say, how are our bodies able to learn how to fight off the virus on its own if we keep making our bodies more dependant on medication? I prefer the old fashion way, a whole lot of soup and vitamin c :-D

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:51 pm ET

Emily,
I did already get flu shot, not swine flu...... Every year we need get flu shot too....... :)

Sondra-NY (Suffolk County)   October 30th, 2009 10:52 pm ET

The Obama's want people to see them as "real," normal people, to relate to them and like them more, and to give them more leeway because of it.

Renee   October 30th, 2009 10:53 pm ET

@ Mike/Boston: I understand your concern. Dr. Gupta is a correspondent and a brain surgeon. He has not reviewed your son's records. Please call your son's doctor right away or take him to Boston Children's Hospital and get an expert opinion. Please don't delay. I wish you all the best!

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:53 pm ET

I think this discssion on the Obama's marriage can be very helpful to lot of American couples, who are stuggling their marriages.

It seems to me, if the Pres. and 1st Lady can work it out under the microscope of the media, almost anyone can do it!

karen   October 30th, 2009 10:53 pm ET

the president has to use a presidental plane. helicopter etc. for where ever he goes, because of security, so he is not allowed to take his family on vacation or his wife to a show? thats bs. all presidents have used federal funds( ie( using planes helicopters to go where they want to go. why is this being even brought up?

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

Michelle is awesome. Her approval rating is so high because she's like superwoman....and who cares about Anna Nicole Smith...really. Anybody here care?

Mike, formerly from Syracuse   October 30th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

Why should Michelle Obama spend any political capital? She wasn't the one elected.

lisal .canada   October 30th, 2009 10:56 pm ET

underneath it all, the First Lady is a mover and a shaker ... i think she will continue to maintain a presence. happy weekend, everyone.

Sondra-NY (Suffolk County)   October 30th, 2009 10:57 pm ET

All the people who were there where the girl was raped should be arrested, even those who just watched. What is wrong with people?

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:57 pm ET

Did anyone else realize , the proof that everyone in the world knows each other is the fact that everyone is super close to getting the H1N1 :-P odd way to put it but its true ;-D

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:57 pm ET

That is horrible...the rape thing...weren't kids watching it? What's wrong with kids these days?

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:57 pm ET

Yes,
another arrest, in that Awful RAPE of the 15 yr old girl.
such a sad story...glad to hear that they are still arresting people!

carolyn j   October 30th, 2009 10:57 pm ET

great show..JOHN..ERICA, have a good night...happy halloween weekend.

all week was great !!!

Jennifer - AZ   October 30th, 2009 10:57 pm ET

I think the Obamas have a real sense of social responsibility and the understanding that your behavior can impact your society and the importance of choosing to make the impact positive. I think a lot of people view their world much more narrowly.

cicly   October 30th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

michelle surely is wonderful. poor anna nicole died an untimely and tragic death. no matter what, she deserved to live.

Isabel Siaba, Brazil   October 30th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

The ballon boy.... lol....

starr, formerly known as vincent   October 30th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Good night to all, Have a great weekend! John King, you did a super job this week!

Fellow Bloggers – great weekend!

Anna   October 30th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Why is everybody going to be Lady Gaga?

Dodie ~ California   October 30th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Good night everyone enjoy the weekend!

Jennifer - AZ   October 30th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Happy Halloween!

Megan Dresslar - Shoreline, WA   October 30th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Good night John King (Anderson), Erica, Ed Henry, David Gergen Martina Ilstad, Emily and my friends Twitter/Facebook Bloggers!!!!!
Have a great night and sleep tight everyone!!!!
Have a great weekend!
See you on Monday night!
Day of the shot with cute cartoon costume!!!!! Nice shot I love! :) LOL!
John,
Thanks for anchor fill-in for Anderson this week....... See you on Sunday morning State of Union!!!!!!

cicly   October 30th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

bye bye

Isabel Siaba, Brazil   October 30th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

Good night John, Erica, David (Indiana), friends and bloggers!

See you next week!
Have a great weekend!

lisal .canada   October 30th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

happy h'ween - boo. and john (and everyone) enjoy that extra hour!!

Emily   October 30th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

Have a great weekend Erica, Megan, Martina, & Bloggers! :D

John King you did a great job filling in for Anderson, whose missed! :)

Happy Halloween Everyone and see you all in November! :P

Gady Mayen - Hamilton, Canada   October 30th, 2009 10:59 pm ET

Well good night John King, Erica, Bloggers, and AC360 team. Have a great Halloween, Be careful about the candy you guys get. H1N1 isn't a joke anymore :-D Tweet me @Gady_Mayen if you want to keep talking about H1N1 :-D see you guys next wednesday or thursday :-( I Wish I can see it all week :-D

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