The Defense Department Monitors the New Flu Strain



Posted: Wednesday, April 29, 2009

by Walter Rhett
Charleston Perlo

As the number of flu cases increase and the locations for the infection expand, the uniformed services must defend against the virus weakening its ranks.

How exactly does the military prepare for a flu outbreak? What risk is the potential deadly new strain of flu to the men and women who serve in our armed forces? Can operations planned for overseas be disrupted?

A Pentagon spokeswoman noted recently that the military has stockpiled over 7 million courses (doses) of flu vaccine. Each service branch has guidelines and contigency plans if a flu epidemic breaks out among the troops or the command leadership. The military also has plans and conducts exercises to aid the civilian population if an epidemic requires a state of emergency.

The Defense Department runs a Worldwide Influenza Survillence progam, began in 1976, through an Air Force laboratory in San Antonio, Texas to identify and monitor infected cases and to track the spread of any detected infection and issue alerts about emerging strains among all branches of service. The lab's database is updated every 8 hours.

The Defense Department is also reinforcing information on preventing infection and its spread. As is true for civilians, military personnel lessen their infected rates by covering their mouths whenever individuals cough or sneeze, turning away from others. Handwashing is also emphasized as a preventive measure. Lastly, the military urges individuals to maintain "social distance" if flu cases have been reported. Avoid groups and limit social activities.

At present, no cases of the new flu strain have been reported among active military personnel, but two youth, both members of military families came down with the new strain in a Texas town. Both youth have now fully recovered.

Walter Rhett Walter Rhett attended Ohio State and writes from Charleston, SC. He writes about national and global affairs with an eye on Southern history and culture and enjoys listening to his readers.

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