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Earlier this year, a total of $2.7 million was provided to 17 states and the two cities along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts that were part of last year's outbreak or were at higher risk this year based on bird migratory patterns. However, because of the unique nature of the introduction of the West Nile virus, national efforts are needed. The additional funding includes $3.1 million to enable other parts of the country to diagnose West Nile infection if needed and $1.4 million to further support the original 19 locations. The remaining funds will be used by CDC to support the state and local efforts.

"Effective prevention and control of the West Nile virus depends on a strong public health infrastructure at the national, state and local level including surveillance systems, laboratory diagnostic capability, and public information campaigns, " Secretary Shalala said. "While we have begun to rebuild epidemiologic and laboratory capacities for vector-borne diseases, it is clear that additional resources are needed."

This new funding will enable CDC to enhance the capacity of state and local health departments to detect West Nile virus activity, and expand CDC's capacity to meet increasing requests for technical assistance and training from state and local health departments. Funding also expands the capacity to perform reference laboratory work; and collect, analyze, and rapidly disseminate information and data.

The arrival of the West Nile virus in the northeastern United States demonstrates the ease with which emerging infectious diseases can travel into new geographic areas. The President's fiscal year 2001 budget proposes a total of $123 million for emerging infectious diseases, an increase of $25 million, or 25 percent above the fiscal year 2000 level. Of this increase, $20 million would support the development of a national electronic disease surveillance network, which will enhance the ability of state and local public health officials to respond to multi-state outbreaks of diseases and share information about emerging infectious diseases emergencies and trends.

The funding will be allocated based on needs from requesting states and localities. The 19 states and localities currently receiving funding that will share $1.4 million are: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York City, New York State, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia.

The other 31 states in the contiguous United States are eligible to receive the remaining $3.1 million depending on need.

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