A critical resource for veterinarians, researchers, and public health officials, the CVMDL's reaccreditation means continued access to high-quality diagnostic services for the state of Connecticut
Jiyeon Hyeon, a former postdoctoral fellow, working at the Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory on April 7, 2021. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
The Connecticut Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (CVMDL), housed within the University of Connecticut's College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR), has once again earned accreditation from the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD). This recognition reaffirms the lab's commitment to upholding the highest standards in veterinary diagnostics and public health.
CVMDL, which is a located within CAHNR's Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, serves as a critical resource for veterinarians, researchers, and public health officials across Connecticut and the broader region. The laboratory provides timely and accurate diagnostic services that help detect and prevent the spread of infectious diseases, safeguard animal and public health, and support the state's agricultural industries.
Renewed accreditation from AAVLD is a significant achievement, demonstrating CVMDL's adherence to rigorous quality assurance and biosafety protocols. The reaccreditation process involves a comprehensive review of laboratory procedures, staff qualifications, biosafety measures, and overall operational effectiveness to ensure compliance with nationally recognized standards.
Guillermo Risatti, director of CVMDL and professor of pathobiology, emphasized the importance of this recognition.
"Achieving and maintaining AAVLD accreditation is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our laboratory personnel," says Risatti. "This accreditation ensures that we continue to provide reliable diagnostic services to veterinarians, animal owners, and the public while staying at the forefront of veterinary diagnostics."
As a full-service veterinary diagnostic facility, CVMDL plays a crucial role in detecting diseases in companion animals, livestock, and wildlife. The laboratory specializes in pathology, microbiology, virology, molecular diagnostics, and toxicology, offering an extensive range of diagnostic tests to support animal health professionals.
Beyond serving the veterinary community, CVMDL collaborates with state and federal agencies to monitor and respond to emerging infectious diseases, including zoonotic threats that could impact human health. The lab is also instrumental in the early detection of diseases such as avian influenza, Lyme disease, and other tick-borne illnesses, which are particularly relevant in Connecticut's ecosystem.
CAHNR Dean Indrajeet Chaubey highlighted the significance of this accreditation in the broader context of the university's research and outreach mission.
"CVMDL is an essential component of UConn's efforts to support public health, agriculture, and the veterinary community," says Chaubey. "This renewed accreditation affirms the lab's dedication to scientific excellence and service to the state and beyond."
The AAVLD accreditation process is rigorous, requiring veterinary diagnostic laboratories to demonstrate continuous improvement and compliance with best practices in diagnostic testing. Laboratories must undergo site visits, audits, and performance evaluations to ensure they meet the highest standards in diagnostic accuracy, quality control, and customer service.
The renewed accreditation not only underscores CVMDL's excellence but also strengthens its continued research and diagnostic advancements. Maintaining AAVLD accreditation enhances the laboratory's credibility and fosters collaboration with other accredited diagnostic laboratories, research institutions, and public health agencies.
For Connecticut's agricultural industry, pet owners, and wildlife conservation efforts, CVMDL's accreditation translates into continued access to high-quality diagnostic services that are vital for animal health and disease management. The lab's expertise in identifying emerging diseases also supports proactive measures to mitigate potential outbreaks, safeguarding both animal and human populations.
"Looking ahead, CVMDL remains committed to expanding its diagnostic capabilities and staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine," says Risatti. "With this renewed accreditation, the laboratory is well-positioned to continue its mission of delivering cutting-edge diagnostic services, supporting research, and protecting animal and public health across the region."
