The recent outbreaks of Ebola in West Africa highlight the importance of continued research into such dangerous pathogens. We still do not understand how Ebola is transmitted and how humans respond to the Ebola and Marburg viruses. Researchers continue to how these and other deadly microbes work. With international air travel as rapid as it currently is, this disease could easily escape west Africa and end up in any country around the world.
The recent errors resulting in the accidental, potential exposure of workers to anthrax and smallpox have undermined the public's confidence for the need to investigate these dangers. However, with Ebola and its relative Marburg having death rates between 50-90%, it is therefore most critical that this research continues despite the dangers of using these and other deadly microbes. Just imagine the chaos and death if half or more of the world's population were to succumb to these and other deadly diseases. Medical research must continue to seek therapeutics and vaccines in order to treat or prevent these diseases.
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This is a personal blog. The views expressed herein may not represent those of my employer.
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