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Updated: Feb 23, 2026
Diagnosis of Ecto- and Endoparasites in Laboratory Rats and Mice
Published on: September 6, 2011
Results of Survey Regarding Prevalence of Adventitial Infections in Mice and Rats at Biomedical Research Facilities
James O Marx1, Diane J Gaertner1, Abigail L Smith2
1Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University Laboratory Animal Resources, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Abstract:
Control of rodent adventitial infections in biomedical research facilities is of extreme importance in assuring both animal welfare and high-quality research results. Sixty-three U.S. institutions participated in a survey reporting the methods used to detect and control these infections and the prevalence of outbreaks from 1 January 2014 through 31 December 2015. These results were then compared with the results of 2 similar surveys published in 1998 and 2008. The results of the current survey demonstrated that the rate of viral outbreaks in mouse colonies was decreasing, particularly in barrier facilities, whereas the prevalence of parasitic outbreaks has remained constant. These results will help our profession focus its efforts in the control of adventitial rodent disease outbreaks to the areas of the greatest needs.
Insights
Controlling rodent infections in research facilities is crucial. Viral outbreaks in mouse colonies are decreasing, but parasitic outbreaks remain constant, requiring focused control efforts.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Animal Welfare
- Biomedical Research
Background:
- Adventitial rodent infections pose significant challenges to animal welfare and research integrity in biomedical facilities.
- Effective control strategies are essential for maintaining high-quality research outcomes.
- Previous surveys in 1998 and 2008 established baseline data for rodent disease prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current methods for detecting and controlling adventitial rodent infections in U.S. research institutions.
- To determine the prevalence of rodent disease outbreaks between January 2014 and December 2015.
- To compare contemporary findings with historical data from 1998 and 2008 surveys.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to 63 U.S. institutions involved in biomedical research.
- Participants reported on their strategies for detecting and managing adventitial rodent infections.
- Data on the prevalence and types of disease outbreaks were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- A notable decrease in the rate of viral outbreaks within mouse colonies was observed, especially in barrier facilities.
- The prevalence of parasitic outbreaks in rodent populations remained consistent compared to previous survey periods.
- The findings indicate a shift in the primary challenges associated with adventitial rodent diseases.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights a positive trend in reducing viral infections, likely due to improved control measures in barrier facilities.
- Persistent parasitic outbreaks necessitate continued and potentially enhanced surveillance and control strategies.
- Future efforts in managing adventitial rodent diseases should prioritize areas of greatest need, focusing on parasitic infections.
