Mercy Professor Published for Article on Ebola Outbreak in Major Medical News Outlet

Mercy College Professor Dr. Rossi Hassad was published on a major medical news site, MedPage Today, for his article on the ongoing outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The piece, “Another Ebola Outbreak in the DRC — Cause for concern and why we should go back to basics,” was featured in response to 10th reported outbreak in the DRC, which has merited concern from the World Health Organization.

Hassad, professor in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, is a recognized member of the American College of Epidemiology, and is closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds. As a known epidemiologist, Hassad has been approached for his analysis before, both by MedPage Today and by major news outlets, including more than 30 media outlets in 2014.

In a short excerpt from his article, Hassad writes: “This pattern of spread, in this context, is a perfect recipe for an epidemiological nightmare, and the forthrightness and transparency of the WHO in sounding the alarm early, should help to mobilize much-needed resources and adequate governmental response in that region and internationally. A major challenge is this regard, is the fact that Ebola Virus Disease is no longer a novel threat worldwide, like it was portrayed and experienced during the 2014 outbreak in West Africa. Rather, it may now be perceived by many as a familiar threat that can be managed, especially given recent publications suggesting that there is an effective Ebola vaccine. Such public perception must be properly addressed.”

Click here to view the full article by Hassad on MedPage Today.