Abstract

In 2008, the Old World Monkey Taxon Advisory Group requested the assistance of Lincoln Park Zoo epidemiologists in conducting a risk analysis that sought to answer the question “What is the risk of AZA employees acquiring herpes B infection from macaques?” While there are no documented cases of B virus infection in humans from an exposure occurring in an AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) institution, the advisory group sought to further understand the risk that may exist.

The risk analysis exercise involved the participation of veterinarians, epidemiologists, animal husbandry experts, and B virus diagnosticians. AZA zoos that house macaques completed institutional surveys. Using these survey results, best available data, existing AAZV Occupational Primate Disease Safety Guideline and expert opinion, a basic risk model was created and presented for comment at a workshop held at Lincoln Park Zoo. While the risk is not zero, it appears to be extremely low. This presentation will highlight the most recent version of the risk model.

A thorough risk analysis exercise also includes risk management and risk communication components. Various management and communication strategies across AZA institutions will be explored, and limitations of the model will be discussed.