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What are laboratory animal allergies and occupational asthma?

Laboratory animal allergies (LAA) and occupational asthma (OA) are immune system reactions which develop from exposure to animal allergens (urine, dander, saliva) and are among the most common and serious occupational diseases for persons, especially during long term work with laboratory rodents and rabbits.

How common are these allergies?

The risk varies based on a number of factors. Persons with atopy, allergies to other animals and those who smoke are much more likely to develop the allergies. The risk is lower with the cage type and processes used at the University of ÁùºÏ±¦µä, Reno.

What are some of the symptoms?

Symptoms can occur as early as 10 minutes after exposure or within 12 months of significant contact with laboratory animals. The most common symptoms are sneezing, itchy, watery eyes and an itchy, runny nose, although skin symptoms and lower respiratory symptoms (e.g. wheezing, shortness of breath, etc.) may also occur. Asthma and life-threatening anaphylaxis can occur, but is less common.

What are some of the risk factors?

• Exposure: Hands-on work with the animals or their soiled bedding and caging is the most significant risk factor.
• Genetics: Some individuals are predisposed to develop allergies and asthma.
• Environment: Working in animal housing areas without use of HEPA-filtered ventilation increases risk.

How are allergens transmitted?

Though allergens can sensitize the body via your skin or mucous membranes, the inhalation of allergens remains the most potent sensitization route. Animal bites and needlesticks also contribute to transmission of allergens.

Will my allergies go away?

LAA/OA are often permanent conditions, even when the stimulus ends and symptoms regress. Reducing your exposure is critical.

Can I develop allergies if I don’t work with animals?

Yes, you can have a secondary exposure (non-occupational) such as in the following situations:

• Sharing lab space where animals are housed or brought in for procedures (e.g., administrative staff using a desk in the lab or close to animals)
• Exposure of household members via soiled work cloths (scrubs)

If you feel you are experiencing LAA or OA, you should contact the occupational health provider for an evaluation as soon as possible and meanwhile, limit your exposure to laboratory rodents pending your evaluation and the provider’s recommendations.

How can I prevent LAA and OA?

Administrative controls

• Participate in the occupational health program for animal workers
• Do not wear soiled personal protective equipment (PPE) outside of the animal facilities
• Minimize aerosols in your work (e.g., wet the fur before shaving)
• Follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the animal care processes
• Wash your hands when leaving the animal facilities

Engineering controls

• Utilize biological safety cabinets or HEPA cage change stations
• Keep filter tops on the cages to minimize generation of aerosols
• Use the HEPA-filtered and individually ventilated cage systems

Personal protective equipment

• Properly fitted N95 respirators or PAPRs are effective in reducing your allergen exposure, sensitization and associated LAA illnesses
• The University’s risk assessment mandates the use of respiratory protection for certain activities, such as dumping of soiled bedding
• Wear a hair bonnet to decrease attachment of animal allergens
• Wear gloves and all the other PPE as detailed in the vivarium SOPs

Additional Information

(775) 982-5000

Environmental Health & Safety
(775) 327-5040