In 1999, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) established the Laboratory Response Network (LRN). The LRN’s purpose is to run a network of laboratories that can respond to biological and chemical threats and other public health emergencies.

The LRN has grown since its inception, and now includes state and local public health, veterinary, military, and international labs. This linking of different laboratories was a novel approach to public health preparedness.