Infectious diseases, which were at one time controlled, are re-emerging worldwide. They endanger the health of many Americans and pose a nation wide problem. These diseases, if they are not controlled, will be the factor to contribute to economic growth, population decreases, and our global security.
How does this affect us?
The
U.S. is affected in four ways:
1. economic growth would decline
2. the health of many americans would be at risk
3. competition between countries for cures and research
4. extreme preparedness to try to overcome this national hazard
What is the current situation?
Infectious diseases have no boundaries. They can travel anywhere in the world and nothing can stop them. They can travel in humans, insects, food, and in wet and dry environments. No nation is immune to disease, a prime example would be the recent spread of AIDS, and other diseases such as TB, malaria, cholera, and hepatitis.
The increase in the number of infectious diseases is due to the fact that there is an increase in population, changes in climate, population mobility and poverty are all great contributors this problem. The result of this surge in disease will be human suffering, decreased productivity and economic growth, as well as great loss of people in the workforce and the general population. Many countries are reluctant to send workers or continue business in nations suffering from infectious disease because of the health risks that these countries pose.
How are U.S. citizens being protected?
The Department of State has been directed by the President to obtain support
from other nations and raise awareness of infectious diseases around the
world. Also, he had asked that all nations sign agreements to form a global
surveillance response network. The U.S. cannot fight infectious diseases
and the problems it causes on its own. We have to consider this as
a part of our foreign policy agenda not just a foreign problem.
We have to strengthen the efforts of foreign organizations such as the
World Bank and the World Health Organization.
We have two choices: we can either continue to react to infectious
diseases as we have been by costly measurers or we can strengthen our awareness,
prevention, surveillance, and treatment.
Additional
Information:
What organizations are in charge?
What are emerging diseases and how did they begin?
Why do infectious diseases re-emerge?
What actions are taken by the U.S. Government to prevent and prepare for emerging and re-emerging diseases?