Why is the Medical Association of Atlanta posting website information on Influenza?

Certainly the medical textbooks and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) provide the scientific information for physicians to remain updated on the current influenza treatment, but it is now time for physicians to take a leadership role in the response plans for management of the many individuals (our patients and our communities) that may be affected by the FLU.

Historically, members of the Medical Association of Atlanta have been leaders of medical public health initiatives even during times of stress and strife. During the Civil War in 1862, Dr Willis Westmoreland spoke before the City Council on the need for smallpox vaccination. By 1863 smallpox “red flags” were required to identify any location where smallpox existed; and the Confederate Army seized 155 acres between the present day Grant Park and Ormewood Park to erect a smallpox hospital. All of these events occurred as Atlanta was functioning as a major casualty receiving area for the casualties of war. Ultimately in 1866 the City Council authorized physicians to vaccinate the population and allocated $50 per physician to this task. This is just one example of the Atlanta Medical leadership on public health during times of chaotic stress and strife. (Martin Moran MD,  Tincture of Time, 1995)

Currently the world is experiencing a pandemic flu that portends variable expectations for the next year as to the severity, morbidity, mortality, and health response capabilities of the medical and hospital infrastructure. The ability to plan and coordinate masses of infected and potentially infected influenza patients as well as continue to treat the myriad of everyday medical problems will test the medical community. It is time to consider the private and public health response that may be required. Dr Dailey continues to work as a subject matter expert and liaison in the response planning for the influenza pandemic the Medical Association of Atlanta. This most recent update carries warnings of the potential physician response requirements. His efforts are appreciated.