Public needs assurance in face of ebola threat

The threat of an ebola outbreak is growing everyday. 

The disease is spreading and has reached Europe. When the news broke last week ago that Spanish nurse Teresa Romero had contracted the deadly virus, reaction in Spain was one of shock and horror — not only at the possible fate of the poor nurse but also at the realisation of the economic consequences on a country that largely relies on tourism to make a living.

Since then 14 other people in Spain have been admitted for health monitoring. Make no mistake ebola is on its way here. Ireland has become more connected to the rest of the world.

Putting up screening patrols at airports and ports and securing the border may bring some relief but many infected people passing through such controls would present as asymptomatic. However that strategy still needs to be considered.

The Government, via the HSE, needs to roll out an information campaign to inform the population. The people need assurances that Ireland is ready and capable of dealing with ebola when it arrives here. Panic generated by ignorance needs to be avoided and the current communications deficit needs to be addressed.

In addition, Ireland needs to lead the charge on the international front by donating aid and encouraging others to do the same. The ebola crisis will only be dealt with at source. Our African friends need our help; to help them is to help ourselves. It will cost us dearly if we don’t.

Killian Brennan

Corofin House

Clare Village

Malahide Road

Dublin 17