Posted on: Saturday, November 3, 2001

Editorial
Fear of anthrax — and common sense

There's no denying the frightening nature of the anthrax threat that confronts us, but should we let it change our lives?

It's a matter of perspective — and common sense. Sure, it's spooky that we so far have no clue as to the identity of the perpetrator, and no hint about who might be targeted next.

But keep in mind that so far there are 17 confirmed cases of anthrax, with four deaths.

Compare that to the average number of deaths annually in this country from diseases that are vaccine-preventable: 20,000 deaths from influenza, and another 20,000 from pneumonia and hepatitis B.

Or consider that an average of 420,000 Americans — 1,300 Hawai'i residents — die each year as a result of tobacco-related illness. Should you open your mail with a mask on — or quit smoking?

Nationally, on average, there are 43,299 deaths per year caused by motor vehicle crashes, 91,502 deaths caused by other injuries ( falls, drowning, homicide, fire, etc.). Last year in Hawai'i, there were 152 deaths due to suicide, 146 deaths from motor vehicle accidents, 86 due to falls, and 64 due to drowning.

Most of these deaths are preventable if we are careful, limit our drinking and watch each other's backs.

Again, there are 17 anthrax cases, four of them fatal. It's certainly cause for concern, and some basic precautions in opening mail. But let's not lose our grip. The terrorists win if we let it rule our lives.