Ethics of Ebola Quarantines

The current outbreak of EVD has reached major cities, rather than just small, isolated villages. With this increased access to a far greater population of people, letting the disease burn itself out is no longer an option. By forcing cordon sanitaires, Public Health officials run an incredibly high ethical risk, which must be acknowledged, regardless of the danger posed to communities. If countries, NGO’s and the WHO can ensure that the basic needs of those who are caught in forced quarantines are met, then these methods may work. However, if these needs are not met, major ethical issues arise, and those must be dealt with. These ethical issues include infringement on individual liberties, limitations of autonomy, and violations of basic human rights