CDC Director Dr. Thomas Frieden began his grilling Thursday on Capitol Hill with a stark admission that his agency is still searching for ways to combat the Ebola virus as it burrows into the United States. 'We're always open to ideas for what we can do to keep Americans safe,' Frieden said in his opening statement, in a startling departure from his prepared remarks in the face of a hostile and impatient panel in a House Energy and Commerce subcommittee. 'We would consider any options to better protect Americans,' he said later during the hearing's Q&A period. Frieden's statements will not inspire already-shattered public confidence. The first Ebola patient identified on U.S. soil, Thomas Eric Duncan, was misdiagnosed.
@highlight
Congressmen in hearing were hopping mad at CDC screwups and White House promises
@highlight
Obama spokesman cast blame at CDC director Thomas Frieden's feet and says he's 'taking responsibility'
@highlight
Arizona and Pennsylvania congressmen want Frieden fired, along with South Dakota senator and Florida's governor
@highlight
He testified along with National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases chief Anthony Fauci
@highlight
Officials in charge of Texas hospital that misdiagnosed Thomas Eric Duncan admitted his staff got no specialized Ebola training
@highlight
White House said Frieden – not Obama – was 'taking responsibility'
'We cannot afford such mistakes when @placeholder lives are at risk.