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Multi-phase approach to eradicate enzootic mouse coronavirus infection
Debra L Hickman1, Kami J Thompson
1Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Research & Development Service, 3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road (R&D36), Portland, Oregon 97239, USA.
Contemporary Topics in Laboratory Animal Science
|October 6, 2004
Summary
Mouse coronavirus (mouse hepatitis virus, MHV) infections pose research challenges. A multi-phase eradication strategy involving culling, breeding cessation, testing, and cross-fostering successfully eliminated MHV from over 4000 mice.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Infectious Diseases
- Animal Research
Background:
- Mouse coronavirus (mouse hepatitis virus, MHV) infections are prevalent in research facilities.
- Chronic MHV infections can adversely affect research outcomes, particularly in immunocompromised and transgenic models.
- Previous eradication attempts in the facility had limited success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a successful multi-phase strategy for eradicating an enzootic mouse coronavirus (MHV) infection.
- To provide a model for other institutions facing similar challenges in mouse colonies.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive, multi-phase approach was implemented across multiple breeding colonies (>4000 mice, >50 strains).
- Key components included culling non-essential animals, halting breeding, rigorous testing and culling of infected individuals, and cross-fostering to MHV-negative dams.
- A dedicated task force ensured representation and oversight.
Main Results:
- The multi-phase eradication program successfully eliminated MHV from all targeted mouse strains, lines, and sublines.
- All manipulated animals have consistently tested negative for MHV post-eradication.
- The strategy proved effective in a large, complex mouse population.
Conclusions:
- A systematic, multi-phase eradication strategy can effectively eliminate enzootic mouse coronavirus (MHV) infections.
- This approach is valuable for maintaining MHV-free research animal populations.
- The described methodology offers a transferable solution for other research institutions.