4:00 Dose of Ebolology: Can I do Anything About This?

YES, plenty.  Practically, literally, and thematically, you can do something about this and about whatever the next thing we all freak out about is.  Here are some thoughts:

Demand rational discussions, and don’t buy into the hype.  This outbreak has occurred irrespective of immigration laws.  It is not Barack Obama’s fault.  We are not all going to die.  Sending troops to build hospitals will ultimately help Americans in addition to Africans (see 11:00 dose).  If a headline ends with a question mark, it is not news because it hasn’t actually happened.  Be calm.  Demand a higher level of discussion.  If it doesn’t interest you, please talk about something else.

Be generous.  Government responses are notoriously slow; however, NGO responses are swift and immediate.  Support them.  Doctors Without Borders has been operating clinics since last March.  They have been trying to treat, educate, and contain, all by donor support.  If you are worried about Ebola in America, give them money.  Stemming this crisis in West Africa is THE ONLY way to finish this epidemic.  Also, it’s, you know, humane.

Demand better of your public servants.  Though it may seem otherwise, we did not elect our members of Congress for entertainment (though they are often hilarious on the Daily Show).  We elected them to listen to our concerns.  All members of Congress have web-based inquiry submission where you can submit and voice concerns.  Use that service…you’re paying for it, after all.  Here is a link to help anyone find their Senators and Representatives:
http://www.usa.gov/Contact/US-Congress.shtml

Support public funding for Science and Research.  Why is there no cure for Ebola?  Because there’s no market for it.  The private sector has its place, and it is very important, but basic research generates drug targets.  It generates basal understanding of disease transmission dynamics and control.  Also, little known fun fact: drug companies can (AND DO) apply for Federal grant funds as often as universities.  These are not wasted dollars.  Invest in science, and we’ll solve problems!!