Vet-LIRN: Improving infrastructure and response capabilities at the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Project Summary The objective of this cooperative agreement between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network (Vet-LIRN) and the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL), University of Connecticut, is to provide the network with increased sample testing and data analysis capabilities. By obtaining support from FDA via the 5-years infrastructure grant, CVMDL will be able to support interventions by the network in events that compromise the health or well- being of animals. CVMDL will be able to provide testing;  Including routine microbiological analysis of samples submitted by Vet-LIRN to the laboratory, including feed samples, environmental samples, and clinical samples derived from different animal species.  CVMDL will conduct testing if samples are collected during outbreak investigations or surveys conducted by FDA or through the network by State and Federal Government agencies.  CVMDL will conduct necropsies of animals submitted by Vet-LIRN for testing or for case investigation purposes.  This cooperative agreement will support proficiency testing and training activities as directed by the Vet-LIRN.  Funding requested by CVMDL to FDA Vet-LIRN will be used to procure necessary supplies, maintain equipment, and partially support laboratory personnel salaries. Our successful current and past participation in the Vet-LIRN demonstrates our keen interest in investigating emerging threats to animal health. CVMDL as a nationally accredited laboratory has qualified personnel and a comprehensive quality assurance program. The expertise and knowledge available at CVMDL and the University of Connecticut warrant the feasibility and execution of this agreement.