Bush’s Vaccine Plan Requires Medical Help

Re “Medical Groups Criticize Bush’s Smallpox Vaccine Plan,” Dec. 20: Are we so benumbed and terrified by the warmongering of this president that we are willing to submit to his guidance even in matters of public health? Before we abdicate our reason entirely, wouldn’t it be more appropriate that someone with perhaps a little more medical expertise than President Bush -- oh, say, the surgeon general -- might inspire a bit more confidence in this matter?

It is Bush’s own saber-rattling that, in no small way, continues to put us at risk in the first place. In his relentless quest to slash health benefits, trash the environment and cut heat subsidies for the poor, this president has demonstrated reckless disregard for the interests of the people. And now we are to look to him for guidance in this public health crisis? And what was the name of that medical school from which he graduated? Or is that a secret too? I am thankful that the medical community is finally weighing in on this potentially grave national health issue.

Ann Steindlberger

Fountain Valley