When, not If

When it comes to things like influenza epidemics, we are the world. Experts are saying that a worldwide epidemic of avian flu is a matter of when, not if, and that it will kill millions, and perhaps tens of millions.

Since many of these deadly viruses originate in China, where conditions are crowded, humans and animals often live in close contact, and the communist government there doesn't have a good record of responding to outbreaks, the United States needs to view China's public health as a matter of our national security.

Aside from the obvious humanitarian concerns, as a matter of naked self-interest, let's provide whatever money and expertise China needs to get a handle on these outbreaks ... before they reach our shores.