Oct. 30--America is woefully unprepared for the risk from known infectious diseases -- let alone emerging problems such as avian flu, health experts warned Wednesday.
"Infectious diseases are undergoing a global resurgence that threatens everyone's health," says the 40-page report from Trust for America's Health, a nonprofit group that promotes disease-prevention policies.
Problem
Infectious diseases kill millions worldwide every year, including 170,000 Americans. They are the leading cause of death in children and adolescents around the globe. Top killers are respiratory infections, HIV and diarrheal diseases.
Weaknesses
Vaccines: The report bemoans an empty pipeline for new vaccines. Nothing exists for three of the biggest dangers: HIV, tuberculosis and malaria.
Rapid tests: Needed for many infectious diseases so officials can mobilize quickly to confine outbreaks.
Surveillance: Doctors must find better ways to track clusters of symptoms -- the first sign of a problem.
Treatments: New antibiotics are needed to combat resistant germs that respond less readily to today's arsenal of drugs. Antivirals and other medicines must be developed as well.
Recommendations
Develop a "national game plan" that incorporates government, private medical, industry and community groups to prevent, detect and treat infectious diseases.
The U.S. should stockpile antibiotics and other medicines to treat infectious diseases. Also requires a solid plan for distributing the drugs.
Vast research efforts are needed on a variety of fronts, including rapid diagnostic tests; a better understanding of resistant bacteria; and developing new pesticides or insecticides.
For the complete report, go to healthyamericans.org.
Robyn Shelton can be reached at rshelton@orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5487.
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