Publicist Lauren Papapietro denied initial media reports the singer had been admitted to hospital to be treated for his condition.

BBC: Morrissey postpones show due to double pneumonia

They helped decide to limit Palin's initial media contact to high-profile interviews with Charlie Gibson of ABC and Katie Couric of CBS, which all McCain sources admit were highly damaging.

CNN: Palin's off-script comments irk McCain aides

However, McClellan denied allegations that the White House ignored warnings about Katrina and said Bush's statement about the levees was referring to initial media reports that New Orleans had been spared the worst.

CNN: Lieberman: White House hindering Katrina probe