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Liberia's top doctor quarantines herself to set an example in her Ebola-ridden country
October 02, 2014
Authorities in West Africa are urging everyone who has been in contact with an Ebola victim to remain isolated for 21 days that's how long it takes for symptoms of the disease to present themselves. But remaining under quarantine is difficult, and not everyone is following the order.
That's partly why Liberia's chief medical officer, Dr. Berenice Dahn, has quarantined herself in her own home in a very high profile way. "It's necessary that I set the example, so that when we tell others to do it, they take us seriously," Dahn says. She's also asked her entire office to follow suit.
Dahn began the quarantine after one of her assistants at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare died of Ebola. Now she's one week into a 21-day monitoring period, and she admits it isn't easy.
http://www.pri.org/stories/2014-10-02/liberias-top-doctor-quarantines-herself-set-example-her-ebola-ridden-country
TM99
(8,352 posts)Bravo to Dr. Berenice Dahn.
She knows the science. She understands civil rights. And most importantly she recognizes that she exists within a society. She is modeling very good behavior within the context of the situation.
It IS difficult to exercise will and self-control - two hallmarks of adult maturity. And yet she recognizes that the good that will come from her actions out-weighs the inconvenience and minor discomfort it will cause her for only a short time.
I truly hope she makes it through the quarantine safely.
branford
(4,462 posts)Last edited Thu Oct 30, 2014, 10:11 PM - Edit history (1)
Neither woman is necessarily more noble in their work and the quarantines likely unnecessary, but Dr. Dahn has a level of sensitivity, understanding and basic diplomacy that has completed eluded Ms. Hickox.
Crunchy Frog
(26,647 posts)Though I wish there were some way to get clones of her.
Fervently hoping she remains Ebola free.
KMOD
(7,906 posts)Hope she stays healthy and can get back to her much need work soon.
boston bean
(36,223 posts)Certainly, no Kaci Hickox type hero!