Kudos to Cuomo, Christie

A few days ago, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (a Democrat) and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie (a Republican) ordered that air passengers originating in Ebola-stricken countries who landed at New York and New Jersey airports would be subject to quarantines of 21 days.

This was opposed by the Obama administration, and both governors were subjected to severe criticism by the Old Media, which has consistently deferred to the president and his policies.

In fact, the action of Governors Cuomo and Christie were a much-needed temporary response to the international health  threat which, if not contained, could become a worldwide pandemic.

The first person quarantined was a nurse who had cared for Ebola patients in West Africa, and had a temperature recorded when she first landed in the U.S. She subsequently was determined not to have the virus, and Governor Christie released her. She is now in her home state of Maine.

The criticism of the two governors has been obviously political. Governor Christie especially is a potential candidate for president in 2016, and the liberal media has for months been relentless in its efforts to discredit him.

A quarantine is an extreme measure that should only be used when there is a clear and present danger. It is very inconvenient for those quarantined. But it is only 21 days, and considering how ebola is ravaging West African nations, it seems a necessary action at this time, especially for those who have had direct contact with the disease. Voluntary or self-quarantines apparently have not worked. Even medical personnel who should know  better have failed to observe the required protocols.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, in contrast to his boss, President Obama, supports the 21-day quarantine. U.S. Army troops, including a general, who were sent to East Africa are now in quarantine before returning to the U.S.

If these actions by the governors and the defense secretary seem by some to be an overreaction, they are at least on the side of prudent caution.

The measures for quarantine can be adjusted so that persons such as the nurse can be released. Governor Christie did this. Neither he nor Governor Cuomo should be reproached for their serious efforts to reassure the public and provide proper protection to the general populace.

They, in fact, deserve public praise for taking charge at a time when others were supposed to lead, and did not.