To the editor:
It has been over 100 years since the U.S. has experienced anything like the COVID-19 pandemic. How we react as a nation will say volumes about our character. We have seen how disadvantaged communities have been disproportionately affected by systemic circumstances, such as lack of health care, healthy food availability, housing, etc. This will play out worldwide, as poorer nations with fragile existing health networks are impacted more harshly by the pandemic.
Sadly, global life-saving programs of routine immunizations, TB testing and treatment, malaria prevention measures are being interrupted, during the world’s response to the pandemic. These measures have saved millions of lives over decades, orchestrated by international financial support, the U.S. being a major player. The incredible gains made can be wrecked and even lost without adequate funds to build or strengthen the health care systems of these vulnerable communities.
COVID-19 is a global challenge. Our efforts toward eradication of some of the most lethal and crippling diseases must be redoubled globally at the same time we seek a vaccine and treatment for this new coronavirus. During the Ebola outbreak of 2014, there were over 10,000 additional deaths from HIV/AIDS, TB, and malaria, and up to 16,000 additional child deaths from measles, as a million children went without being vaccinated.
COVID-19 is a global problem which requires a global solution.
The House Phase 4 bill has no money to bolster international health programs. Our senators, Sen. Mike Braun and Sen. Todd Young, must make sure the U.S. does its part to respond to the global reach of this pandemic, while increasing support for global health programs that combat diseases globally. This will secure progress and prevent loss or reversal in the fight against preventable diseases.
It is easy to want only to focus on our extreme circumstances, over 100,000 deaths from COVID-19, but we must remember the millions of lives saved through our international financial commitment. The U.S. has always been the shining example. It is my hope we will continue this roll to support global health.
Diane Lindley
Needham
