Editorial: Fed funds for vaccines need boost

Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003 | 9:07 a.m.

The federal government hasn't provided enough funding to local and state law enforcement agencies to carry out anti-terrorism measures, and now it's becoming clear that the same financial strain is being placed on local health departments. As the New York Times reported Sunday, many local health departments, in an effort to meet the requirements of President Bush's federal smallpox vaccination program, will have to cut back on a variety of important services, including cancer and tuberculosis screening. At this point, the Clark County Health District says it doesn't appear the smallpox vaccinations will force a similar curtailment of services here, but the smallpox program will tax its resources nonetheless.

Ultimately, more than 10 million people nationwide will be vaccinated -- health-care workers, emergency medical technicians, police officers and firefighters. Much of the problem facing health departments can be traced to money: Most of the $940 million in federal funding for bioterrorism preparedness was used in response to the 2001 anthrax threats. In addition, administering the smallpox vaccination is complex, and recipients have to be closely monitored for more than a week to make sure that no complications develop. All in all, that means time and money will be diverted from other critical public-health responsibilities. "Right now we have had a lot of cases of whooping cough, and that can get away from you if you don't stay right on top of it. That kills kids," says Dr. Elizabeth McNeill, the chief medical officer for the Pima County Health Department in Tucson. "We don't want to get behind."

Public-health agencies already were strapped for funding before 9-11. In light of that, and because terrorism preparedness is essential for the security of our nation, Congress and President Bush should immediately provide enough funding for smallpox vaccinations so that local public-health agencies don't let their other critical duties get shortchanged.