A 4,000-sq.-ft. biosecurity unit has been added to Iowa State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. The $3.2 million upgrade was dedicated June 10.
“Upgrades to the diagnostic laboratory will reduce the risk of cross-contamination or further dissemination of animal diseases,” says Gary Osweiler, DVM, lab director. “In addition, the laboratory will be better prepared to counter any introduction of foreign animal diseases in Iowa.”
The upgrade enables decontamination of vehicles that deliver animals, and collection and holding wastes for decontamination. The unit provides a secure necropsy and Biosecurity Level Three-capable lab where suspect diseases can be contained for identification.