(Reuters) – The Biden administration said on Thursday it had granted up to $510 million to boost domestic production of personal protective equipment such as isolation gowns to restock the Strategic National Stockpile in preparation for future public health emergencies. .
Why is it important
The US SNS, the country’s reserve of medical supplies for crisis situations, aims to provide life-saving equipment in emergency situations.
The investment is allocated to six companies that will produce isolation gowns manufactured in the United States
Contract recipients include: Airboss Defense Group, Essential Safety Products, Gredale, New York Embroidery Studio, StringKing Lacrosse and Two One Two New York.
Main quote
“These awards also ensure that we resupply SNS with domestically manufactured items when possible,” said Dawn O’Connell, Assistant Secretary of State for Preparedness and Response. “ASPR is committed to building a U.S.-based supply chain that is prepared for future public health emergencies.” .
Context
SNS has played a critical role during the coronavirus pandemic by distributing personal protective equipment such as N95 respirators, masks, face shields, gloves and isolation gowns to healthcare facilities across the country.