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Laboratory Response Network for Biological Threats (LRN-B)

As an LRN reference laboratory, IBL's LRN-B lab receives biological specimens from sentinel laboratories and environmental samples from agencies such as HazMat to confirm biological threats. The lab utilizes rapid molecular and conventional microbiological methods for confirmation of biological threat (BT) agents. 

Through the CDC Public Health Emergency Preparedness Cooperative Agreement, IBL's Laboratory Response Network for Biological Threats (LRN-B) lab trains a network of Idaho sentinel labs to recognize potential BT agents and to properly ship specimens.  Sentinel laboratories are typically clinical laboratories that analyze or refer specimens that may contain microbial agents or toxins.  

Submission forms for LRN-B tests can be found below. To send clinical samples, please notify a staff member in the Emergency Preparedness section. Environmental samples must be submitted to IBL by the FBI.

Submission Forms

Select Agent Information

Select agents are biological agents and toxins that have the potential to pose a severe threat to public health. The possession, use, and transfer or select agents is regulated by the National Select Agent Registry.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  National Select Agent Registry
National Select Agent Registry Website

All entities that possess, use, or transfer biological agents or toxins are required to be registered with the National Select Agent Registry. This website contains application packages, forms, current regulations, and additional resource information.   
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  HHS and USDA combined list of select agents and toxins
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  ASM Sentinel Level Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Guidelines
The American Society for Microbiology has developed the ASM Sentinel Level Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Guidelines to assist sentinel clinical laboratories with information and techniques to rule out microorganisms that might be suspected as agents of bioterrorism or to refer specimens to public health laboratories for confirmation.
Click here to expand contentClick here to collapse content  CDC Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response
The CDC Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Website provides information on specific bioterrorism agents, information for the public, and information for professionals.

Packaging and Shipping Requirements
and Trainings

Sentinel Laboratory Trainings

Other Resources

Contact Information

Emergency Preparedness Section Manager: 
     Michael Stevenson 

Phone:
     (208) 334-2235 x 269

E-mail: 
     stevensm@dhw.idaho.gov

Emergency Activation Through StateComm, 
1-800-632-8000

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