Form W: Animal Worker Questionnaire
This form is a required attachment to all new protocols for all personnel to be involved in the project. An updated
form must also be submitted any time an individual’s health status changes.
Name:
Date:
Job Title:
Department:
Work Telephone #:
Principal Investigator:
Animal Worker Signature
Date
Principal Investigator Signature Date
1. With which specific animal species will you be working?
2. Please describe, in your own words, the type and extent of animal contact that you will have:
3. Have you had a tetanus shot?
4. Do you have any allergies?
No
No
Yes – please provide date
Yes – please specify below.
5. Have you had, or do you currently have, any problems working around animals?
dates and the type of problems.
No
Yes - please list
6. List agents to be used in the proposed animal work:
Chemical (includes anesthetics):
Biological:
Radioactive/Radiation:
7. Which of sections of the Diseases of Concern to Laboratory and Field Workers Exposed to Animals information
on the following pages have you read?
General Information [Required for all species]
Rodents and Rabbits
Birds
Cattle, Sheep and Goats [should be read if working or conducting research on EKU farms]
Pigs [should be read if working or conducting research on EKU farms]
Fish, Amphibians and Reptiles
8. Other comments:
9. Are you under a physician’s care for any medical condition?
No
Yes – please have your physician
evaluate/assess any risk to you as a consequence of your participation in this activity and complete the following
evaluation section.
Evaluation of patient by physician:
Based on the description of the activity involving animals, which is being provided by my patient,
________________________________(patient’s name), and taking into account his/her physical and
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psychological health status, I, _______________________________ (physician’s name), as his/her health care
provider, certify him/her capable of safely engaging in the proposed activity, a)
with no precautions/
accommodations necessary OR b)
with the following precautions/ accommodations:
Physician’s Signature
Date
2
Diseases of Concern to Laboratory and Field Workers Exposed to Animals
GENERAL INFORMATION: TO BE READ BY ALL PERSONNEL
Tetanus: tetanus can be contacted via any animal bite or puncture wound of any type.
Tetanus (lockjaw) is an acute, often fatal disease caused by the toxin of the tetanus bacillus. The
bacterium usually enters the body in spore form, often through a puncture wound contaminated with soil, street
dust, or animal feces, or through lacerations, burns, and trivial or unnoticed wounds. The Public Health Service
Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends immunization against tetanus every 10 years. An
immunization is also recommended if a particularly tetanus-prone injury occurs in an employee where more than
five years has elapsed since the last immunization. Every lab and field worker exposed to animals is
required to have up-to-date tetanus immunizations or formally signed waiver. If you need a tetanus
immunization or have questions regarding this issue, please contact your primary care physician. Appropriate
personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should be employed to help
prevent the contraction or spread of tetanus.
Rabies: Rabies is included here because of the devastating nature of the disease and because EKU
has a large population of researchers working in the field. (Refer also to the EKU Animal Bite SOP).
Rabies is a devastating viral disease which results in severe neurological problems and death. Rabies virus
infects all mammals, but the main reservoirs are wild and domestic canines, cats, skunks, raccoons, bats, and other
biting animals, as well as groundhogs. The disease is virtually unheard of in commonly-used laboratory animals.
However, the possibility of rabies transmission to dogs or cats with uncertain vaccination histories, and originating
from an uncontrolled environment must be considered.
Rabies virus is most commonly transmitted by the bite of a rabid animal, or by the
introduction of virus-laden saliva into a fresh skin wound or an intact mucous membrane. Airborne
transmission can occur in caves where bats roost. Personnel who handle tissue specimens or other
materials potentially laden with rabies virus during necropsy or other procedures should be regarded
as “at-risk” for infection.
Rabies produces an almost invariably fatal encephalomyelitis. Patients experience a period of
apprehension and develop headache, malaise, fever, and sensory changes at the site of any a priori animal-bite
wound. The disease progresses to paresis or paralysis, inability to swallow and the related hydrophobia, delirium,
convulsions, and coma. Death is often due to respiratory paralysis.
