Advanced molecular detection methods such as Next Generation Sequencing, and testing for antimicrobial resistant bacteria, Zika virus and biosafety for high consequence pathogens will be enhanced at the State Hygienic Laboratory due to increased support from the CDC’s Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity Cooperative Agreement (ELC). More than $2 million for fiscal year 2017 was awarded to SHL, nearly double the funding of the previous year.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), in partnership with the State Hygienic Laboratory, annually submits proposals in response to the ELC funding opportunity announcement. This allows the State Hygienic Laboratory to expand in capabilities that would benefit Iowa.

The grant to Iowa is part of the $240 million national ELC award that provides funding for critical public health infrastructure in preventing and controlling known and emerging infectious diseases. These include influenza surveillance, foodborne disease outbreak response and prevention, and vaccine-preventable disease-outbreak responses. All 50 states, eight U. S. territories and six of the nation’s largest city health departments receive some level of ELC funding. In addition to laboratory capacity, ELC funding also supports IDPH epidemiology and health information systems for both IDPH and the Hygienic Laboratory.