You might want to keep in mind a couple of important 1st world epidemic responses. (Containers with disinfectant solutions for hand washing is actually a really good idea for a 3rd or 4th world nation.)
1) Many US businesses are already becoming epidemic aware, in small ways, like providing wipes for shopping cart handles, and having hand sanitizer about. The “upgrade” to this is not particularly unusual, just setting up a hand sanitizer stand at the main entrance, as well as providing complementary ear-loop masks.
(Importantly, ear-loop masks are not designed to keep pathogens out, but to keep pathogens in. Think surgery. If you want to keep pathogens out, you need an N95 mask.)
2) A huge advantage the US has is its communication system. In a full blown epidemic, even small towns could create robo-call telephone banks, to systematically dial every number in the area at intervals, to provide quality information, but also to solicit needs for supplies and emergencies. It optimizes logistics and emergency services, and provides “health and welfare” checks.
This —
>>A huge advantage the US has is its communication system.
>>In a full blown epidemic, even small towns could create
>>robo-call telephone banks, to systematically dial every
>>number in the area at intervals, to provide quality
>>information, but also to solicit needs for supplies and
>>emergencies. It optimizes logistics and emergency
>>services, and provides “health and welfare” checks.
...is a hugely important point.
One that needs to be stated publicly where a lot of US public health officials can see, as I don’t think they have thought that far yet.
The implications of 3-to-6 week shelter in place for a population that has less than a week’s food supply on-hand and long life Ebola transmitting bio-contamination of food distribution outlets has not sunk in.