Communicable Disease and Homeland Security: An Assessment of the US 2014 Ebola Incident

Abstract

Abstract During October 2014, the US experienced several cases of Ebola viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF). These occurrences arose from infected people entering the US including as well, physicians and nurses contracting the disease in the course of rendering medical care to the infected. The extent of the outbreak, as limited as it fortunately was, revealed problems in preparedness and the technical protocols followed in dealing with such a virulent disease pathogen. It may even serve as a warning that US policies and practices in dealing with hyper-infectious and seriously communicable disease have fallen short and require technically critical reassessment in how the US should or may need to respond to such incurable pathogens that enter the country, regardless if a natural or a terrorist mediated event. The issue of individual rights against quarantine also arises. This paper offers examination and suggestions for official responses to safeguard the health and rights of all.