In the heart of Nebraska, a city that makes headlines every six years, lies a medical center with a unique and crucial role. The University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) has become a pivotal player in the global fight against infectious diseases, particularly those with high-consequence outcomes. This article delves into the fascinating story of UNMC's preparedness, its pioneering work, and the broader implications for healthcare and public health.
A City on the Map
Omaha, Nebraska, is not typically the first place that comes to mind when thinking about global health crises. However, this midsize city has become a focal point for medical attention due to its state-of-the-art medical facilities and the expertise of its staff. The UNMC, in particular, has gained international recognition for its ability to handle some of the most challenging and dangerous infectious diseases.
One of the most intriguing aspects of UNMC's reputation is its history of preparing for and treating patients exposed to high-consequence infectious diseases. From the Ebola epidemic in 2014 to the recent hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship, the center has consistently been at the forefront of these crises.
The Pioneer: Philip Smith
At the heart of UNMC's success is the visionary physician Philip Smith, who led the establishment of the Biocontainment Unit in 2005. Smith's dedication to preparing for potential bioterrorist attacks and the SARS outbreak in 2003 was instrumental in the unit's readiness for the Ebola crisis in 2014. His foresight and commitment to keeping the unit's resources available for true emergencies have been invaluable.
Smith's influence extends beyond the Biocontainment Unit. He originated many infection containment and personal protective equipment practices that are now standard across medicine. His early adoption of telemedicine during the Ebola outbreak allowed for remote patient care and reduced the running time of the autoclave, a crucial sterilization machine.
The Biocontainment Unit: A Pioneer in Infection Containment
The Biocontainment Unit, located within UNMC, is a marvel of modern medicine. It is designed to treat patients with highly infectious diseases, providing a safe and controlled environment for both patients and healthcare staff. The unit's success in treating Ebola patients without any infections of healthcare staff is a testament to its effectiveness.
The unit's five rooms are meticulously designed to manage extra-infectious patients, with each step of the process carefully managed. The staff's quarterly drills in infection prevention and quarantine processes ensure that they are always prepared for any eventuality. The virtual tour of the Biocontainment Unit offers a glimpse into the intricate anti-contamination dance that takes place within its walls.
The Quarantine Unit: A Comfortable Haven
In contrast to the Biocontainment Unit, the Quarantine Unit is more like a hotel than a patient care space. It is designed to provide a comfortable environment for patients under observation, with exercise equipment and a TV to keep them entertained. However, the floors are entirely seamless, and the air is continually swapped out using negative pressure systems, ensuring that no virus can hide.
The Quarantine Unit's unique design and protocols make it the only one of its kind in the country. It is a testament to UNMC's ability to adapt and provide a safe and comfortable environment for patients in need.
The Hantavirus Outbreak: A Global Health Crisis
The recent hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship has once again brought the UNMC into the global spotlight. The center's Quarantine Unit is currently under observation for 16 Americans exposed to the virus. The unit's ability to provide a safe and controlled environment for these patients is a testament to its expertise and preparedness.
The hantavirus outbreak has also underscored the need for institutions like UNMC. The Quarantine and Biocontainment units not only protect patients but also provide a place for doctors to learn more about new and dangerous pathogens. The Andes hantavirus strain, for example, is still a mystery, and UNMC's expertise is crucial in understanding how the virus spreads.
The Way Forward: A Global Health Partnership
As the Americans under observation in the Quarantine Unit are held for up to six weeks, per World Health Organization guidelines, UNMC is working with its U.S. public health partners to determine if and when each patient can be released. The center's expertise and preparedness are crucial in this process, and its collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will ensure that the patients receive the best possible care.
In conclusion, the University of Nebraska Medical Center is a shining example of how a midsize city can become a global health hub. Its preparedness, pioneering work, and expertise in handling high-consequence infectious diseases are invaluable. As the world continues to grapple with new and emerging diseases, institutions like UNMC will play a crucial role in protecting patients and advancing our understanding of these complex pathogens.
