Zombie Apocalypse: How Long Would Zombies Really Survive?

When discussing a zombie apocalypse, one of the most recurring questions is, 'Wouldn't the corpses just dehydrate and deteriorate over time?' This is a fascinating point that delves into the true nature of zombies and the mechanics behind their survival. In theory, if they were just reanimated corpses with a basic urge to eat the living, it would certainly be challenging for them to endure for long periods. However, on-screen portrayals often focus on non-realistic aspects to keep the narrative engaging.

Realistic Survival of Zombies

Let’s delve deeper into the different factors that would affect the survival of zombies in a realistic scenario. While they are dead bodies with the ability to walk and cause destruction, a major question is what form of zombie we are discussing. There are various types of zombies in movies and fiction, each with its own set of characteristics and limitations.

Viral Disease Zombies

In the context of a viral zombie apocalypse, the zombies are virally reanimated. This means that the virus has destroyed the higher brain functions and caused aggressive behavior, but the zombies are still alive. They would be dangerous, infectious animals. They could succumb to other conditions such as starvation, dehydration, or disease. If you were to use a virus like cholera, for instance, you could allow the uninfected to survive by using a vaccine or immune system protection. The zombies would eventually die from massive dehydration and fever, which would render them unable to pose a significant threat for long.

Reanimated Dead Zombies

In another scenario, the zombies could be the type that is reanimated from any means. These zombies are actually dead, but have retained their bodily functions through some supernatural means. This type of zombie would lack an immune system and would be at risk of breaking down. If left alone, they would dry out and rot. Hose them down with raw sewage and let them decay, and they would eventually deteriorate due to the lack of bodily functions necessary to maintain life.

Mystical Undead Zombies

There is also the mystical undead variant, which is dead but not subject to rot. These zombies are usually destroyed only by physically destroying them. This type can be prevalent in fictional stories and movies where zombies are animated by magic or other mystical means. They are difficult to deal with, as destroying the bits of a mystical zombie only creates more.

Survival Behavior of Zombies

Regardless of the type of zombie, their survival in a realistic scenario would be short-lived due to gradual deterioration. Fresh zombies would initially be terrifying, utilizing their remaining strength to move and cause destruction. However, over time, their bodies would begin to break down. After a few months, most of the zombies would be blind due to the clouding of their eyes and lack of blinking. They would also experience significant muscle loss, further reducing their mobility and effectiveness as threats.

Conclusion: The True Nature of Zombihood

In summary, while zombies in movies and fiction can be portrayed in various fantastic ways, in a realistic scenario, such as a zombie apocalypse, these reanimated corpses would not last long. Factors like dehydration, muscle loss, and the inability to replace damaged tissues mean that even the most active and dangerous zombies would deteriorate over time, making them less of a threat in the long run.