Preparing for Pandemic War

Weapons of Mass Destruction and nuclear attack scenarios are all part of war preparations that are common to the national defense. Now, Bill Gates proposes that we move to a pre-war pandemic footing for the next pandemic, see this Seattle Times article: "Bill Gates: We must prepare for the next pandemic like we prepare for war."

As I've shared before, I am positive that most people think that this coronavirus pandemic is a once-in-a-hundred-year event, which I believe is horse poo. We live in an entirely different world today and with international travel a virus can move from continent to continent, from rural village to urban metropolis, in a matter of only a few hours or days. It will not be another 100 years before the next pandemic!!

As for investing in public health on a scale that Gates is calling for, I think it is wishful thinking. We are a reactionary people and unwilling to invest in actions that cost money now for some future better readiness. If we do make some short-term investments, they will be just that: short term. Other priorities will come up, the pandemic will fade in our memories and tax cuts will dance in our heads like little sugar plums. 

We are an exceptional people!