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 samples provides a scientific foundation for an appropriate public health response and can reduce disease prevalence and transmission.

Acceptable specimens

Specimens tested in the Biodefense Laboratory include:

The Biodefense Laboratory’s primary focus is analysis of clinical and environmental samples for the presence of highly pathogenic organisms. The NYS DOH Wadsworth Center Biodefense Laboratory is:

• One of 14 Advanced Laboratory Response Network labs in the US capable of providing capacity for rapid response to biothreat events
• One of 12 labs in the US receiving FDA funding as a Food Defense Microbiology Laboratory
• USDA funded Food Emergency Response Network (FERN) laboratory

The Biodefense Laboratory:

The Public Health Programs at the Wadsworth Center protect the health of New Yorkers through rapid and accurate identification of genetic diseases, infectious agents and environmental threats. Health is promoted by these programs through the development of new, more sensitive and rapid diagnostic tests.