Nevada State Public Health Laboratory

Safeguarding communities across Nevada

As the state’s public health laboratory, we deliver testing, monitoring and rapid response to keep all Nevadans safe and healthy.

Millions of tests, one mission: Protect Nevadans

During the pandemic, the NSPHL tested over 507,000 COVID samples and performed 2 million tests in a single year, averaging more than 7,700 tests per day, all to keep Nevadans safe and healthy.

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A legacy of public health leadership in Nevada

For more than a century, the Nevada State Public Health Laboratory has served as the state’s first line of defense against public health threats. Located on the University of Nevada, Reno campus, NSPHL combines science, service and education to protect the health and well-being of every Nevadan.

Protecting Nevada’s communities From investigating outbreaks to ensuring food and water safety, NSPHL works tirelessly to safeguard the people and visitors of Nevada through timely, high-quality testing and response.

Advancing science through education & innovation As part of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, the laboratory strengthens statewide public health by connecting academic expertise with real-world public health challenges: supporting both innovation and workforce development.

Building a stronger, healthier future for all Through collaboration across state agencies, universities and federal partners, NSPHL continues to expand its impact, tracking emerging diseases and shaping a healthier Nevada for generations to come.

Critical services you can rely on

NSPHL is the sole provider of essential public health services like newborn screening, chemical threat testing, tuberculosis support and rapid response to emerging pathogens. Close partnerships with federal agencies and local organizations ensure the state is prepared for any health challenge.

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Essential testing. Statewide impact.

The Nevada State Public Health Laboratory delivers critical testing and diagnostic services that protect the health of every Nevadan. From newborn screening to disease surveillance and emergency response, NSPHL serves as the backbone of Nevada’s public health system.

Protecting Nevada’s newest residents Every baby born in Nevada is tested by NSPHL for inherited disorders: twice within the first two weeks of life. These screenings help detect serious health conditions early, giving newborns the best chance at a healthy start.

Comprehensive testing and rapid response NSPHL provides essential testing for infectious diseases, unsafe water, and foodborne illness while serving as Nevada’s first line of defense in biological or chemical emergencies. The laboratory ensures timely, accurate results that protect communities statewide.

Partnering for public health Working closely with hospitals, health agencies and federal partners like the CDC and FDA, NSPHL leads statewide efforts to track emerging pathogens, deploy new testing methods, and strengthen Nevada’s preparedness against future health threats.

Leading discovery. Advancing public health.

NSPHL made history as the first in North America to confirm a case of COVID-19 reinfection – a groundbreaking discovery that reshaped how the world understands viral transmission and immunity. This achievement underscores our commitment to innovation, research, and protecting the health of every Nevadan.

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Coming soon: A new era for public health in Nevada

The new Nevada State Public Health Laboratory is being built to meet the growing demands of science and service: offering cutting-edge technology, expanded facilities and enhanced capabilities to protect the health of all Nevadans.

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Be on the frontline of public health innovation

Work at the center of Nevada’s response to emerging diseases and health threats. NSPHL is a national leader in pathogen testing, disease surveillance and bioinformatics research – where discovery meets real-world impact.

Collaborate with leading experts

As part of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, NSPHL connects you with academic researchers, healthcare leaders and federal partners like the CDC and FDA. It’s a place where science, education and public service intersect.

Make a difference every day

From newborn screenings that save lives to statewide testing that protects entire communities, your work here directly supports the health and well-being of all Nevadans.

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Meet Our Team