Rabies is an endemic disease in Kentucky, especially in skunks and bats. Sporadic cases have
been well-documented in other species of wildlife, as well as domestic animals. Animals and animal tissues fieldcollected in Kentucky for research or teaching should be handled with care. Precautions should take into
account the facts that infected animals may shed the virus in the saliva before visible signs of illness
appear, and that rabies virus can remain viable in frozen tissues for an extended period. Pre-exposure
vaccine (human diploid cell vaccine) is available for those people at high risk of exposure. Researchers should
consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of rabies infection.
Personnel should rely on the use of protective clothing (especially the wearing of gloves when
handling live or dead mammals), personal hygiene, and sanitation measures to prevent transmission
of the disease.
Aspergillosis
Aspergillus is a common fungus that can be found in indoor and outdoor environments. Most people breathe in
Aspergillus spores every day without being affected. Aspergillosis is a disease caused by this fungus and usually
occurs in people with lung diseases or weakened immune systems. The spectrum of illness includes allergic
reactions, lung infections, and infections in other organs. Aspergilla organisms can be found in any field or
farm setting where large amounts of dust are raised by movement of birds, animals or people .
Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of
aspergillosis infection. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, filter masks,
disposable gloves) should be employed to help prevent the contraction of aspergillosis.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through
the bite of infected ticks. Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash
3
called erythema migrans. If left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system. Lyme
disease is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical findings (e.g., rash), and the possibility of exposure to infected
ticks; laboratory testing is helpful if used correctly and performed with validated methods. Most cases of Lyme
disease can be treated successfully with a few weeks of antibiotics. Field researchers should consult the
current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of lyme disease infection. Steps to
prevent Lyme disease include using insect repellent (see CDC recommendations for appropriate repellents) and
removing ticks promptly. The ticks that transmit Lyme disease can occasionally transmit other tickborne diseases as
well.
Potential Risks for Women Who are Pregnant or May Become Pregnant:
Women of child-bearing age should be aware of the potential risks to themselves and their unborn
fetus that may be present working in the laboratory or farm environment. Zoonotic diseases
associated with laboratory animals such as “Q” fever, Toxoplasmosis, and/or Lymphocytic
Choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) are a concern as are some hazardous chemicals and compounds.
Should you be pregnant or plan to become pregnant, it is strongly advised that you inform your
supervisor and seek advice from your obstetrician or physician. This should be done as soon as you
become aware of the change in your status.
Toxoplasmosis:
Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by an organism called Toxoplasma gondii. Wild and domestic cats
are the only definitive hosts of this organism. Usually this disease is quite mild and may be mistaken for a
simple cold or viral infection. Swollen lymph nodes are common. In addition, it is common to have a mild fever,
general washed-out feeling, and mild headaches. Rarely, more serious illness can occur, with involvement of the
lungs, heart, brain or liver. Toxoplasmosis can have severe consequences in pregnant women and immunologically
impaired people. Pregnant women should avoid contact with cat feces, soil, or uncooked meat. Cat litter and
cat feces should be disposed of promptly before sporocysts become infectious, and gloves should be
worn in the handling of potentially infective material. Researchers should consult the current Centers
for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of toxoplasmosis infection. Appropriate personalhygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should be employed to help prevent
the contraction or spread of infection.
4
Diseases carried by Rodents and Rabbits:
The vast majority of mice, rats and rabbits used in research are bred in controlled environments under exacting
microbiologic controls with frequent monitoring. These animals are generally free of any diseases transmissible to
man. Wild caught rodents and rodents from facilities lacking standard practices may present a wide variety of
zoonotic diseases including:
VIRAL DISEASES
Hantavirus Infection (Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome; Nephropathia endemica)
The Hantaviruses, which can cause severe hemorrhagic disease, are widely distributed in nature among
rodent reservoirs. Rodents in several genera have been implicated in outbreaks of Hantavirus in the U.S. The
transmission of Hantavirus infection is through the inhalation of infectious aerosols. Extremely brief
exposure times (five minutes) have resulted in human infection. Rodents develop persistent, asymptomatic
infections, and shed the virus in their respiratory secretions, saliva, urine, and feces for many months.
Transmission of the infection can also occur by animal bite, or when dried materials contaminated
with rodent excreta are disturbed, allowing wound contamination, conjunctiva exposure or ingestion
to occur. Cases that have occurred in the laboratory animal environment have involved infected laboratory rats.
Person-to-person transmission apparently is not a feature of Hantavirus infection.
