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US policy for disease control among imported nonhuman primates
T A DeMarcus1, M A Tipple, S R Ostrowski
1Division of Quarantine, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia 30333, USA.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|February 13, 1999
Summary
Strict U.S. disease control measures for imported nonhuman primates, implemented after a 1990 Ebola virus Reston outbreak, proved effective. These measures successfully prevented further filovirus outbreaks in subsequent years.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Ebola virus (subtype Reston) infection occurred in imported cynomolgus monkeys in 1990.
- This prompted the U.S. to implement stringent disease control measures for nonhuman primates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of disease control measures implemented for imported nonhuman primates.
- To assess the impact of these measures on disease outbreaks and mortality rates.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of strict disease control measures including worker protection, containment, animal-to-animal spread prevention, and laboratory testing.
- Regular inspections of importer facilities for compliance.
- Monitoring of disease outbreaks and mortality rates in imported nonhuman primates.
Main Results:
- No filovirus outbreaks occurred between 1991 and 1995.
- A single outbreak caused by Mycobacterium species was noted during the same period.
- Ebola virus (subtype Reston) infection was identified in 1996, indicating continued vigilance was necessary.
- Current mortality rates are below 1.0% with excellent compliance.
Conclusions:
- The implemented disease control measures were effective in preventing widespread Ebola virus (Reston) outbreaks.
- The measures have successfully minimized disease risks associated with imported nonhuman primates.
- Ongoing surveillance and compliance are crucial for maintaining public and animal health.