Experts call for better flu plans. Leading scientists say the UK government is failing to take advantage of scientific developments in the fight to prevent a flu pandemic. [News Source]

China’s rise at the W.H.O.. The selection of Dr. Margaret Chan, a Chinese national, to lead the World Health Organization is a diplomatic triumph for China and an indication of the country's emerging presence on the world health stage. [News Source]

Bird flu update: 20 November 2006 (SciDev.net) Below is a roundup of the key developments on the spread of the bird flu virus (H5N1) and the threat it poses to human health. Each title is a link to the full article. [News Source]

Meeting to address readiness of poultry industry to deal with bird flu (AccessNorthGA) GAINESVILLE - A briefing is planned next month in Gainesville on the readiness of poultry industry to deal with bird flu. [News Source]

Bush says he’s keeping bird flu a top priority as he visits lab in Vietnam (CP via Yahoo! Canada News) HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam (AP) - U.S. President George W. Bush toured a bird flu lab Monday and praised Vietnam for its successful battle against the disease, pledging U.S. support and urging Southeast Asia to prepare for a potential pandemic. [News Source]

Bush keeps bird flu a top priority, visits lab in Vietnam (2:10 p.m.) (Chinapost.com.tw) U.S. President George W. Bush toured a bird flu lab Monday to encourage Vietnam in its successful battle against the disease, pledge U.S. support and urge Southeast Asia to be prepared to handle further outbreaks if they occur. [News Source]