The form of the disease known as Nephropathia endemica is characterized by fever, back pain, and
nephritis that cause only moderate renal dysfunction. The infection is usually self-limiting with proper treatment.
The form of the disease that has been noted after laboratory animal exposure fits the classical pattern of
hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The infection is characterized by fever, headache, myalgia, gastrointestinal
bleeding, bloody urine, severe electrolyte abnormalities, and shock.
Human Hantavirus infections associated with the care and use of laboratory animals can be
prevented through the isolation or elimination of infected rodents and rodent tissues before they can
be introduced into the resident laboratory animal populations. Field researchers should consult the
current Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for prevention hantavirus infection AND their
professional literature for research guidelines related to hantavirus protection. Appropriate personalhygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should be employed to help prevent
the contraction or spread of infection.
Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus Infection
Human infection with Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCM) associated with laboratory animal and/or pet
contact has been recorded on several occasions. LCM is widely distributed among wild mice throughout most of
the world, and presents a zoonotic hazard. Many laboratory animal species are infected naturally, including mice,
hamsters, guinea pigs, nonhuman primates, swine and dogs. But the mouse has remained the primary
concern in the consideration of this disease. Athymic, severe-combined-immunodeficiency (SCID), and other
immunodeficient mice can pose a special risk by harboring silent, chronic infections, which present a hazard to
personnel.
The LCM virus produces a pantropic infection under some circumstances, and can be present in blood,
cerebrospinal fluid, urine, nasopharyngeal secretions, feces, and tissues of infected natural hosts. Bedding material
and other fomites contaminated by LCM-infected animals are potential sources of infection, as are infected
ectoparasites. Lab workers can be infected by inhalation and contamination of mucous membranes or
broken skin with infectious tissues or fluids from infected animals. Aerosol transmission is well
documented.
Humans develop an influenza-like illness characterized by fever, myalgia, headache, and malaise after an
incubation period of 1-3 weeks. In severe cases of the disease, patients might develop meningoencephalitis.
Central nervous system involvement has resulted in several deaths. Researchers should consult the current
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for the prevention of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus
infection. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should
be employed to help prevent the contraction or spread of infection.
BACTERIAL DISEASES
Campylobacteriosis
Organisms of the genus Campylobacter have been recognized as a leading cause of diarrhea in humans
and animals. Numerous cases involving the zoonotic transmission of the organisms in pet and laboratory animals
5
have been documented. Results of prevalence studies on dogs, cats, nonhuman primates, and group-housed
animals suggest that young animals readily acquire the infection and shed the organism. Campylobacter is
transmitted by the fecal-oral route via contaminated food or water, or by direct contact with infected
animals.
Campylobacter spp. produces an acute gastrointestinal illness, which, in most cases, is brief and selflimiting. The clinical signs of Campylobacter enteritis include watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and
vomiting. The infection generally resolves with specific antimicrobial therapy. Researchers should consult the
current Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for the prevention of campylobacteriosis
infection. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should
be employed to help prevent the contraction or spread of infection. Animal Biosafety Level 2 is
recommended for activities using naturally or experimentally infected animals [Animal Biosafety
Level 2 is assigned for animal work with those agents associated with human disease that pose
moderate hazards to personnel and the environment].
Enteric Yersiniosis
Yersinia enterocolitica and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis are present in a wide variety of wild and domestic animals,
which are considered the natural reservoirs for the organisms. The host species for Yersinia enterocolitica include
rodents, rabbits, swine, sheep, cattle, horses, dogs, and cats. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis has a similar host
spectrum and also includes various avian species. Human infections often have been associated with household
pets, particularly sick puppies and kittens. Occasional reports of Yersinia infections in animals housed in the
laboratory, such as guinea pigs, rabbits, and nonhuman primates, suggest that zoonotic
Yersinia infection should not be overlooked in this environment. Yersinia spp. is transmitted by direct
contact with infected animals through the fecal-oral route.
Yersinia enterocolitica produces fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, lesions may develop
in the lower small intestine, resulting in a clinical presentation that mimics acute appendicitis. Researchers
should consult the current Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for the prevention of enteric
yersinia infection. Personnel should rely on the use of protective clothing, personal hygiene, and
sanitation measures to prevent the transmission of the disease.
