PNNL

Abstract

Outbreaks of infectious diseases, coupled with an increasing biological threat from non-state actors, highlight the continued need to prioritize biodefense. The Blue Ribbon Panel on Biodefense has noted that the US remains ‘underprepared’ for a catastrophic biological attack or pandemic and emphasized increased coordination is essential. Consistent with this recommendation, the FY17 National Defense Authorization Act tasked the Secretaries of Defense, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, and Agriculture to “jointly develop a national biodefense strategy and associated implementation plan, which shall include a review and assessment of biodefense policies, practices, programs and initiatives.”