APHL provides leadership and scientific guidance for coordinated laboratory responses to public health crises. Our members – state, local and territorial governmental, laboratories - are at the forefront of detecting novel threats and responds to all hazard threats.
A successful public health response depends on well-prepared networks which utilize:
Current Crisis Management Activities
APHL has activated its Incident Command System to support member laboratories with the lung injury response associated with vaping. For more information, contact APHL through our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at
eoc@aphl.org.
APHL is working with member laboratories to support their individual responses and by providing the following resources:
Community of Practice
APHL has established a community of practice for state laboratories involved in the vaping illness outbreak response. This consists of two primary modes of communication:
A searchable electronic platform or discussion board, where members may post documents and events on the calendar. Such platforms have been used effectively in other topic areas and emergency incidents.
Weekly calls on Fridays at 3:00 pm ET with members of this community of practice. Calls are intended for analysts to share what they are doing to support this response, questions for their peers and best practices. Calls are restricted to APHL members and key public health partners.
Testing Guidance
APHL requested and received specimen collection and storage guidance from CDC. To request a copy of this document please email
eoc@aphl.org.
Crisis Management Resources
Forms and Information
APHL Continuity of Operations Guidelines