Maybe some people who post on SS cannot talk to their partners or other 'real' people in their life, concerning certain subjects. Having somewhere to be able to discuss certain subjects may be helpful for them?
For the ones who dislike these types of subjects...just don't read them.
I think discussion on this topic is very relevant ... just not to the drama queen - world is going to end - extreme that some take it to.
There are also a few on the forum atm that are posting negativity everywhere - it's nice to throw a positive in occasionally to try and balance things.
Personally - yes Ebola is horrific for those dealing with it. But people like myself are just better off staying out of the way, and supporting in a positive manner, those who have the ability to "do" something ... and not spread panic because panic solves nothing