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Safety Precautions and Operating Procedures in an (A)BSL-4 Laboratory: 2. General Practices
Published on: October 3, 2016
Occupational risks during a monkeypox outbreak, Wisconsin, 2003
Donita R Croft1, Mark J Sotir, Carl J Williams
1Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services, Madison, Wisconsin, USA. dc2@medicine.wisc.edu
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|October 24, 2007
Summary
Occupational transmission of monkeypox virus during a 2003 Wisconsin outbreak was linked to direct animal care, especially with prairie dogs. Strict infection control and personal protective equipment are crucial for veterinary staff.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonotic Diseases
Background:
- The 2003 outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV) in Wisconsin involved prairie dogs, raising concerns about occupational transmission.
- Understanding transmission routes is vital for preventing future zoonotic disease outbreaks in animal care settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors associated with occupational MPXV transmission during the 2003 Wisconsin outbreak.
- To inform infection-control strategies for veterinary and animal handling professionals.
Main Methods:
- Active contact surveillance and exposure-related interviews were conducted.
- A cohort study of a veterinary facility experiencing MPXV cases was performed.
- Statistical analysis identified risk factors and protective measures.
Main Results:
- 19 confirmed, 5 probable, and 3 suspected MPXV cases were identified, primarily among veterinary staff, pet store employees, and animal distributors.
- Symptoms included rash, headache, sweats, and fever in over 80% of patients.
- Direct animal care, handling ill prairie dogs, proximity to sick animals, and feeding were significant risk factors for occupational transmission. Not handling ill prairie dogs was protective.
Conclusions:
- Occupational MPXV transmission is associated with direct contact with infected animals, particularly prairie dogs.
- Sporadic use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was noted among veterinary staff.
- Adherence to standard veterinary infection-control guidelines is essential to prevent zoonotic disease transmission.
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