CDC is a preparedness and response agency, always alert for health threats. CDC’s Center for Preparedness and Response (CPR) ensures the United States can quickly respond to and effectively manage expected, unexpected, and unimaginable public health threats. Recognizing that our nation is always at risk, CPR fortifies our defenses against outbreaks, natural disasters, and chemical or bioterrorist attacks. We reduce illness and injury by empowering communities to prepare for, detect, and rapidly respond to any emergency. In a crisis, CPR’s experts stand ready to lead the response, connecting people with resources and leveraging CDC’s world class scientific expertise to protect our nation’s health and safety.