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Considerations in receiving and quarantining laboratory rodents
Laboratory Animal Science
|April 1, 1980
Summary
Increased pathogen detection in research animals presents a quarantine dilemma due to high costs and new regulations. Laboratory animal medicine specialists must use professional judgment to balance animal quality with research needs, implementing quarantine only when truly appropriate.
Area of Science:
- Laboratory animal science
- Veterinary pathology
- Biomedical research
Background:
- Advanced bacteriologic and viral screening reveals pathogen exposure in research animals, even from reputable suppliers.
- The high financial and spatial costs of universal rodent quarantine pose a significant challenge for research institutions.
- Evolving regulations increasingly mandate quarantine periods for laboratory animals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the dilemma between increased pathogen detection and the costs/regulations associated with animal quarantine.
- To highlight the critical role of expert judgment in determining appropriate quarantine strategies.
- To propose a balanced approach for managing research animal health and research integrity.
Main Methods:
- Review of current practices in animal screening and quarantine.
- Analysis of the impact of regulations on research institutions.
- Emphasis on the application of professional judgment by laboratory animal medicine specialists.
Main Results:
- Enhanced screening identifies potential pathogens, creating a need for risk assessment.
- The cost-benefit analysis of universal quarantine is often unfavorable.
- Regulatory mandates for quarantine are increasing, irrespective of demonstrated need.
Conclusions:
- A pragmatic approach involves matching animal quality with specific research requirements.
- Quarantine should be implemented judiciously based on risk assessment and professional evaluation.
- Expert judgment is essential for navigating the complexities of research animal health management.