In the event of an Ebola outbreak in Australia, the country's robust healthcare system and public health infrastructure would be pivotal in managing the crisis. However, the challenge lies not only in containing the disease but also in maintaining the preparedness and resilience of these systems over time. Australia's recent experience with COVID-19 has raised public awareness about infectious diseases, but it has also exposed vulnerabilities in the healthcare system. The establishment of a national Centre for Disease Control is a step in the right direction, but the real test lies in ensuring that the system remains vigilant and well-equipped, even in the absence of immediate threats. The article emphasizes the importance of global cooperation and proactive measures to prevent outbreaks, rather than waiting for them to occur. It highlights the need to support surveillance systems, rapid response teams, laboratory testing, and vaccination efforts in affected regions. While Ebola is not an imminent threat to Australia, the article serves as a reminder that the country must remain vigilant and prepared for new infectious diseases, as the next outbreak could be different from any previous experience. The author, Professor Brendan Crabb, calls for a sustained commitment to maintaining the systems that made the recent Ebola response possible, even when the headlines have moved on.
