term impact on preparedness, such as generalizability to other potential hazards, must be considered in the evaluation process.

In closing, the committee encourages CDC to learn from the experience and research available from other fields, including, but not limited to disaster research and emergency and disaster response, and to develop the evidence base specific to public health preparedness; strengthen and sustain active coordination and communication with all relevant entities and government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels; and focus on continuous improvement in planning and performance to further the process and the goal of preparedness. The committee wishes to thank you for the continuing opportunity to be of assistance to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and its partners as they work to protect the nation’s health.