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A measles epizootic with 5 deaths in newly-imported rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)
Laboratory Animals
|January 1, 1976
Abstract:
Of 21 newly-imported rhesus monkeys, 11 showed a typical macular rash and 13 developed a 4-fold or greater rise in antibody titre to measles. 5 animals died, 4 of them with extensive pneumonia, pleurisy and pericarditis. Although measles was involved in each case, there were contributory causes of death, namely Diplococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus infection, and infestation with Oesophagostomum (nodular worm) larvae.
Insights
Newly imported rhesus monkeys experienced measles infection, with some developing severe pneumonia and other complications. Measles virus was a key factor in mortality, alongside secondary bacterial infections and parasitic larvae.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Primatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Newly imported non-human primates can serve as reservoirs for zoonotic diseases.
- Rhesus monkeys are common models in biomedical research and susceptible to various pathogens.
Observation:
- Out of 21 imported rhesus monkeys, 11 exhibited characteristic macular rashes.
- A significant proportion (13/21) showed a four-fold or greater increase in measles virus antibody titers.
Findings:
- Five monkeys died, with four succumbing to severe pneumonia, pleurisy, and pericarditis.
- Measles virus was implicated in all fatalities, with Diplococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, and Oesophagostomum larvae identified as contributing factors.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of measles transmission in susceptible primate populations.
- Underscores the importance of rigorous health screening for imported animals.
- Suggests potential for complex disease interactions in immunocompromised or stressed animals.