The Next Big Idea Daily

How Not to Die (According to an ER Doctor)

Jan 21, 2026
Join emergency medicine physician Ashley Alker, author of '99 Ways to Die,' and veteran war correspondent Judith Matloff, who penned 'How to Drag a Body,' for a riveting discussion on life-saving tips and survival strategies. Alker shares alarming insights about unnoticed bat bites and the realities of serial killers, while emphasizing the importance of vaccines and addressing health biases. Matloff offers practical disaster preparedness advice, highlighting why women need specific training and how everyday items can be essential for survival. Dark humor emerges as a powerful coping mechanism!
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ADVICE

Act Fast After Possible Bat Exposure

  • If you wake up with a bat in your room or find one in your home, go to the emergency department for rabies prophylaxis immediately.
  • Don't assume bat bites are visible or painful, act on any possible exposure.
INSIGHT

Invisible Deadly Threats

  • Rabies is nearly 100% fatal without post-exposure treatment, and bat bites are the leading cause of U.S. rabies deaths.
  • Seek immediate post-exposure prophylaxis if you find a bat in your room or are possibly bitten.
INSIGHT

Serial Killer Myths Debunked

  • Many serial killers are socially integrated, employed, and not unusually intelligent.
  • Hollywood myths distort reality; personality disorders are more common than genius.
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