American Scandal The Plague of San Francisco | From Plague to COVID: What We Still Haven’t Learned | 5
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Oct 14, 2025 Dr. Howard Markel, a physician and medical historian, discusses the haunting legacy of the 1900 San Francisco plague and its connections to today's public health crisis. He emphasizes the importance of trust, early action, and transparency in combating epidemics. Markel explores how leaders often hide outbreaks for political and economic reasons and warns against scapegoating in times of crisis. He advocates for improved public health communication and highlights heroes like Anthony Fauci, stressing the need for continued investment in public health systems to prepare for future pandemics.
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Respiratory Viruses Are The Biggest Threat
- Respiratory viruses that spread easily pose the greatest pandemic risk because they transmit by coughing, sneezing, and breathing.
- We must surveil animal reservoirs globally and demand transparency to detect dangerous strains early.
Follow Standard Protocols And Share Data Fast
- Use standardized protocols and immediate international data sharing to identify and respond to outbreaks fast.
- Share samples and genomes quickly so labs worldwide can develop diagnostics, antivirals, and vaccines.
Flattening Buys Time For Vaccines
- Social distancing doesn't cure disease but buys time for vaccine development and reduces peak healthcare demand.
- Historical 1918 data informed modern shutdown strategies and the concept of flattening the curve.
