SMALLPOX UPDATE: Reader Jack Bell sends this:

You forgot another possible explanation for a smallpox outbreak: Some Al Queda operative screwed up while preparing a bio-weapon and it got loose. In fact I would say that, other than there being no outbreak at all, this is the simplest explanation being as we know they are hiding out in Pakistan at this time and we know they are interested in such things and do not care about worldwide condemnation of their actions (as opposed to the Pakistani government, which does care).

Bell attaches a lengthy email, the gist of which is that we should watch for outbreaks of unusual diseases in obscure places, as indications that someone may be doing such research.