Clinical description of tetanus in squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Primate Research
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Tetanus, a serious bacterial disease, poses a risk to non-human primates, particularly those housed in environments with soil exposure.
• Understanding tetanus epidemiology in captive squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) is crucial for effective disease management and prevention.

Observation:

• Nineteen cases of clinical tetanus were observed in squirrel monkeys housed in outdoor corrals with soil floors.
• Clinical signs included gait stiffness, extensor rigidity, trismus (lockjaw), and opisthotonus (severe back arching).
• External wounds were present in 58% of affected monkeys, suggesting a potential route of infection.

Findings:

• The case fatality rate for tetanus in this cohort was 100%.
• Tetanus represented a significant cause of mortality, accounting for 12% of adult female and 19% of adult male deaths.
• Immunization with tetanus toxoid proved effective in reducing the incidence of tetanus within the colony.

Implications:

• Tetanus is a critical threat to squirrel monkey colonies, necessitating robust biosecurity and vaccination protocols.
• Environmental management, including minimizing soil exposure and prompt wound care, is vital for preventing tetanus.
• Tetanus toxoid vaccination is a recommended and effective strategy for protecting squirrel monkeys from this fatal disease.