Apropos the editorial "Fearing MERS" (July 26), there are three types of disasters - natural, nuclear and biological. While each disaster needs its team of specialists, the army is necessary for "sequestering and containment operations". Recall how during the Surat plague, cars were allowed to leave towards Mumbai and Baroda. Only the army could have enforced a blockade. It may be noted that the most virulent form of variola major - the small pox virus, now preserved by the Russian FSB (old KGB) for germ warfare - was the India-67 strain. Obtained in 1967 from Bihar, this virus has a mortality rate, potency and longevity that beats all others. Surprisingly, we don't have any stock. Or do we?
T R Ramaswami Mumbai
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