Abstract
Summary
An assessment is made of the hazards to man from parasites of laboratory animals. The chief danger arises from gastrointestinal helminths and protozoa of primates and tapeworms of rodents and prevention of infection depends on the adoption of normal hygienic measures for disposal of the faeces and bedding of experimental animals. Simian malaria constitutes a possible danger in those parts of the world where suitable vectors exist and in these areas the screening of animal houses against mosquitoes is necessary. Many ectoparasites of laboratory animals are capable of establishing themselves on human beings but their tenure is usually short. Infestation of man can be prevented only by control of the ectoparasites in the laboratory animals and this is desirable for the welfare of the animals themselves. The possibility of human infection with the parasites of laboratory animals can be greatly reduced by a period of quarantine immediately following arrival, during which examination is made for the presence of parasites and appropriate treatment given to remove any found to be present.