So CBS News Health Correspondent Dr. Emily Senay visited a lab where the study of disease in animals may someday help to protect human beings. A short ferry ride through the fog off Long Island, N.Y., is the way to reach Plum Island, a place where the general public is not allowed. This is the site of the U.S. government's Animal Disease Research Center. Deadly foreign viruses that threaten American animals are studied in airtight chambers in an attempt to develop methods to prevent disease. Security and precautions are strict to prevent the escape of the viruses.
Animals can also be carriers for viruses.
The West Nile virus that caused the encephalitis outbreak in New York last summer is spread by mosquitoes that bite infected birds. Lab staff are currently studying the role of horses in transmitting the virus. The study of animal illnesses ultimately helps to prevent disease in humans. It enables doctors to recognize illness, control further infection and help develop vaccines. The center recently applied for a safety upgrade to level four, the highest level, so it would be able to study the newest and deadliest disease threats.