Giants on Clay Feet—COVID-19, infection control and public health laboratory networks in England, the USA and (West-)Germany (1945–2020)

In early 2020, COVID-19 exposed differences in public health laboratory systems’ testing abilities. Focusing on Germany, the USA and the UK between 1900 and 2020, this article argues that studying the distinct evolution of laboratory infrastructures is critical to understanding the history of infection control and the limits of template-based reforms in global health. While each analysed laboratory infrastructure was shaped by a unique national context, neoliberal visions of lean public services and declining resources led to significant reform pressure from the 1970s. The US Center of Disease Control’s model of epidemic intelligence provided an attractive template to integrate resources and focus planning on preparedness scenarios. It also helped justify cuts to local laboratory infrastructures. Effects were uneven: in the USA and the UK, improved integration failed to compensate for local laboratory cuts and loss of autonomy. By contrast, Germany’s subsidiary principle allowed for limited federal integration while leaving local services mostly intact.