NAHLN: 2023 NATIONAL ANIMAL HEALTH LABORATORY NETWORK, LEVEL 1

<b>Project Methods</b><br> The AHDC offers a comprehensive array of assays and platforms in all diagnostic domains under AAVLD accreditation and for select assays in virology, bacteriology, serology and molecular diagnostics under A2LA ISO 17025 accreditation to test for animal disease agents and disease. In particular, for this project, the AHDC molecular diagnostics, virology and histopathology laboratories have implemented the NAHLN standardized tests for diseases that affect or have the potential to affect livestock and poultry in the Northeast including influenza and exotic Newcastle disease, classical and African swine fevers, chronic wasting disease and scrapie, foot and mouth disease, and swine influenza. The AHDC in addition, has expanded its whole genome sequencing capabilities for detection of emerging diseases and support of epidemiologic investigations. The AHDC is set up to test for animal SARS-CoV-2 infection in all animal species by PCR, serology and sequencing. The AHDC currently is activated in the national response to the highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak, testing for NY and surrounding states, as well as for the USDA APHIS Wildbird HPAI Surveillance Program. The AHDC furthermore, in the past and in the context of this current project is actively pursuing enhanced electronic communication tools to message testing data to its federal partners in Veterinary Services. The AHDC also participates in regional and national emergency preparedness exercises and is set to respond.