The CDC plays a crucial role in disease prevention. However, a troubling report from PETA claims that for years, the agency has been allowing monkeys infected with tuberculosis (TB) into U.S. labs.
Every year, thousands of monkeys are brought in from Southeast Asia and Mauritius—regions known for weak biosecurity. These animals endure long journeys in cramped crates, often arriving in poor health and distress.
Between 2021 and 2024, CDC records show 69 infected monkeys arrived in 17 shipments. Even more concerning, nearly 20% of these sick monkeys slipped through quarantine checks. Alarmingly, many of those missed came from shipments where other monkeys tested positive for TB. It raises serious questions about the CDC’s oversight.
There have already been TB outbreaks linked to these imports. In one case in Michigan, three monkeys developed the disease after being released from quarantine, exposing lab workers to the infection. TB isn’t just a risk for humans; it can endanger domestic animals and wildlife too. Additionally, using sick monkeys for research is flawed. Their compromised health makes it very likely that any experiments will fail.
Experts warn that the CDC must take immediate action to address this risk. Halting imports of monkeys for experimentation could help protect both public health and ethical standards in animal research.
According to a survey by the American Public Health Association, 74% of respondents believe that animal welfare should be prioritized in research. This sentiment reflects a growing awareness of ethical treatment in science.
The decision to stop importing infected animals isn’t just about immediate health risks; it’s about ensuring that science is both effective and humane. It’s time for the CDC to take responsibility and end this troubling practice.
For more information on this issue, you can explore PETA’s findings here.
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