Leptospirosis
This is a contagious bacterial disease of animals and humans due to infection with Leptospira interrogans
species. Rats, mice, field moles, hedgehogs, squirrels, gerbils, hamsters, rabbits, dogs, domestic livestock, other
mammals, amphibians, and reptiles are among the animals that are considered reservoir hosts. Leptospires are
shed in the urine of reservoir animals, which often remain asymptomatic and carry the organism in their renal
tubules for years. The usual mode of transmission occurs through abraded skin or mucous membranes
and is often related to direct contact with urine or tissues of infected animals. Inhalation of
infectious droplet aerosols and ingestion of urine-contaminated food or water are also effective
modes of transmissions. Clinical symptoms may be severe, mild or absent, and may cause a wide variety of
symptoms including fever, myalgia, headache, chills, icterus and conjunctiva suffusion. The disease can usually be
treated successfully with antibiotics. Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) guidelines for the prevention of leptospirosis infection. Personnel should rely on the use of
protective clothing, personal hygiene, and sanitation measures to prevent transmission of the
disease.
Plague
Plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, has not been identified as an important disease entity in the laboratory
animal setting. However, focal outbreaks of this once devastating disease continue to be recognized worldwide,
including the United States, where the disease exists in wild rodents in the western one-third of the country. In
the United States, most human cases are related to wild rodents, but cats, dogs, coyotes, rabbits, and goats have
also been associated with human infection. Most cases are the result of bites by infected fleas or contact
with infected rodents. In human plague associated with nonrodent species, infection has resulted from bites or
scratches, handling of infected animals (especially cats with pneumonic disease), ingestion of infected tissues, and
contact with infected tissues. Nonrodent species can serve as transporters of fleas from infected rodents
into the laboratory.
Human plague has a localized (bubonic) form and a septicemic form. In bubonic plague, patients have
fever and large, swollen, inflamed, and tender lymph nodes, which can suppurate. The bubonic form can progress
6
to septicemic plague, with spread of the organism to diverse parts of the body, including lungs and meninges. The
development of secondary pneumonic plague is of special importance because aerosol droplets can serve as a
source of primary pneumonic or pharyngeal plague, creating a potential for epidemic disease.
Preventive measures in a laboratory animal facility should encompass the control of wild rodents and the
quarantine, examination, and ectoparasite treatment of incoming animals with potential infection. Vaccines are
available for personnel in high-risk categories, but confer only brief immunity. Animal Biosafety Level 2
practices, as well as containment equipment and facilities, are recommended for personnel working
with naturally or experimentally infected animals. Researchers should consult the current Centers for
Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of plague. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices
(e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should be employed to help prevent the contraction or
spread of infection.
Rat-Bite Fever
Rat-bite fever is caused by either Streptobacillus moniliformis or Spirillum minor, two microorganisms that
are present in the upper respiratory tracts and oral cavities of asymptomatic rodents, especially rats. These
organisms are present worldwide in rodent populations, although efforts by commercial suppliers of laboratory
rodents to eliminate Streptobacillus moniliformis from their rodent colonies now appear to have been largely
successful. Most human cases result from a bite wound inoculated with nasopharyngeal secretions,
but sporadic cases have occurred without a history of rat bite. Infection also has been transmitted via blood of an
experimental animal. Persons working or living in rat infested areas have become infected even without direct
contact with rats. In Streptobacillus moniliformis infections, patients develop chills, fever, malaise, headache, and
muscle pain. A rash, most evident on the extremities, follows. Arthritis occurs in 50% of Streptobacillus
moniliformis cases, but is considered rare in Spirillum minor infections. Complications of untreated cases of the
disease include abscesses, endocarditis, pneumonia, and hepatitis. Researchers should consult the current
Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of rat-bite fever. Proper animal handling
techniques are critical to the prevention of rat-bite fever. Personnel should rely on the use of
protective clothing, personal hygiene, and sanitation measures to prevent transmission of the
disease.
Salmonellosis
Enteric infection with Salmonella spp. has a worldwide distribution among humans and animals. Despite
the efforts to eliminate the organism in laboratory animal populations, carriers continue to occur, as a result of
infection by contaminated food, or other environmental sources of contamination. These carriers represent a
source of infection for other animals and for personnel who work with animals.
