House resolution seeks to create viral diseases institute

Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) introduced Wednesday a House Resolution seeking to establish a new National Institutes of Health unit known as The National Institute of Viral Diseases.

“I am introducing this resolution to build upon our federal government’s investment in scientific research and to consider expanding the scope of NIH’s excellent work,” Kaptur, senior member of the House Appropriations Committee, said. “Through my Appropriations Committee work across various subcommittees, I have become increasingly concerned that federal funding in the field of biomedical sciences, in particular, has lagged behind the clinical work of NIH and the physical sciences of NSF.”

Kaptur said research methodology requires a unique approach, noting as the nation continues to address the coronavirus pandemic, there is a need for more investment in biomedical research related to viral diseases. She maintains scientists predict the toll from viral diseases will increase in the future.

“Molecular biologists warned the world, for years, to be on guard against viruses,” Douglas C. Neckers, distinguished research professor of photochemical sciences at Bowling Green State University and academic advisor on the drafting of the resolution, said. “Yet America was not prepared for COVID-19. Lack of preparation cost far too many lives worldwide and cannot be repeated. The National Institute of Viral Diseases has one objective: to focus research and development programs on viruses and viral diseases so the nation and the world can anticipate, and be prepared for, the lethal viruses of the future.”