Why the Government Doesn't Spraying Fungicide to Combat the Outbreak in The Last of Us
In the post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us, the outbreak of the Cordyceps fungus has brought unprecedented chaos. Given the logic of combating pandemics, one might assume that the government would immediately turn to fungicides to stop the spread. However, several critical factors complicate this straightforward approach. In this article, we will explore these factors and analyze why the government's strategy involves more complex and multi-faceted solutions.
Factors Complicating the Use of Fungicide
1. Scale of Infection
The rapid and extensive spread of the Cordyceps fungus makes it logistically challenging to cover entire regions with fungicides. This scale of infection necessitates a method that can efficiently cover large areas without causing additional strain on already limited resources. Efforts to spray fungicide over such vast regions might not effectively halt the infection, particularly in densely populated urban areas and diverse natural environments.
Environmental Impact
2. Environmental Impact
Fungicides, while effective against fungal infestations, can have detrimental effects on ecosystems. Widespread spraying could disrupt entire food chains, damage non-target organisms, and lead to long-term environmental consequences. The collateral damage of such an extensive pesticide campaign goes beyond the infection itself, raising critical ecological concerns.
Resistance and Evolutionary Adaptation
3. Resistance and Evolutionary Adaptation
Just as bacteria can develop resistance to antibiotics, fungi can develop resistance to fungicides. Over-reliance on chemical treatments can lead to the emergence of resistant strains of the Cordyceps fungus, rendering current fungicides ineffective in the long run. This evolutionary adaptation could compound the outbreak, making it even more challenging to manage.
Public Safety and Trust
4. Public Safety and Trust
The use of chemical fungicides on such a large scale could trigger public panic and distrust. Authorities might fear that the potential side effects of fungicides on the non-infected population could exacerbate public health concerns. This could lead to widespread unrest, making it difficult to implement effective containment strategies.
Focus on Containment
5. Focus on Containment
Given the extensive spread and the complexities of using fungicides, the government turns its focus towards containment strategies. Quarantine zones and military enforcement become the primary methods for managing the infected population. This pragmatic approach acknowledges the overwhelming nature of the crisis and prioritizes resources and efforts towards controlling the spread rather than eradicating the fungus entirely.
Narrative and Thematic Elements
6. Narrative and Thematic Elements
Survival and Fragility: From a storytelling perspective, the narrative choice not to use fungicides highlights themes of survival and the fragility of society. The show underscores the human struggle against an overwhelming threat, emphasizing the critical ethical and logistical challenges that arise in such a crisis.
Consequences of Inaction: By excluding the use of fungicides, the show portrays the consequences of a failed response to the crisis. It forces viewers to confront the reality of a situation where immediate and drastic measures might not be the answer, and it highlights the need for a more nuanced and strategic approach.
Conclusion
The government's decision not to spray fungicide in The Last of Us is a reflection of the complex interplay between science, ethics, and practicality. While fungicides might offer a straightforward solution, the multifaceted challenges of scale, environmental impact, resistance, and public trust necessitate a more comprehensive and adaptive strategy. Understanding these factors adds depth to the narrative and underscores the real-world complexities of managing such a catastrophic outbreak.