Taking Control of Public Health Government, Not BP, Should Lead
Health Response in the Gulf SOURCE: AP/Eric Gay There are still
many uncertainties in the BP oil disaster, but seven weeks into
this continuing calamity there is one clear necessity: The
federal government must have full responsibility, leadership,
and oversight in monitoring and managing the disaster’s public
health consequences. We must have a coordinated response to the
known and potential health problems resulting from this spill
for the sake of the health of the clean-up workers and
volunteers, the people living in affected communities, and
Americans who, even though distant from the problem, might
consume contaminated seafood. That response can only be led by
the highest levels of the federal government. This is an issue
that reaches beyond the purview and abilities of local and state
health authorities, although their expertise and advice must
undoubtedly be harnessed. It is an issue that requires
coordination of a wide range of agencies a