Faith-based organizations and pandemic preparedness. Church-related groups will be vital partners in getting ready for an influenza pandemic.

/ \ s k p i sk people about pandemic influenza and you'll likely hear a variety of , responses ranging from those who don't believe it is a real problem to those who envision a doomsday scenario. The truth is that it is prudent to plan for a pandemic occurrence. Faith-based and community-based organizations (FBCOs) are essential partners both in preparations for an influenza pandemic and in protecting the public's health and safety should one occur. In this article, I hope to help readers understand that the threat of pandemic influenza is real and to actively engage them in preparing for a severe occurrence.