Surveys in dogs and cats have indicated that the prevalence of salmonellosis infection remains
approximately 10% among random-source animals. Salmonella spp. continue to be recorded frequently among
recently imported nonhuman primates. Infection with Salmonella spp. is nearly ubiquitous among reptiles. Avian
sources are often implicated in food borne cases of human Salmonellosis. Birds in a laboratory animal facility
should be considered likely sources for zoonotic transmission. The organism is transmitted by the
fecal-oral route, via food derived from infected animals, or from food contaminated during
preparation, contaminated water, or direct contact with infected animals . Salmonella spp. infection
produces an acute, febrile enterocolitis. Septicemia and focal infections occur as secondary complications. Focal
infections can be localized in any tissue of the body, so the disease has diverse manifestations. Researchers
should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of salmonellosis.
Personnel should rely on the use of protective clothing, personal hygiene, and sanitation measures to
prevent the transmission of salmonellosis. Animal Biosafety Level 2 is recommended for activities
using naturally or experimentally infected animals.
FUNGAL DISEASES
Dermatomycosis (Ringworm)
Many species of animals are susceptible to fungi (dermatophyte) that cause the condition known as
ringworm. Dogs, cats, and domestic livestock are the most commonly affected animals. The skin lesion usually
spreads in a circular manner from the original point of infection, giving rise to the term “ringworm.” The
complicating factor is that cats and rabbits may be asymptomatic carriers of the pathogens that can cause the
condition in humans. Dermatophyte spores can become widely disseminated and persistent in the
7
environment, contaminating bedding, equipment, dust, surfaces, and air, resulting in the infection of
personnel who have no direct animal contact.
In humans, the disease usually consists of small, scaly, semi-bald, grayish skin patches with broken,
lusterless hairs, with itching. Lesions often are on the hands, arms or other exposed areas, but invasive and
systemic infections have been reported in immunocompromised people. Researchers should consult the
current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of ringworm infection. Appropriate
personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should be employed to help
prevent the contraction or spread of infection.
PROTOZOAN DISEASES
Cryptosporidiosis
Cryptosporidium spp. have a cosmopolitan distribution and have been found in many animal species,
including mammals, birds, reptiles, and fishes. Among the laboratory animals, lambs, calves, pigs, rabbits, guinea
pigs, mice, dogs, cats, and nonhuman primates can be infected with the organisms. Cryptosporidiosis is common
in young animals, particularly ruminants and piglets.
Cryptosporidiosis is transmitted by the fecal-oral route and can involve contaminated water,
food, and possibly air. Many human cases involve human-to-human transmission or possibly the reactivation of
subclinical infections. Several outbreaks of the disease have been associated with surface water contaminants.
Zoonotic transmission of the disease to animal handlers has been recorded, including among handlers of infected
infant nonhuman primates.
Although cryptosporidiosis has become identified widely with immunosuppressed people, the ability of the
organism to infect immunocompetent people also has been recognized. In humans, the disease is characterized by
cramping, abdominal pain, profuse watery diarrhea, anorexia, weight loss, and malaise. Symptoms can wax and
wane for up to 30 days, with eventual resolution. However, in immunocompromised persons, the disease can have
a prolonged course that contributes to death. Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease
Control guidelines for the prevention of cryptosporidiosis infection. Appropriate personal-hygiene
practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should be employed to help prevent the
contraction or spread of infection.
Giardiasis
Many wild and laboratory animals serve as a reservoir for Giardia spp., although cysts from human sources
are regarded as more infectious for humans than are those from animal sources. Dogs, cats, and nonhuman
primates are most likely to be involved in zoonotic transmission. Drinking untreated water can be a source of
Giardia spp. organisms.
Giardiasis is transmitted by the fecal-oral route chiefly via cysts from an infected person or
animal. The organism resides in the upper gastrointestinal tract where trophozoites feed and develop into
infective cysts. Humans and animals have similar patterns of infection. Infection can be asymptomatic, but
anorexia, nausea, abdominal cramps, bloating, and chronic, intermittent diarrhea are often seen. Researchers
should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of giardiasis
infection. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves) should
be employed to help prevent the contraction or spread of infection.
Additional sources to consult:
www.cdc.gov Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website.
National Institutes of Health (NIH). August 2002. Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of
Laboratory Animals. NIH, Office for Protection from Research Risks, Washington, DC.
