The U.S. as a "Hot Zone": The Necessity for Medical Defense

Abstract

This article calls for awareness of the national security threat to the United States from "emerging disease" and ultimately suggests a response mechanism based upon existing government resources, which the author calls "medical defense." National security strategy is analyzed in the context of recognition of nontraditional threats in the midst of the "Revolution in Security Affairs." Relevant governmental scientific strategies concerning emerging diseases are examined in order to develop the medical defense concept. The article further outlines the problem of medical defense in the format of threat, scenario, and mission analyses. Threat analysis concentrates on how deteriorating social and political conditions are enhancing the environment of emerging disease. Scenario analysis focuses on the effects of an attack from an emerging disease, with discussion of the deficiencies present in the U.S. public health system. Mission analysis demonstrates how the U.S. could prepare an adequate medical defense by aligning specialized military medical capability with those of the Centers for Disease Control. Finally, the formation, mission, and command and control of a military unit formed specifically for medical defense are outlined.