Many exciting happenings occurred in the field of medicine in 2014. There were new genomic discoveries found for diseases like Autism. Nanotechnologies were researched with a vigorous interest. We all watched in awe as Google glass was taken and used in the operating room. We also saw a relative explosion of new wearable technology and a robust interest in telemedicine. All these advances make us so excited to see what 2015 will bring.
However, the biggest news item of 2014 was rather more sinister: the Ebola outbreak in western Africa. This is the biggest outbreak of Ebola that we have ever seen and healthcare workers continue to fight valiantly to contain. In fact, their bravery led them to be named Time’s person of the year and it was rightly deserved.
Ebola was not just a news item but taught us many lessons. While it was being said that it would never reach our shores, we all watched in dismay as the first cases ever diagnosed in the US hit the media. Our degree of being prepared to contain an outbreak here was hotly debated. Sure, breaches in protocol occurred and a few git infected who should not have been. But, it is important to keep in mind that this is a highly infectious disease that almost no one here has ever treated in the past. Protocols had to be developed as the news unfolded.
Travel bans from affected areas was also a hotly discussed topic. Even those who disagreed with the bans supported monitoring at airports and quarantining suspected people. This led to further controversy about how the isolation should be carried out.
We saw much success in the US in treating Ebola and preventing it from entering our country. Many people toiled away to make this happen and we should all be thankful to them At the same time, we need to remember those still laboring in Africa. Unless they halt the spread on that continent, there is always a chance that it can still spread. People are being horribly affected by this disease. And many children are being left as orphans.
This past year has been an exciting and fearful year in the world of medicine. I look eagerly to 2015 to see what is coming. I am hoping for more cures being developed from the scientific discoveries that are being made. Hopefully, the advances in genomic knowledge will be translated to clinical usefulness in the battle against disease. The same is true about the advancements in nanotechnologies. Technology is surging ahead at an unseen rate but needs to be adapted to those working on the frontlines. And mandates regarding their use curbed.
I wish everyone much health and happiness in the coming year. Thank you to all who have read and followed my blog. I appreciate all your support and look forward to being with you in the new year.
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