Apparently, there’s this condition called Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (or EHS) that’s ruining a lot of lives. How? It makes its victims sensitive around cellular devices and WiFi networks—with proximity to such tech irritating them—that they decide to opt out of society.
Thus, WiFi refugees have come into existence. The almost too-unbelievable part is groups of them have been flocking to a faraway town for their protection.
The place is Green Bank, West Virginia where oddly enough humongous radio telescopes are in operation. It has become a haven for EHS sufferers and other WiFi refugees because it’s a certified radio-free zone. It’s also rustic, isolated, and quite lovely.
The Science and Controversy Behind EHS
Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity is a condition that has sparked significant debate within the medical community. Those who claim to suffer from EHS report a variety of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, stress, sleep disturbances, skin prickling, and a general feeling of unwellness. These symptoms are said to be triggered by exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from devices such as cell phones, WiFi routers, and other wireless technology.
However, the controversial part is that a lot of doctors and scientists have countered the notion that people get sick from WiFi and cellphones. Numerous studies have been conducted to determine whether EMFs can cause these symptoms, but the results have been inconclusive. An academic even went so far as to call the ailment a result of ignorance, suggesting that the symptoms might be psychosomatic—meaning they are caused by psychological factors rather than physical ones.
Life in Green Bank
Green Bank, West Virginia, offers a unique refuge for those who believe they suffer from EHS. The town is home to the Green Bank Observatory, which operates some of the world’s largest radio telescopes. To prevent interference with the telescopes’ sensitive equipment, the area is designated as a National Radio Quiet Zone. This means that radio transmissions, including those from cell phones and WiFi, are heavily restricted.
The BBC has a great piece on some of the inhabitants who claim they have suffered from EHS and cellular devices. The victims describe their pain vividly, often recounting how their symptoms forced them to withdraw from society. For many, moving to Green Bank has provided a much-needed respite from their suffering. The town’s isolation and lack of modern wireless technology offer a sanctuary where they can live without the constant fear of EMF exposure.
Despite the controversy surrounding EHS, the residents of Green Bank find solace in their shared experiences. They form a close-knit community, supporting each other through their struggles and advocating for greater awareness of their condition. While some may view their plight with skepticism, the residents of Green Bank are steadfast in their belief that their symptoms are real and debilitating.
The town itself is quite picturesque, with its rustic charm and natural beauty. Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, Green Bank offers a peaceful and serene environment that stands in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of modern urban life. For the WiFi refugees who have made it their home, Green Bank represents a safe haven where they can live free from the electromagnetic fields that they believe cause them harm.
In conclusion, while the medical community remains divided on the legitimacy of Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity, the experiences of those who suffer from it cannot be easily dismissed. Green Bank, West Virginia, serves as a unique refuge for these individuals, providing them with a place where they can escape the modern world’s pervasive wireless technology. Whether or not EHS is a medically recognized condition, the stories of those who have found solace in Green Bank highlight the profound impact that technology can have on our lives, for better or worse.
Source BBC
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