The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) has just completed successfully in Perth with the joint assistance of the Australian Government, Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Western Australian State Government. While the considerable capabilities of the ADF did not need to be seriously tested, the planning from all agencies ensured a smooth and trouble-free meeting. What is not necessarily highlighted in the media and elsewhere is that the large amounts of planning, liaison and exercising, which is required to make such meetings happen, does not just spontaneously occur, but is the result of the application of good Defence, police and health planning principles. While I am grateful that we did not need to access the skills and expertise of ADF colleagues, it was very reassuring to know that the reach-back capability was there should we have needed it.
CHOGM also highlighted the ongoing issues with infectious diseases and tropical diseases in many of the member countries. In this issue, we are looking particularly at tropical diseases of operational importance, with original articles on the impact of rickettsial disease and influenza on deployed forces. We also look at other environmental hazards, from pesticides to injury patterns in various groups of soldiers. All the articles are intended to challenge, educate and broaden the operational and strategic viewpoint of our members. We would particularly welcome continuing discussion on the issues of current military operations, current military and veterans health issues, military health history and military-civil interactions.
As we head into 2012, we will have further themed issues and ask prospective authors to consider whether they may have suitable articles for those themed issues. Other military and veterans’ health articles are always very welcome and we would encourage all our readers to consider writing on their areas of military or veterans’ health interest.
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