The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been instructed to phase out its monkey research program, a move that will end studies on approximately 200 macaques. The fate of the animals is uncertain, with some possibly being transferred to primate sanctuaries while others may be euthanized.
Critics argue that the CDC’s decision will hinder the development of life-saving treatments for diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. “It’s a huge loss for the HIV field,” says Deborah Fuller, director of the Washington National Primate Research Center. Without the monkey research program, scientists are concerned that research will be lost and investment wasted.
The shutdown is part of a broader trend among US research agencies to reduce their reliance on animal studies and invest in alternative methods. The White Coat Waste Project, an advocacy group, has been pushing for an end to government support for animal research. However, the move has raised concerns about the welfare of lab animals and the ability of researchers to continue important work.
The eventual fate of the monkeys is uncertain, with some being transferred to sanctuaries while others may be euthanized due to health risks. The CDC’s decision comes after a US House of Representatives budget bill zeroed out funding for the HIV division at the agency.
Source: https://www.science.org/content/article/exclusive-cdc-end-all-monkey-research