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Panel reports shortfalls in biological threat preparedness

A blue ribbon biodefense panel says there are shortfalls in proposed responses to biological threats to animal agriculture and the U.S. food supply.  The panel, made up of cabinet officials, former congressional leaders and others, says there’s a need for more leadership, funding and agency cooperation to improve the ability to prevent such threats. The report’s authors say the possibility of nefarious introduction of livestock diseases, including those that can infect humans, indicate the need to exert more effort to combat such threats.

The panel proposes that the National Biodefense Strategy address threats to food and agriculture, and that cooperation be formalized between the USDA and law enforcement agencies.  It also specifically addresses the establishment of a foot-and-mouth disease vaccine bank.

The report pushes Congress to fund federal wildlife surveillance efforts and facilitate increased data collection from livestock and wildlife populations.  It also proposes continued funding for the National Animal Health Laboratory Network at no less than current authorized levels, with the possibility of additional funds should they be needed.