Dr. Prabhavathi Fernandes, Ph.D. - Introduction to the National Biodefense Science Board

The following is a text alternative description for the National Biodefense Science Board (NBSB) video.​

Dr. Prabhavathi Fernandes, Ph.D., NBSB Chairperson, is shown in front of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) logo illuminated background. Dr. Needle begins to speak and the video continues this way the entire time.

Hello, I’m Dr. Prabhavathi Fernandes and I have the honor of the being the current chair of the National Biodefense Science Board or NBSB.

The NBSB provides advice directly to the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services on preventing, preparing for, and responding to adverse health effects of emergencies and disasters. The NBSB also provides expert guidance on current and future chemical, biological, nuclear, and radiological agents and the threats they may pose to our nation. With twelve colleagues from government agencies, academia, non-governmental organizations, and health care, and nearly twenty Ex-Officio Members from agencies across the Federal government, we proudly serve on this federal advisory committee to focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of our nation’s citizens in the wake of disasters. Preparedness for 21st century threats is vital to ensuring the safety and resilience of our communities. I urge you to learn more about how we all can protect the health and well-being of Americans from disasters. And, I hope you take few minutes to learn more about this federal advisory committee and the work we are doing.

We hold meetings open to the public. You can listen to many of our deliberations, and we encourage you to contribute your opinions and thoughts on issues we are discussing. Start learning more about the committee by visiting www.PHE.gov and search for NBSB. When it comes to protecting the health and our nation’s children, we should all be involved.

The video concludes with the Department of Health and Human Services logo and caption, “Produced at U.S. taxpayer expense” along with an audio voiceover announcing, “Produced at U.S. taxpayer expense at the Department of Health and Human Services”.