Quarantine not justified
Re: “There’s no way caring for sick can be termed ‘selfish,’” by Jacquielynn Floyd, Tuesday Metro column, and “Intervention warranted,” by Lynne Harmon, Tuesday Letters.
I appreciate Jacquielynn Floyd’s voice of reason in her recent column.
In contrast, Lynne Harmon wrote that nurse Kaci Hickox should quit “whining” about the shabby and excessive treatment she received in exchange for her brave service in West Africa.
I believe Hickox’s quarantine in a tent with only rudimentary sanitary facilities was unsupported by scientific experts and serves only as symbolic pacification of public fears.
Seems that every time our country faces a crisis, some folks take leave of their senses and call out for the most draconian of measures at the expense of basic decency.
While Hickox’s quarantine perhaps doesn’t approach the outrageousness of some past events, there still seems to be a pattern that continues again and again in our history.
In the end, what first appeared prudent ultimately is viewed by history as regrettable folly.
Brian Cofer, Irving
Treat health care workers right
I read with interest Kaci Hickox’s column and the comments posted online.
First, I’m thankful to Ms. Hickox and all the doctors, nurses and others who have worked tirelessly in treating those affected by the Ebola virus in West Africa.
I believe the treatment afforded her (and to other medical workers about to return to America) is indicative of our government response to this crisis. It appears to be reactionary and not thought out.
If quarantine is deemed appropriate for returning medical staff, why hasn’t Congress or the state legislatures convened and passed a bill that guarantees an appropriate protocol for such workers?
The protocol should include safe harbor, guaranteed free medical treatment, and a safe and comfortable environment for their quarantine period.
The treatment of Ms. Hickox is shameful.
Not to soapbox, but our medical workers and volunteers need to be assured that their service is respected and that we, as a nation, will do everything to ensure their well-being.
I also believe we should immediately guarantee the same for our veterans, who have been treated just as shabbily.
Rick Obadiah, Genoa City, Wis.