United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases

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United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases

The United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) is a biomedical research facility located in Fort Detrick, Maryland. It is a subordinate laboratory of the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command.

History

USAMRIID was established in 1969 as a response to the biological warfare threat during the Cold War. Its primary mission is to conduct research on infectious diseases that could be used as biological weapons and to develop medical defenses against them.

Research Areas

USAMRIID conducts research on a wide range of infectious diseases, including Ebola virus, Anthrax, Plague, and Tularemia. The institute also studies emerging infectious diseases and collaborates with other research institutions and government agencies.

Facilities

The institute's facilities include high-containment laboratories equipped to handle dangerous pathogens safely. USAMRIID is one of the few facilities in the United States capable of conducting research on BSL-4 pathogens, the most dangerous infectious agents known.

Notable Achievements

USAMRIID has made significant contributions to the field of infectious disease research. It played a key role in the development of the Ebola vaccine and has been involved in the investigation of several high-profile disease outbreaks.

External Relations

USAMRIID collaborates with other government agencies, academic institutions, and international organizations to advance the field of infectious disease research. It also provides training and support to military personnel and civilian healthcare professionals.

See also

• Fort Detrick
• Biological warfare
• Biosafety level
• Ebola vaccine