Are We Prepared for the Next Epidemic?
Considering the rapid spread of the Zika virus, and the rise of mosquitos due to higher temperatures, there should be alarm bells ringing for fear of the next epidemic. The article below warns us of cases like Zika, which is not only spread by mosquitos but also through sexual transmission. The branching process (as we discussed in class) of how disease spreads from one person to another is evident in the spread of Zika in the United States. The first case was in Florida, and within five months the disease has already spread to Texas.
In the face of ever warmer temperatures, we must be aware of the risks of mosquitos spreading to northern latitudes. In order to prevent future transmission of disease through mosquitos, we must take preventative measures now. The answer is not to panic or to be anxious for five minutes then forget about it. The solution is to use the tools we have at hand – whether it’s using current technologies to eradicate mosquitos, or even reaching out to government officials for funding – to prevent another disaster from happening.
http://origin-nyi.thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/healthcare/308489-to-prevent-another-epidemic-look-beyond-zika