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Operating and Biocontainment Procedures of a Facility for Laboratory Mice with a Natural Microbiome: Immunophenotyping Procedure

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Auditing laboratory rodent biosecurity programs.

William P Porter¹, Mandy J Horn, Dale M Cooper

¹Laboratory Animal Medicine, Research Models and Services, Harlan Laboratories, Indianapolis, IN.

|October 24, 2013

Summary

Implementing a robust rodent biosecurity program with regular audits is crucial for preventing microbial pathogen outbreaks in vivariums. This study introduces a novel auditing process to enhance laboratory animal health and safety.

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Area of Science:

Laboratory Animal Science
Veterinary Public Health
Biosecurity Management

Background:

Microbial pathogen outbreaks pose a significant threat to the health and integrity of research animals in vivarium settings.
Effective biosecurity programs are essential for maintaining a healthy animal population and ensuring reliable research outcomes.
Periodic evaluation of existing procedures is necessary to identify and mitigate potential biosecurity vulnerabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop and present a novel biosecurity auditing process and accompanying worksheet for use in animal care and use operations.
To provide a practical tool for institutions to systematically evaluate and improve their rodent biosecurity protocols.
To promote the adoption of comprehensive biosecurity reviews to safeguard laboratory animal health.

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Main Methods:

A comprehensive biosecurity review was conducted across North American and European production facilities.
A novel auditing process was developed based on the findings of the review.
A detailed worksheet was created to guide the auditing process for biosecurity procedures.

Main Results:

The developed biosecurity auditing process and worksheet offer a structured approach to evaluating current practices.
The methodology is designed to be adaptable and useful for various animal care and use operations.
The review highlighted the importance of continuous assessment in maintaining effective biosecurity.

Conclusions:

Periodic evaluation and auditing of vivarium procedures are vital for preventing microbial pathogen outbreaks.
The novel biosecurity auditing process and worksheet can serve as a valuable resource for other institutions.
Institutions are encouraged to implement similar audits to protect the health of their laboratory animals.