An agency’s ability to appropriately respond to morbidity and mortality events and disease outbreaks largely depends on the agency’s emergency disease outbreak preparedness, meaning how well they have planned and prepared for potential future disease outbreak scenarios. Often, disease outbreaks occur rapidly and with minimal to no forewarning. Disease outbreaks may involve endemic or emerging/novel pathogens, parasites, or toxicants and may occur in a variety of scenarios. Emergency disease outbreak preparedness is necessary to respond rapidly and appropriately to these events and can encompass many different elements that are tailored to each specific agency and region’s needs.
Foundational elements of emergency disease outbreak preparedness and response may include: planned coordination among all involved agencies/organizations, including established contracts with diagnostic laboratories; dedicated funding to enable swift and appropriate responses; predetermined agency response plans and protocols for field investigation of disease outbreaks and morbidity/mortality events; biosecurity protocols; and kits with all necessary field investigation supplies. Agencies may consider conducting regular table-top exercises with staff; developing an Incident Command and Management System; engaging in long-term planning regarding potential management decisions; developing internal and external communication plans; and evaluating specific needs for prolonged/future surveillance and/or monitoring, depending on the outcome.
Currently of concern are avian malaria (Plasmodium spp.), snake fungal disease detected in our Virgin Islands Tree Boas, chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium), and emergent viral pathogens. These may arrive via migratory birds, introduced species, or global trade. In anticipation, USVI DFW is developing surveillance protocols, captive sampling, and regional information exchange through Office of Insular Affairs grant awards. Prioritized actions include disease monitoring protocols in high biodiversity areas, early detection, and response planning. We are coordinating with the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, a regional initiative and consortium supported by the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.