CDC restores PHEP funding for public health emergency response efforts

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently agreed to increase funding for the Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP) cooperative agreement by $44.25 million for public health emergency preparedness efforts in 2016 and 2017.

The funds were directed to 62 jurisdictions, which include U.S. cities, states and territories. Florida will receive $2.6 million in funding that can be used to fight the spread of the Zika virus.

The grant was allocated by Congress through a 2016 Zika supplemental funding bill, which restored PHEP funds previously redirected from states and other jurisdictions to support the CDC’s Zika virus response efforts.

Jurisdictions began receiving the funds this week, which can be used for any type of public health emergency.

“These CDC funds will enable states, cities, and territories to maintain and improve their routine preparedness and response efforts against a myriad of health threats,” Stephen Redd, director of the CDC’s Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, said. “We appreciate being able to make the PHEP-funded awardees whole again to continue their vital work preparing for and responding to natural disasters and disease outbreaks.”

Since 2002, the PHEP cooperative agreement has been the sole source of federal funding for public health emergency preparedness efforts. In total, more than $9 billion has been allocated for jurisdictions to upgrade their abilities to respond to public health threats.