Testing is the foundation for effective pandemic response

Testing is the foundation of biological response.

The devastation of COVID-19 was felt around the world in deaths, serious illness, lost jobs, closed businesses, and  increased mistrust, deepening existing inequities and public health challenges. It is clear that we must do better next time, and, that there will be a next time. Fundamental to doing better -- to creating an effective, equitable, and community-driven pandemic response -- is a plan based on accurate and timely information – information that can only be garnered through widespread testing.

While every disease outbreak will unfold differently,

testing will always be at the center of response

to an outbreak involving a contagious pathogen

Diagnostic testing supports patient care and informs healthcare provider treatment decisions.

Rapid testing informs personal health decisions and public health disease control efforts.

Surveillance testing is essential for tracking the geographic spread of the pathogen.

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