State Laboratory's Full-Scale Exercise Involves Prattville's First Responders

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Sharon P. Massingale, Ph.D., (334) 290-6130

On Friday, March 4, 2022, the Alabama Department of Public Health Bureau of Clinical Laboratories will host a full-scale biosafety laboratory exercise which will include participation by several local first responders. The exercise will be held at The Donald E. Williamson State Laboratory located at 204 Legends Court in Prattville, Alabama. Citizens in the surrounding area should not be alarmed at the gathering of these first responders and laboratorians.

The State Laboratory is regulated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other federal agencies. In order to meet regulatory standards, preparedness plans designed to respond to certain emergencies must be routinely exercised to ensure accuracy.

The Donald E. Williamson State Laboratory receives nearly 1 million specimens per year and performs more than 1.5 million laboratory tests in support of county health departments around the state, as well as private citizens and private health care providers. The laboratory also screens for biological and chemical agents from suspicious scenes within the state.

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County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.

Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health

Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.