A deadly new virus has killed thousands in the Far East and is very contagious. It is now found to be spreading in the United States. One antiviral drug is the only known treatment, and that drug is in short supply. It will take months to ramp up manufacturing for this medication.

The virus struck your town a few days ago. It affects people of all ages and demographics, including your health care workers. Twenty percent of those infected will die if not treated with the antiviral drug. It is particularly deadly for healthy pre-teens and pregnant women.

Your community's public health agency will receive the first shipment of the antiviral drug in a few days, but only enough to treat about one-half of the seriously ill patients who need it. This supply must be divided among the hospitals and clinics. After this supply is exhausted, there is no other pipeline to access the drug.

You are the Director of the Health Department, and your agency is preparing guidelines for which patients to treat with this limited supply drug.

All answers and replies should be substantive. Back up all positions/opinions with research of credible peer-reviewed literature.

1. In your first post, answer each of the following questions:
   • Should your agency's guidelines prioritize health care workers for treatment? What about other workers that society relies on such as police, firefighters, and other key workers?
   • What are the best reasons for and against such a policy?
   • Your agency has recommended to you that the limited-supply drug be given to the two high-risk groups (young adults and pregnant women). Do you agree with this approach? Why or why not?