Animal Health Surveillance

The CM-LAF veterinary services has established an Animal Health Monitoring Program to screen rodents housed in the LAF for bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens. The purpose of this program is to ensure research animals are free of disease that could otherwise interfere with research results.

This screening takes place twice a year in all locations including RIA. A comprehensive exam alternates with a basic exam. See SOP ANIMAL HEALTH MONITORING for details of the program and tests performed

Results specific to a room can be obtained by a P.I. on request regarding his/her own animals by contacting Dr. Lisa Martin at lbmartin@buffalo.edu. A general notice will be mailed to all P.I.'s with the overall results at the conclusion of each screening.

In addition to this screening program, any animal that develops health problems throughout the year will receive an examination to ensure a sporadic outbreak of disease has not occurred.

SPF Barrier Facility

Mice located in the SPF facility undergo a similar health monitoring program 3 times a year (every 4 months). This program screens for bacterial, viral, parasitic, and helicobacter pathogens. See SOP ANIMAL HEALTH MONITORING PROGRAM - SPF BARRIER FACILITY for details of the program and pathogens tested.