What does the National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) do?

The National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) plays a crucial role in animal health by providing diagnostic support during outbreaks of disease. This network consists of state and federal laboratories that work together to enhance the nation’s capabilities to quickly and accurately respond to animal health emergencies, particularly when a disease outbreak occurs. By facilitating timely diagnostic testing and sharing information among laboratories, NAHLN helps to identify and control outbreaks, ensuring the well-being of animal populations and public health.

The focus of NAHLN is on diagnostic testing rather than implementing breeding programs, vaccination campaigns, or regulating animal imports, which fall under the purview of different organizations or initiatives. This distinction highlights the network's primary mission of monitoring and managing animal health through laboratory diagnostics.