Vitals Spotlight - We Give the Doctor an Exam

Dr. Richard Besser

Dr. Richard Besser, Acting Director for the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has been the televised voice regularly updating the nation on the spread of swine flu across the country and the world.

The story is still unfolding. Even the professionals are uncertain about the severity of this strain or the extent of fatalities that will result. But the discomfort of not knowing is softened by the voice of Dr. Richard Besser, who encourages everybody to keep living their lives.

“If you have flu or flu-like symptoms, you shouldn’t be getting on an airplane or you shouldn’t be getting in the subway, but for the general population that’s fine to do.”

He advises the country to become familiar with the flu’s symptoms and vigilantly practice prevention.

“The symptoms are similar to a typical flu infection and the best way to prevent the disease is by taking precautions we were taught as kids like covering your mouth and washing your hands well. Sing “Happy Birthday” as you wash your hands to make sure you’ve washed them long enough to get rid of germs.”

According to Vitals, he began his career at the CDC in the Epidemic Intelligence Service tracking E coli infections and preparing for health emergencies. He became its acting director in January of 2009. Besser received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania and completed a chief residency in pediatrics at John Hopkins University.

A virtual unknown at the CDC, he was chosen as the government’s chief spokesman mainly because the top health positions hadn’t yet been filled. But he quickly became a household name, exceeding everyone’s expectations.

His compassion, directness and avoidance of medical lingo have been a significant factor in offsetting any panic caused by the sensationalist reporting of the general press.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. RICHARD BESSER.

Dear Readers: Is the press sensationalizing the details of this epidemic or is the government minimizing what they know to avoid panic?