Research and Development for Vector-Borne Disease Agent Surveillance

This is a Request for Information (RFI) for market research regarding the development of safe external proficiency testing procedures for the detection of pathogens in arthropods, specifically focusing on vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. The primary goal is to enhance the accuracy and reliability of diagnostic testing for U.S. military forces, particularly in deployed environments. The scope of work involves the research, development, validation, and documentation of these testing procedures using non-infectious agents to minimize risk. The contractor will be responsible for developing a written manual/protocol, validating this protocol, demonstrating its performance characteristics, and analyzing its capability for field-expedient use. The work will be performed at the contractor's facility, and the government will provide limited virus-free mosquito samples for confirmation testing. Interested parties are requested to submit a white paper addressing company information, business size, and capability details, including past performance on similar requirements. The submission deadline and contact information for questions and responses are available via the SAM.gov posting, with responses to be submitted via email to Benjamin.t.marcus2.civ@health.mil.