Recent events in East Malaysia sends out a disturbing signal on Malaysia's capabilities in the event of an infectious disease disaster. As the hand, foot and mouth disease(HFMD) ravages through Sarawak with a reported total of 13,200 infections this year, one cannot help but question if the authorities are doing enough to curb a widening catastrophe. With epidemics of deadly infectious diseases, in particular, bird flu, in neighbouring countries, one would expect extreme vigilance and adequate preparedness in the face of an impending disaster of staggering proportions.

We may have everything laid out on paper but how are we faring on the ground? Are our responses going to be swift, well organised and precise? Or will we falter into confusion, haphazardness and panic?

Being in a tertiary center only highlights a surprisingly lackaidaisical atmosphere. Perhaps the threat is not taken seriously enough. If an infectious disease epidemic was to occur today, our Infectious disease teams will be stretched to its very limits perhaps till breaking point. There will be confusion as to roles to be played. A delayed response may not only prove fatal to patients but health workers alike, making them sacrificial pawns.

Health authorities need to infuse a certain level of attentiveness in its frontline staff. Drills, briefings and continuing education should be routine. Failure to do so only invites doom.