New York State's Biodefense Laboratory

Service

The ability to perform definitive testing for pathogens that cause human and animal disease is a critical public health function. Rapid, accurate and sensitive testing of clinical specimens, environmental specimens, food, and water provides a scientific foundation for an appropriate public health response and reduces disease prevalence and transmission.

• Sample analysis of both clinical and environmental samples for pathogens which could be used as biological weapons or which can cause natural outbreaks (e.g., tularemia, plague).
• Production and distribution of CODE RED quick-cards to first responders to aid in biothreat credibility assessment and interagency communication.
• Production and distribution of environmental Biothreat Collection kits to first responders [image of collection kit].
• Production and distribution of Smallpox Collection kits to clinical laboratories, hospitals, and regional health departments [image of collection kit].
• Production and distribution of B-SAFE (Basic Select Agent Flowcharts and Evaluation) benchcards to clinical diagnostic labs.
• Site inspections of Biosafety laboratories in New York State in collaboration with NYS environmental laboratory approval program (ELAP).
• Participation in federal biodefense-related programs including:
  • LRN: Laboratory Response Network, with CDC
  • FERN: Food Emergency Response Network, with USDA and FDA
  • eLRN: Environmental Lab Response Network, with EPA
• Participation in NYS Interagency Taskforce on Food Safety and Security
• Lab confirmation for U.S. Postal Service's Biohazard Detection System (BDS), and National Guard's Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team.
• Review of diagnostic assay test data submitted for state approval

For Information on Sample Submission go to our Resources web page or for Packaging and Shipping of suspect Biothreats go to our Packaging and Shipping web page.