The Infected

The infected. South Zagoria’s most tragic — and most consistent — residents.

Contrary to popular superstition, they are not the risen dead, nor are they the result of witchcraft (though one particularly intoxicated survivor once swore to me that a pagan ritual in the woods near Myshkino had summoned them — I suspect the home-brewed vodka had more to do with his story than any actual evidence.)

What they are, however, is horrifyingly efficient. The infection’s prion-like mechanism essentially unravels the higher brain functions, leaving only the most basic instincts: Wander, rage, repeat. Within days, victims lose the ability to speak, reason, or operate simple tools — even doors. (I once observed an infected unsuccessfully attempt to enter a shed I was resting in. The situation somewhat lost its comedic value once the infected managed to tumble through the window…)

An estimated 80% of those infected perish during the fever stage. The unlucky remainder, roughly 15 – 18%, survive as what you might call “zombies,” though I personally dislike the term. They are not cinematic monsters but very sick human beings who are, unfortunately, trying very hard to beat you to a pulp.

They hunt primarily by sight and sound. Their sense of smell appears dulled, though I enjoy bathing too much to test this theory further. If they spot you, they will run, scream, and — if I may speak from experience — chase you considerably farther than seems reasonable for something that is technically brain-damaged.

Infected often vary in strength and endurance depending on their professions before the outbreak: Soldiers and police seem unnervingly strong, while the elderly are — how shall I put this — more easily encouraged to take a nap. Nonetheless, treat all with caution.

Their slowed metabolism allows them to survive for weeks, perhaps months, without sustenance, which is frankly unfair. Exposure to the elements seems to trouble them very little — I have seen them shuffling in blizzards without so much as a shiver. Firearms, blades, blunt force, and, of course, PO-X gas are all effective at dispatching them. But do take care with the remains; they are still highly infectious.

An observational note: They rarely finish off an unconscious person. I once played dead for nearly fifteen minutes after being knocked into a ditch, only to look up and find the infected milling around me like bored cattle. Upon being seen moving about, I was immediately punched in the head again. (For the record, I do not recommend this as a survival strategy. My ears are still ringing.)

In summary: avoid if possible, engage only when necessary, and for goodness’ sake, do not try to study them up close unless you have an excellent pair of boots and a very solid tree nearby.

— Dr. Yannick Pomochuk