EDITORIAL - Preparing for Ebola

Despite strict measures implemented at ports of entry, several persons are now being monitored in the United States for Ebola, with dozens believed to have been infected. Health experts have learned that symptoms of the deadly illness can come out late and the afflicted may not be detected at ports of entry.

The risks of spreading lethal diseases have increased exponentially with advances in international travel. A single host can spread killer organisms to entire communities in a matter of weeks. Health experts are aware of the risks; the past days have seen several of those in the forefront of the battle against Ebola contracting the virus, with some of them succumbing to the illness.

With 10 million Filipinos working overseas and more traveling for leisure or business, the Philippines is vulnerable and must take additional precautions against Ebola. Philippine health authorities know the risks and are implementing measures to screen people arriving from abroad. But the archipelago has porous seaports through which people from other countries can pass without screening or documentation. As the case in the US has shown, some Ebola patients may also not immediately manifest symptoms.

Until a vaccine is developed for mass distribution, public vigilance is the best way to augment health screening at ports of entry. The vigilance must be based on sufficient information on what to watch out for and possible remedies. Public awareness can also be raised about the importance of isolating those who show symptoms.

The World Health Organization has recorded nearly 7,500 Ebola cases, with more than 3,400 deaths mostly in West Africa, but patients have emerged in the US and Europe. Experts have warned that the illness can spread around the globe. Governments know the risks and cannot afford to be unprepared.