Arthropods (e.g., ticks, mosquitoes, flies, and mites) are important vectors of human and animal concern

More specifically, several endemic and exotic arthropods can cause diseases of livestock, poultry, and honey bees, threaten animal health and productivity, and potentially impact agricultural industries across the united states. Prompt detection and identification of arthropods is crucial for a rapid response, since vectors and vectorborne diseases are difficult, if not impossible, to eradicate once established. Veterinary personnel and producers are the first line of defense in detecting and diagnosing a foreign animal disease. The quicker they can recognize a threat and contact authorities for prompt and appropriate submission of specimens, the sooner a response can begin for implementing prevention and control efforts. Since identification of arthropods can be difficult, even when specimens are collected in good condition, animal health professionals should know how to recognize arthropods of concern, submit samples using proper storage and handling procedures, as well as locate appropriate laboratories (and their unique submission requirements) for arthropod identification and/or pathogen testing. This project will improve awareness and detection of arthropods and arthropod-borne diseases and provide resources for animal health professionals to better understand how to submit arthropod samples for accurate identification and disease diagnosis. Project activities include review of literature and resources and a national survey of animal health professionals to identify educational and training needs related to U.S. Veterinary arthropods of concern; assembly of an advisory group of subject matter experts; creation of novel educational materials to best fill gaps; development of a website that contains existing and new resources; and promotion of the new website and educational resources through professional networks. These materials will be hosted on the center for food security and public health (CFSPH) website, which is a highly trusted source of information for veterinarians, producers, and other animal health professionals with over 1.5 million page views annually. Providing information on arthropods of veterinary importance across the united states as a web-based resource library ( one stop shop ) will be especially critical in times of urgency, such as the incursion of an exotic arthropod.