With the same shock and speed as the planes that destroyed the Twin Towers, the Ebola virus razed the last bastion of the American Myth: the Ivory Tower of impenetrability. Americans have long enjoyed the belief that being surrounded by two oceans distanced them from the diseases, political turmoil, and wars rampant in other countries. Thanks to Thomas Duncan, we now know the truth. For that I am thankful. Just as we gave up many personal liberties after the 2001 assault on our country, protocols for community health and safety will change the way we live in a post-Ebola environment.
Criticism abounds in Dallas’ handling of the health threat. I commend the response and wonder what would have happened had Mr. Duncan chosen a less populated area without the same health care and security resources to respond as quickly as Dallas did. Responsible citizens must be prepared to give some more for the sake of community health and safety. The CDC recommends using facilities with practiced expertise in the care of infectious patients. This follows the logic used to quash the polio epidemic. This type of care requires special training, equipment, and mental toughness.
Our national security depends on us being ready to handle crises regardless of their nature. Weapons of mass destruction take on new meaning. While attempting to master the arms race, what attention has been paid to that which we have least control: biological weapons? Our enemies seem enchanted with brutality and the horror inspired by genocide and butchery. However men who are intelligent enough to assume power over large groups will see the potential in wielding weapons that are poorly secured and understood. This is no time to be cavalier or lax. Aggressive and proactive measures must be instituted to control and manage Ebola.
Health care professionals, defense specialists, and the NSA must collaborate with the full support of Congress and the White House to insure the safety of the American people.
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