As American general surgeons under the Trump, Obama, Bush and Clinton administrations, we have dedicated our careers to protect the health of all Americansboth nationally and globally.

Through our experiences, we have witnessed the profound impact of public health crises – extending from conflicts and natural disasters to the recent COVID-19 pandemic – on individuals, communities and nations as a whole. We have also witnessed up close the real and lasting impact of U.S. leadership, action, and collaboration in protecting Americans at home and abroad. For general surgeons, there is no higher goal or greater outcome.

But as we have all seen, when public health is compromised, the repercussions extend far beyond physical well-being. Economic growth, employment opportunities, access to education and overall societal well-being are threatened when health safety is not a priority. That’s why we call for a renewed emphasis on America’s leadership and responsibility for global health security to avoid such crises in the future.

Diseases transcend borders into American homes

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how a health emergency originating in one part of the world can quickly turn into a threat to our own way of life. The strains on health systems, the sacrifices of frontline workers and the tragic loss of life have left an indelible mark on our society.

Additionally, the economic impact of the pandemic has been profound, with billions of dollars lost in the United States And global economies.

Looking ahead, it is imperative to recognize the growing risk of future pandemics and epidemics. Diseases transcend borders and can proliferate rapidly through contemporary travel and trade networks. The safety and security of the United States is intimately linked to the health and well-being of people around the world.

It is therefore essential to make global health security a fundamental national security imperative.

Throughout history, surgeons general have been at the forefront of fighting the spread of disease and advocating for health measures that protect all Americans. The success of past investments in global health initiatives – such as eradication of smallpox and efforts to confronting the HIV/AIDS crisis ‒ highlights the importance of collaborative actions with international partners and organizations, such as the World Health Organization, to proactively prevent and respond to health threats.

Global health security defends our national security

As the new Trump administration takes office, we implore its leaders to prioritize global health security and Vaccine Trust: A Critical National Security Issue. Strong public health infrastructure and global cooperation are essential to strengthening our defenses against infectious diseases.

By consistently supporting initiatives that protect people around the world, we can ensure the health and well-being of Americans within our borders.

Although we, former surgeons general of the United States, have served in different political administrations, we were – and remain – aligned with the fundamental principle that the best science should form the basis of our recommendations. We believe that this must and will continue to be the North Star by which we follow in the future development and implementation of health policy in the United States, for the health and well-being of our citizens and the people around the world.

The importance of global health security cannot be overstated. The disease respects no borders and can strike at any time, as evidenced by recent epidemics of H5N1 avian flu, Marburg disease and the 2019 case of measles in Samoa, which cost the lives of 83 people.

It is impossible to effectively pursue new administrative priorities when faced with preventable infectious disease threats and outbreaks. By fostering global health initiatives and building vaccine confidence through evidence-based practices, we can strengthen the health and safety of all Americans and our planet.

Now is the time for our new leaders to reaffirm America’s commitment to global health security and uphold our legacy of leadership in this critical area.

Dr. Joycelyn Elders15th Surgeon General, 1993-94. Dr Richard Carmona17th Surgeon General, 2002-06. Dr Jerome Adams20th Surgeon General, 2017-21. Dr. Kenneth MoritsuguActing Surgeon General in 2002 and 2006-07. Dr. Boris LushniakActing Surgeon General, 2013-2014.

This article was originally published on USA TODAY: Public health requires preparing for future epidemics | Notice