As a part of a global community, we should ask: how can we collectively be more proactive in preventing disease and the spread of disease? How do your daily actions and decisions, from your purchases to your lunch order, impact the larger global population?

First and foremost, funding for national and international disease prevention is critical. We live in a highly connected world and science tells us that, because of modern air travel, a pathogen is only about 36 hours from anywhere in the world right to our homes.

Moreover, the impact of an infection that is out of control may remain in its geographical location, but can impact our logistical needs worldwide. This can include food, clothes, our electronics, and other critical aspects that enable our lifestyles.

Ultimately, this means we need to think globally and act locally. To speak generally, we are underprepared for global health crises and remain reactive instead of proactive. Most people assume this only has to do with funding and monetary resources, but it is equally due flaws in our collective mindset. We must invest in basic research, new technologies, and eventually distribution of that knowledge and capability around the world—the distributive medical model.