Laboratory response : on the front lines of America's health

Abstract

In the event of an outbreak, bioterrorist attack, or chemical or radiological release, we need laboratory capacity to quickly detect, diagnose, and treat those who are impacted.Trained laboratory experts think ahead to future risks and stay on the cutting edge of science to address an ever-evolving set of dangers. When an illness arises, laboratories help confirm or rule out the cause and inform next steps for action.Laboratories figure out what tests are needed, develop them when necessary, and get them to those who need to use them. They can discover and address everyday threats like foodborne illnesses or flu, and extraordinary incidents like anthrax or chemical or radiological events.CS272950Gissue_brief_lab.pd