Headquarters, Department of the Army, is working with the Department of Defense and other agencies of the USG in planning for an expected pandemic outbreak of influenza, [principally of the avian type.]

What is DOD doing to prepare for Pandemic Influenza? Since the publication of the DOD Implementation Plan for Pandemic Influenza in August 2006, the Secretary of Defense’s principal responsibility in responding to a pandemic will be to protect U.S. interests at home and abroad. Our pandemic defense will include assisting partner countries to prepare for and detect an outbreak, respond should one occur, and manage the key second-order effects that could lead to an array of challenges.

For more information on national guidance for Pandemic Influenza:

First Tier

• WHO.int
• Redcross.org
• CDC.gov
• HHS.gov
• USDA.gov

Second Tier

• Pandemic Influenza Watchboard
• Pandemicflu.gov
• Whitehouse.gov
• DHS.gov

Experienced observers of the Bu$h malAdministration will recognize that the First Tier sources should be checked for timely and accurate information. Second Tier sources will provide upbeat, reassuring information.

UPDATE: Frequent reader Judyo advises that the First Tier sources CDC, HHS, and UDA (all .gov sites) are not to be relied upon for accurate information. Judyo recommends paying attention to the Fluwiki web site.

Simple soul that I am, I presumed the medical professionals in the Bu$h malAdministration could be relied upon. Sigh. Of course I believe in elves and fairies. So what?