APHIS boosts animal health with $1M surveillance funding

By Scout Nelson

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is taking significant steps to boost national preparedness against animal diseases.

In a strategic move, APHIS is partnering with the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) and has announced a $1 million investment aimed at enhancing the surveillance of animal health.

This initiative focuses on conducting rapid investigations into unexplained illnesses and deaths among animals, aiming to detect potential threats before they can escalate.

This funding is part of a broader effort to protect animals and public health as well as to maintain the integrity of international trade.

By identifying and responding to disease threats early, APHIS and NAHLN are working to prevent outbreaks that could have devastating effects on both animals and humans.

Mike Watson, the APHIS Administrator, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. He stated, "The ability to rapidly diagnose unknown illnesses in animals is vital for preventing outbreaks and safeguarding public health."

This new cooperative agreement between APHIS and NAHLN signifies a major advancement in the agencies' ability to detect emerging threats swiftly, utilizing advanced testing and collaborative efforts.

This initiative represents a proactive approach to animal health surveillance, ensuring that both the agriculture sector and the wider community are better protected against potential health crises.

Through this partnership, APHIS and NAHLN are setting a new standard in the early detection and management of animal health issues, demonstrating a commitment to the wellbeing of animals, the public, and the stability of international trade.

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