>> syphyllis that had altered his brain/personality
Some say this was the first iteration of the bioweapon Lyme. Syph Miasm is a good indicator of who gets infected first. Don't ask me any more, some of those homeopaths talk about stuff way beyond me...
>> I've learned stuff from watching it
The first season was the best, it went down hill from then on. As a matter of fact I would bet money that by season 2+3 almost all writers on the show are pushing a set agenda...