National Research Council (NRC, the “Guide”). 2011. Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals. NRC,
Institute of Laboratory Animal Resources, Commission on Life Sciences, National Academies Press, Washington,
DC.
National Research Council (NRC). 1997. Occupational Health and Safety in the Care and Use of Research Animals.
NRC, Institute of Animal Laboratory Resources, Commission on Life Sciences, National Academies Press,
Washington, DC.
8
Diseases carried by Cattle, Sheep and Goats
Rabies
Refer to page one of this document.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis of animals and humans is caused by acid-fast bacilli of the genus Mycobacterium. Cattle,
birds, and humans serve as the main reservoirs for these mycobacteria . Many laboratory animal species,
to include nonhuman primates, swine, sheep, goats, rabbits, cats, dogs, and ferrets, are susceptible to infection,
and contribute to the spread of the disease. Animals confirmed positive will normally be euthanatized.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis is transmitted via aerosols from infected animals or tissues. This
mode of transmission also applies to most of the other mycobacterial species that might be encountered in
laboratory animal contact. Humans can contract the disease in the laboratory through exposure of
infectious aerosols generated by the handling of dirty bedding, the use of high-pressure water
sanitizers, or the coughing of animals with respiratory involvement. The bacteria may also be shed in
droppings, or from skin exudates resulting from infected, ruptured lymph nodes.
The most common form of tuberculosis reflects the involvement of the pulmonary system and is
characterized by soft coughing, which progresses to the coughing of blood or blood-stained sputum. Other forms
of the disease can involve any tissue or organ system, due to the spread via the blood stream. General symptoms
as the disease progresses include weight loss, fatigue, lassitude, fever, and chills. The diagnosis of tuberculosis in
humans and animals relies primarily on the use of the intradermal tuberculin skin test. Researchers should
consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of tuberculosis
infection. Personnel should rely on the use of protective clothing (face shields or masks, goggles, and
gloves), personal hygiene, and sanitation measures to prevent transmission of the disease.
Brucellosis
Brucellosis, also called Bang's disease, undulant fever, is a highly contagious zoonosis caused
by ingestion of unpasteurized milk or undercooked meat from infected animals or close contact with
their secretions. Brucella spp. organisms function as facultative intracellular parasites, causing chronic disease,
which usually persists for life. Brucellosis has been recognized in animals, including humans, since the 20th
century. The symptoms are like those associated with many other febrile diseases, but with emphasis on muscular
pain and profuse sweating. The duration of the disease can vary from a few weeks to many months or even years.
In the first stage of the disease, septicemia occurs and leads to the classic triad of undulant fevers, sweating (often
with characteristic smell, likened to wet hay), and migratory arthralgia and myalgia (joint and muscle pain).
Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of
brucellosis. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves)
should be employed to help prevent the contraction or spread of infection.
Coxiella burnetti (Q Fever)
Q fever is a worldwide disease with acute and chronic stages caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii.
Cattle, sheep, and goats are the primary sources of infection. Organisms are excreted in milk, urine, and feces of
infected animals. During birthing the organisms are shed in high numbers within the amniotic fluids and the
placenta. The organism is extremely hardy and resistant to heat, drying, and many common disinfectants which
enable the bacteria to survive for long periods in the environment. Infection of humans usually occurs by
inhalation of these organisms from air that contains airborne barnyard dust contaminated by dried
placental material, birth fluids, and excreta of infected animals. Other modes of transmission to humans,
including tick bites, ingestion of unpasteurized milk or dairy products, and human to human transmission, are rare.
Humans are often very susceptible to the disease, and very few organisms may be required to cause infection.
Symptoms begin 2-3 weeks after infection. Symptoms include high fevers (104oF), headache, malaise, myalgia,
abdominal and chest pain, chills and/or sweats, vomiting and/or diarrhea. Pregnant women who become infected
may miscarry. This is a difficult disease to diagnose and treat. Researchers should consult the current
Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of Q Fever. Personnel should rely on the use
of protective clothing (face shields or masks, goggles, and gloves), personal hygiene, and sanitation
measures to prevent transmission of the disease.
