Dr. David Brett Major: A Medical Hero in Quarantine Operations

Dr. David Brett Major, an infectious disease specialist and epidemiology professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is celebrated for his significant work in managing high-risk pathogens like Ebola in challenging environments. He has substantial experience in sub-Saharan Africa and is actively involved in the U.S. State Department team that returned 18 individuals from Tenerife, Canary Islands, to various quarantine facilities in Nebraska. Among them, one traveler was transported to Emory for special isolation after testing weakly positive for hantavirus.

In a recent discussion, Major mentioned that, thankfully, there weren’t any “unforeseen events” during the flight from the Canary Islands to Omaha, despite one passenger being infected with the Andean hantavirus.

Standing outside the National Quarantine Center, I recalled my visit back in February 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. That time, the same dedicated team, including Dr. Major, was diligently researching the novel coronavirus. Now, while the virus they face is different and the risks seem lower, their commitment remains steadfast in containing the threat.

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Major displays an approachable demeanor and expresses no fear of contracting the virus himself. It’s interesting, perhaps somewhat unconventional for a doctor these days. I mean, if I were genuinely worried, I wouldn’t be so close during the interview, he joked. He pointed out that, in many ways, fear can spread more aggressively than any virus—something that isn’t lost on those who consume news.

Describing the modified Boeing 747 that transported passengers from the MV Hondius cruise ship, he said it was quite basic inside. “It’s a naked plane,” he remarked, lacking insulation and noise-dampening features. One might expect bucket seats reminiscent of an old military plane, but instead, there were modern seating arrangements on metal tracks, designed for easy movement.

The plane was specially equipped, carrying 23,000 pounds of biocontainment canisters for one confirmed case and another symptomatic passenger heading to Emory.

“It’s like a mini intensive care unit,” Major explained, detailing how the front of the aircraft is set up for healthcare workers and isolated individuals. Equipped with four beds and medical monitors, it holds all essentials for providing care.

Some members of the support team hail from Phoenix Air Group, known for their international ambulance services, while Major himself has an extensive background as a Navy surgeon.

As they flew back to the U.S., Major and his team contemplated how to optimize the aircraft space for interaction, aiming to ensure that returning passengers don’t feel too detached even while prioritizing safety.

In terms of safety protocols, Major described how team members have varying roles and protective gear. While he opts for basic protective equipment, the Phoenix team dons higher-grade PPE for their prolonged duties.

What truly distinguishes Dr. Major is his concern for those isolated due to hantavirus exposure. Dr. Craig Spencer, known for his battle against Ebola, shared insights on the psychological toll of prolonged isolation. “Imagine being stuck in one place for five weeks,” he reflected. “I spent 19 days isolated, and it’s hard enough. Think about the impact on your mental and physical well-being.”