Take Action to Preserve CDC’s Viral Hepatitis Laboratory
As part of the recently announced reorganization of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the viral hepatitis laboratory housed in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Division of Viral Hepatitis (DVH) has been eliminated.
The viral hepatitis laboratory performed molecular sequencing and computational analysis to identify viral hepatitis outbreaks, describe their size and scope, and determine mechanisms of transmission at no cost to those submitting the samples. From 2020-2025, the CDC’s viral hepatitis laboratory provided services to state and local public health authorities for over 52 different viral hepatitis outbreak investigations across the country at no cost. At the time it was shut down, the laboratory was providing response support for a Hep C outbreak associated with a pain clinic in Florida.
The elimination of the laboratory is an illegal rescission of appropriated funds and will undermine the country’s public health. AASLD is pleased that Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA) is leading a Dear Colleague letter in the House recommending that HHS restore DVH’s capacity immediately. We need your help to get members of the House of Representatives to sign this Dear Colleague letter by May 16. Please use this template to contact your House member to request they sign the Dear Colleague letter.
Last Updated on May 6, 2025 by HepFree NYC
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