Orf virus infection (Sore mouth)
9
“Sore mouth,” also known as “scabby mouth,” or contagious ecthyma, is a viral infection caused by a
member of the poxvirus group and is an infection primarily of sheep and goats. Orf virus infection is found around
the world. It is spread by fomites such as trucks, harnesses and buckets. Early in the infection sores appear as
blisters and then become crusty scabs, typically found on the lips, muzzle, and in the mouth. Lesions eventually
become ‘scabby’ and fall off. The scabs are loaded with virus which can last for long periods in the environment.
A person who comes into contact with virus from an infected animal or equipment (such as a
harness) can potentially get infected. People often develop sores on their hands. The sores may be
painful and can last for 2 months. People do not infect other people. Sores usually heal without scarring.
Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of
Orf virus infection. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable
gloves) should be employed to help prevent the contraction or spread of infection.
Leptospirosis
Refer back to Rodents and
Salmonellosis
Refer back to Rodents and
Campylobacteriosis
Refer back to Rodents and
Dermatomycosis (Ringworm)
Refer back to Rodents and
Rabbits section.
Rabbits section.
Rabbits section.
Rabbits section.
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Diseases carried by Pigs:
Swine Influenza virus
Swine influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that regularly
cause outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Influenza viruses that commonly circulate in swine are called “swine influenza
viruses” or “swine flu viruses.” Like human influenza viruses, there are different subtypes and strains of swine
influenza viruses. The main swine influenza viruses circulating in U.S. pigs in recent years are: swine triple
reassortant (tr) H1N1 influenza virus, trH3N2 virus and trH1N2 virus. Swine flu viruses do not normally infect
humans. However, sporadic human infections with swine influenza viruses have occurred. When this happens,
these viruses are called “variant viruses.” Common signs in sick pigs include fever, depression, coughing (barking),
discharge from the nose or eyes, sneezing, breathing difficulties, eye redness or inflammation, and going off feed.
Signs of swine flu in people are similar to a human flu virus infection and include fever, lethargy, lack
of appetite and coughing. Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control
guidelines for the prevention of swine flu infection. Personnel should rely on the use of protective
clothing (face shields or masks, goggles, and gloves), personal hygiene, and sanitation measures to
prevent transmission of the disease.
Streptococcus suis
Streptococcus suis causes a host of problems in pigs: meningitis, arthritis, heart valve infections,
polyserositis, pneumonia, vaginitis and abortions. The bacteria can reside in the tonsil and/or genital tract of pigs;
35 types of Streptococcus suis have been identified. The most common clinical signs are meningitis (nervous
signs) and arthritis (joint swellings) in nursery pigs. Strep infections are a common problem in today's production
units, even in some of the “high health” herds. Humans can be infected with S. suis when they handle
infected pig carcasses or meat, especially with exposed cuts and abrasions on their hands. Human
infection can be severe, with meningitis, septicaemia, endocarditis, and deafness as possible outcomes of infection.
Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of
Streptococcus suis infection. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing,
disposable gloves) should be employed to help prevent the contraction or spread of infection.
Toxoplasma gondi (undercooked pork, very bad for fetus of pregnant woman)
Toxoplasma gondi does not cause disease in swine. Humans will rarely be infected with T. gondi from
exposure to pigs. Infection will primarily be from eating undercooked pork, or managing to get the
organism from raw pork to one’s mouth. Pork should be cooked to 145oF and rested before carving. Humans
infected with T. gondi may exhibit ‘flu like symptoms’. Human fetuses and humans with compromised immune
systems are very susceptible to T. gondi infections. Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective
clothing, disposable gloves) should be employed as safety precautions.
Yersinia coli
Refer back to Rodent and Rabbit section.
Campylobacteriosis
Refer back to Rodents and Rabbits section.
Salmonellosis
Refer back to Rodents and Rabbits section.
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Diseases carried by Birds:
Histoplasmosis
Histoplasmosis is a disease caused by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. The fungus lives in the environment,
usually in association with large amounts of bird or bat droppings. Lung infection can occur after a person
inhales airborne, microscopic fungal spores from the environment; however, many people who inhale the
spores do not get sick. The symptoms of histoplasmosis are similar to pneumonia, and the infection can sometimes
become serious if it is not treated. People with a compromised immune system will likely have more severe or
disseminated disease. Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for
the prevention of histoplasmosis infection. Personnel should rely on the use of protective clothing
(face shields or masks, goggles, and gloves), personal hygiene, and sanitation measures to prevent
transmission of the disease.
