BITE Act

This bill, known as the "BITE Act," mandates the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish a comprehensive national system for vector-borne disease prevention . This system integrates multiple components to combat diseases transmitted by vectors like ticks, mosquitoes, and fleas. Key elements include a professional vector identification service accessible to both civilians and the Department of Defense, supporting a "One Health" approach by integrating human, animal, and environmental data. An artificial intelligence-enhanced early warning system will predict disease activity and deliver real-time risk alerts based on environmental factors. The system also incorporates insurance claims surveillance and syndromic surveillance of emergency room visits to detect outbreaks earlier than traditional methods. Furthermore, it requires comprehensive public education campaigns to deliver targeted prevention messaging. Finally, the bill aims for national strategic alignment , setting a target of a 25 percent reduction in Lyme disease by 2035. It also seeks to enhance military readiness through early detection and improved ecosystem health.