Lasha Avaliani Meets with Representatives of the U.S. Embassy and FHI 360

Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture Lasha Avaliani met with representatives of the U.S. Embassy and the U.S.-based organisation FHI 360 to discuss activities planned under the ongoing “Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control” (EpiC) project.

The project focuses on the early detection and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza, strengthening veterinary and laboratory capacity, and improving capabilities for genomic research and genetic tracing.

“This project is important for the resilience and development of the poultry sector. It will strengthen the capacity of field and government veterinarians to detect and control highly pathogenic avian influenza at an early stage. It will also enhance laboratory capabilities, including genetic analysis and genomic tracing.

“Avian influenza is a zoonotic disease and can spread from animals to humans. Accordingly, the project will involve the relevant agencies and laboratories of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture and the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia. This cooperation will support early detection, investigation and tracing of the disease at the genomic level,” said Lasha Avaliani.

The project will provide training for veterinarians, farmers and other relevant specialists on the early detection of and response to highly pathogenic avian influenza.

These activities will help strengthen Georgia’s response to zoonotic diseases, support early disease detection and improve laboratory capacity.