Cryptococcosus
Cryptococcosis is an infection caused by fungi that belong to the genus Cryptococcus. Two species – Cryptococcus
neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii – cause nearly all cryptococcal infections in humans and animals. Although
many people who develop cryptococcosis have weakened immune systems, some are previously healthy.
Cryptococcus neoformans can be found in soil throughout the world. People at risk can become infected after
inhaling microscopic, airborne fungal spores. Sometimes these spores cause symptoms of a lung infection,
but other times there are no symptoms at all. In people with weakened immune systems, the fungus can spread to
other parts of the body and cause serious disease. Researchers should consult the current Centers for
Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of cryptococcosus infection. Personnel should rely on
the use of protective clothing (face shields or masks, goggles, and gloves), personal hygiene, and
sanitation measures to prevent transmission of the disease.
Psittacosis
Cause is Chlamydophila (or Chlamydia) psittaci, a gram-negative bacterium. In humans, infection is characterized
by fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a dry cough. Pneumonia is often evident on chest x-ray.
Endocarditis, hepatitis, and neurologic complications may occasionally occur. Severe pneumonia requiring
intensive-care support may also occur. Fatal cases have been reported. Infection is acquired by inhaling dried
secretions from infected birds. The incubation period is 5 to 19 days. Although all birds are susceptible, pet
birds (parrots, parakeets, macaws, and cockatiels) and poultry (turkeys and ducks) are most frequently involved in
transmission to humans. Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used when handling birds or cleaning their
cages. Psittacosis is a reportable condition in most states. Researchers should consult the current Centers
for Disease Control guidelines for the prevention of psittacosis infection. Personnel should rely on the
use of protective clothing (face shields or masks, goggles, and gloves), personal hygiene, and
sanitation measures to prevent transmission of the disease.
Salmonellosis
Refer to Rodents and Rabbits section.
E. coli enterocolitis
Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria normally live in the intestines of people and animals. Most E. coli are
harmless and actually are an important part of a healthy human intestinal tract. However, some E. coli are
pathogenic, meaning they can cause illness; either diarrhea or illness outside of the intestinal tract (urinary tract
infections, respiratory illness and pneumonia, and other illnesses). The types of E. coli that can cause diarrhea
can be transmitted through contaminated water or food, or through contact with animals or persons.
E. coli consists of a diverse group of bacteria. Pathogenic E. coli strains are categorized into pathotypes. Six
pathotypes are associated with diarrhea and collectively are referred to as diarrheagenic E. coli.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC)—STEC may also be referred to as Verocytotoxin-producing E. coli (VTEC) or
enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). This pathotype is the one most commonly heard about in the news in
association with foodborne outbreaks. Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control
guidelines for the prevention of Escherichia coli infection. Personnel should rely on the use of
protective clothing (face shields or masks, goggles, and gloves), personal hygiene, and sanitation
measures to prevent transmission of the disease.
Tuberculosis
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Refer to Cattle, Sheep and Goats section.
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Diseases carried by Fish, Amphibians and Reptiles
(see also the following table entitled ‘Zoonoses of Fish, Amphibians and Reptiles’;
www.apsu.edu/files/iacuc/Zoonoses-fish-reptiles-amphibians.pdf)
Pentastomid Worms
Pentastomid worms are found in many different species of turtles, lizards and snakes. The worms live in their lungs
and nasal passages. Reptiles cough up the eggs and then swallow them, where they are passed out of the body in
the stool. A reptile can spread millions of eggs around its enclosure this way. Transmission to humans typically
occurs when animals or waste are handled and then the person touches his/her mouth or eyes. If eggs enter the
human body, they hatch and become larvae. The larvae penetrate through human intestines and travel through
the bloodstream, finding new homes in the liver, lungs or lymph nodes of their new host. The worms do not
respond to medication and must be surgically removed.
Appropriate personal-hygiene practices (e.g., protective clothing, disposable gloves, hand-washing)
should be employed to help prevent contracting diseases or parasites associated with amphibians,
fish and reptiles. Researchers should consult the current Centers for Disease Control guidelines for
the prevention of the listed zoonoses associated with fish, amphibians and reptiles.
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EKU IACUC Form W: Animal Worker Questionnaire, Page 2
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