Reaction to SARS Out of Proportion

Nothing can better document society’s lack of proportion and perspective than the present alarm about SARS (May 1). Without minimizing its seriousness and the threat it may pose to human health, the near panic and the economic disruptions are completely out of proportion to its importance.

Malaria infects millions in Africa, India, Southeast Asia and parts of South America year after year, devastating their peoples and the local economies. Three thousand children die every day in Africa alone, and the world does not even notice. Where is the United Nations, or the World Health Organization or the press?

Sergio C. Stone

Villa Park