ISSUE NO: 001
UNIVERSITY MEDICAL SERVICES
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH
ALLERGY TO LABORATORY ANIMALS/INSECTS
Laboratory animal allergy (LAA) is an allergic hypersensitivity response which may develop as a
result of exposure to animal allergens. It is a well recognised and preventable occupational
disease. Approximately 20% of people who work with laboratory animals experience some allergic
symptoms due to contact with, or inhalation of animal allergens. About 10% of all those who work
with laboratory animals develop the serious symptoms of asthma. Those who develop its more
severe forms may need to seek a change of career; it also has the potential to lead to loss of
employment, and/or long-term ill-health. The main, but not the only sources of animal allergens are
urine, fur, hair, dander, saliva, droppings and serum. The majority of cases of allergic disease
among laboratory animal workers are caused by rats and mice, probably because these are the
animals most commonly used in experimental work. Other species such as guinea pigs, cats,
insects and shellfish can also cause respiratory and skin allergies in some individuals.
Levels of allergen may be high even in apparently clean and dust-free environments. Exposure
occurs by inhalation and by contact with skin (including bites and scratches) or mucous
membranes.
Who is at risk?
Everybody exposed to Laboratory Animals has the potential to develop an allergic response. This
includes animal technicians, researchers, teaching staff, maintenance staff and anyone else who
come into contact directly or indirectly with the animals.
Control Measures
Please refer to the risk assessment relating to your area of work for the appropriate control
measures to be used.
Action if Symptoms Develop
If you think you are becoming allergic (see below for list of symptoms) to the animals or insects
with which you work, it is necessary to report this to your Manager/Supervisor who will refer you to
the Occupational Health Service as soon as possible. An early assessment of the problem with
recommendations on how you can further reduce or avoid exposure can prevent allergic problems
from progressing.
What are the symptoms?
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Eyes: watering, redness, itching, swollen eyelids
Nose: runny nose, itching, bouts of sneezing
Skin: Itching, cracked skin; small blisters; nettle rash; (urticaria); a ‘weal & flare’ reaction
(swelling & inflammation), if scratched
Lungs: wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, coughing
IF YOU EXPERIENCE ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS REPORT THEM!