April 18, 2008

US sets up diagnostic network for livestock diseases
 

The US has set up a network of diagnostic laboratories to protect itself from any future animal diseases.

The purpose of the network is to enable early detection, quick response and testing to show the appropriate level of recovery from animal diseases.

The network, which was first developed in 2002, comprises of diagnostic laboratories in 45 states. Each lab has its particular capabilities, which when combined together, would be able to process thousands of diagnostic samples crucial to eliminating animal disease on time.

Starting in May, lab leaders would learn the latest techniques in regards to robotic real-time testing equipment so that they could efficiently train their technicians.

The training is part of a cooperative agreement to develop and validate standard operating procedures for high-throughput testing of important foreign animal diseases, according to Gary Anderson, lab director of K-State's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, which is a member of the network. 

"The National Animal Health Laboratory Network emphasizes the significance and need for animal disease surveillance, which is critical to public health, food safety, national security and economic viability," Anderson said.

Surveillance requires high-throughput capabilities such as robotics and rigorous attention to standard operating procedures if accurate results are to be obtained early, quickly and routinely, said Anderson.