Outbreak of tropical rat mite dermatitis in laboratory personnel

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Entomology
• Dermatology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• An outbreak of intense pruritic dermatitis occurred in research and animal technicians.
• The dermatitis was linked to exposure to laboratory mice infested with tropical rate mites (Ornithonyssus bacoti).
• Asymptomatic laboratory mice served as the reservoir for the mite infestation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the cause of an unexplained dermatitis outbreak among laboratory personnel.
• To identify the etiological agent responsible for the pruritic dermatitis.
• To emphasize the importance of host identification for mite eradication.

Main Methods:

• Clinical observation of affected technicians.
• Examination of laboratory mice for ectoparasites.
• Identification of the causative mite species.

Main Results:

• The outbreak was confirmed to be caused by tropical rate mites (Ornithonyssus bacoti).
• Affected individuals experienced intense pruritus following contact with infested mice.
• Laboratory mice were found to be asymptomatic carriers of the mites.

Conclusions:

• Tropical rate mite (Ornithonyssus bacoti) infestation in laboratory mice can cause significant dermatitis in human contacts.
• Prompt identification of the mite's host is crucial for effective control and prevention of human exposure.
• Implementing integrated pest management strategies targeting the mite reservoir is essential to prevent recurrence.