Former NCDC head raises alarm over potential US funding cuts to key health institutions

Amiran Gamkrelidze, the former head of Georgia’s National Center for Disease Control (NCDC), on Tuesday voiced concerns about the potential suspension of US funding for the NCDC and the Lugar Laboratory.

The possible cut in financial support has raised alarms about the future of the critical institutions, as the US has decided to suspend or freeze certain funding after Georgia’s adoption of controversial foreign influence law in May.

Speaking to the media, Gamkrelidze highlighted the strategic importance of the NCDC and its lead laboratory, the Lugar Laboratory, in ensuring Georgia’s biological security. He noted that the institutions were central to a unified system of laboratory supervision, developed with US assistance, which included 22 laboratories across the country. This system, he stressed, played a crucial role in maintaining the health of animals, people, and plants under the One Health approach.

“The Center for Disease Control is a strategic institution, and the Lugar Laboratory is its cornerstone. With American support, we have established a unified laboratory system in Georgia that encompasses 22 laboratories, 10 of which are under the NCDC and 12 under the Ministry of Agriculture. This system is vital for the country’s biological security,” Gamkrelidze explained.

Although the exact details of the US decision remain unclear, Gamkrelidze indicated that more information was expected later this week. He expressed hope that, given the health implications, the US might reconsider spreading the suspension.

“Whether the funding will be stopped, paused, or continued as is, I do not know. The exact decisions will probably be made public this week. However, since this concerns health, I still believe our main partners should not spread such a suspension,” Gamkrelidze said.