I think the idea that ''everyone'' is infected is still at a theory state and not a final proof, factual conclusion. we don't know where the ''plague'' came from therefore anything is still a guess.

And yes, Darthbob's avatar is niiiiiiiiiiiice.

And for those who read the comic, what should/could happen in the next episodes should be loads of fun to watch.

 The Zombie bit causes infection and death. After death all humans rise and become zombies, regardless of how they die (zombie bite, cancer, old age, getting shot, ect.,). This was pretty much confirmed last season, when Rick killed Shane, then he became a zombie. That coupled with the information Rick learned from the guy at CDC, I think its beyond just a theory now. Where the virus came from, whether it was natural or human made, is yet to be revealed. 

 BRING IT ON!!!!!!

 this was awesome!

how did the comic handle the birth though?

i know they may change it but does anyone know?

In the comic, the birth goes as normal. But, oh my...All Hell breaks loose shortly after she gives birth!

Was it ever stated in the comic that it is a virus?

I don't know why, probably because we've been so inundated with it,  but I miss the old days when being a vampire, were wolf, zombie, was a curse on man, not a viral infection. Gods punishment for mans arrogance and disobedience. Not that I want the show to turn into any kind of religous message, but I kind of like the idea of salvation coming from within and not from a cure.

Anyway, one of the most ass kickinest first episodes in the history of t.v.

Kirkman says that he will never give a reason for the infection, which is a good thing. Think about when Lucas tried to explain where The Force comes from in Episode One. Some things are best left unexplained as to their origins, otherwise they greatly disappoint.

Jenner (the guy at the CDC) said that everyone is a carrier for the organism that causes reanimation. A bite from a reanimated corpse causes you to die (rapid infection, fever, then death), and then the organism reactivates the cerebellum of the brain (the motor of the muscles) causing the dead to walk, but not think. This was all covered in the last episode of season one. Hence the name of the episode "TS-19" (aka Test Subject 19), which was Jenner's wife who had been bitten. 

I still like that the show and the book have diverged from each other in some respects, and dovetailed in others. Having a blatant shot for shot recreation of the comic would just be boring. 

Was it just my TV, or did anyone else notice that every 3 to 5 minutes, or so, a quick black wave crossed the screen (like someone quickly walking in front of the camera)?

It seemed intentional, to keep the viewer on their toes, but it became annoying.

Other than that, this was by far the best episode yet.

So a zombie bite here is like getting bit by a Komodo Dragon; they have all sorts of deadly bacteria that live in their saliva.  I'll buy that.  I'm sure the key to the transformation is what the CDC Doc whispered to Rick.

I plan to keep my avatar up and distracting you all until Thor 2 is in theatres!

 Good action, fast pace and lots of T-Dog.  BTW Is Daryl gay or does he just not like Carol, come-on, whats up with that.