
Animal Worker Occupational Health
Animal research involves a diverse range of hazards, some that pertain to animals, and others are a result of the work being performed. University personnel working in animal care and use environments must receive hazard awareness training, review all pertinent occupational health information, and follow safe and healthy practices.
Zoonotic Disease Information by Species
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Amphibians
Potential Zoonotic Diseases for Amphibians
The overall incidence of transmission of disease-producing agents from amphibians to humans is low. There are, however, a few agents that are found in amphibians and aquarium water that have the potential to be transmitted. In general, humans acquire these diseases through ingestion of infected tissues or aquarium water, or by contamination of lacerated or abraded skin. Exotic amphibians can produce highly dangerous skin secretions, and should be labeled as such and handled with protective gloves. An important feature of many of these organisms is their opportunistic nature. The development of disease in the human host often requires a preexisting state that compromises the immune system. If you have an immune-compromising medical condition, or you are taking medications that impair your immune system (steroids, immunosuppressive drugs, or chemotherapy), you are at risk for contracting diseases and should consult your physician. The following is a list of potential amphibian zoonoses.
Salmonella: This bacterium inhabits the intestinal tract of many animals and humans. Salmonella occurs worldwide and is easily transmitted through ingestion, either direct or indirect. Common symptoms of the illness are acute gastroenteritis with sudden onset of abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and fever. Antibiotic treatment is standard treatment for the illness.
Sparganosis: While unlikely in this area, amphibians can become intermediate hosts to the pseudophyllidean cestode of the genus Spirometra. Disease in man is primarily caused by ingestion of meat or contaminated water. Contact with the muscles of infected frogs is also considered a mode of transmission. Common symptoms include a nodular lesion (bump) that develops slowly and can be found on any part of the body. The main symptom is itching, sometimes accompanied by urticarial rash. Human sparganosis can be prevented by avoiding ingestion of contaminated water and meat, and avoiding direct contact with infected muscles.
Other Diseases: Escherichia coli and Edwardsiella tarda are additional zoonotic organisms that have been documented in amphibians. Human infections are typically acquired through wound contamination or ingestion of contaminated water resulting in gastroenteritis type symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Allergic Reactions to Amphibians: Human sensitivity to amphibian proteins in the laboratory setting is rare. It remains possible, however, to become sensitized to amphibian proteins through inhalation or skin contact. You are strongly advised to contact the Occupational Health Director at 951-827-5528 to discuss this issue and arrange for follow-up with an occupational health physician.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly: If you are injured on the job, promptly report the accident to your supervisor even if it seems relatively minor. Minor cuts and abrasions should be immediately cleansed with antibacterial soap and then protected from exposure to animals and their housing materials.
For more serious injuries seek medical services through Workers Compensation.
For treatment locations:
- Medical Treatment Facilities Guide
- Undergraduate Student Employees report your injury to your supervisor and complete the steps above (or go to Employee Injuries)
- Visiting Faculty, Registered Volunteers and Student Employee Responsibilities: It is important for everyone to notify and communicate with their supervisors prior to going to the doctor or physical therapy appointments and keep their supervisors informed of the status of their injury.
- Undergraduate Students (Non Employee) All students should visit Student Health Services for assistance.
References: http://dels-old.nas.edu/ilar_n/ilarjournal/48_3/pdfs/4803Alworth.pdf
Revised 08/2025. Information taken from UC Davis.
Species Biological Hazard/Pathogen Route of Transmission Clinical Symptoms Prevention/Prophylaxis Medical Surveillance Required Risks for Exposure at UCR Amphibians Aeromonas hydrophila Contamination through wounds or various traumas Diarrhea, slight fever, abdominal pains, blood and mucus in feces, weight loss, dehydration, cellulitis Clean and disinfect wounds, personal hygiene, PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Campylobacteriosis Fecal, contaminated food and water Diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, visible or occult blood, headache, muscle and joint pain Personal hygiene and PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Escherichia coli Fecal, contaminated food and water Diarrhea, abdominal pains, fever, vomiting, hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, azotemia, thrombosis in terminal arterioles and capillaries Personal hygiene and PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Klebsiella spps Direct contact, handling Pneumonia, UTI, nosocomial infection, and septicemia Personal hygiene and PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Mycobacterium ulcerans Handling infected animals Infections start as erythematous nodules on the extremities and gradually become large, indolent ulcers with necrotic base Personal hygiene and PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Pentastosomiasis Fecal/oral, contaminated food and water Prostatitis, ocular infection, acute abdomen, lacrimation, nasal discharge, dyspnea, dysphagia, vomiting, headaches, photophobia, exophthalmia Personal hygiene and PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Salmonellosis Fecal/oral, contaminated food and water Diarrhea, vomiting, low grade fever Personal hygiene and PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Sparganosis Contaminated food and water Pruritus, urticaria. Ocular sparganosis consist of painful edema of eyelids with lacrimation and pruritus Personal hygiene and PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Amphibians Burkholderia pseudomallei Contaminated soil and surface water and contact with contaminated wounds Localized skin infection, pulmonary infections and acute blood stream infections Wearing boots in agricultural situations, Universal precautions in hospitals/care facilities and PPE personal hygiene No TBD based on hazard assessment - Medical Treatment Facilities Guide
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Bats
Additional information will be updated soon.
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Birds
Potential Zoonotic Diseases for Birds
Birds can carry organisms that may be potentially infectious to humans. Bird colonies in the laboratory setting are normally closely managed to produce high quality, healthy animal models. The likelihood of a person contracting a disease from a bird is very low. However, there is always a risk of an outbreak occurring within a colony, either from a new bird being introduced into an established colony or from individuals inadvertently contaminating a colony by wearing shoes or clothing that have been in contact with asymptomatic disease-carrying birds. A disease, such as psittacosis, is infectious both to other birds and to people. Therefore, an outbreak within a colony could significantly increase the risk of human exposure.
Psittacosis (Ornithosis, Chlamydiosis): Psittacosis is a disease caused by the bacteria, Chlamydia psittaci. Psittacosis is common in wild birds of all types and can occur in laboratory bird colonies as well. The reservoir/source of infection to people is infected birds, especially ones displaying symptoms (diarrhea, respiratory signs, conjunctivitis and nasal discharge.) This disease is highly contagious to other birds as well as humans. Transmission may be through direct contact or from aerosolization with exudative materials (e.g. pus), secretions or feces. Direct contact with the bird is not necessary. In people, the disease occurs 7-14 days after exposure. An infected human may develop a respiratory illness of varying severity, from flu-like symptoms in mild cases to pneumonia in more significant infections. Serious cases can result in extensive interstitial pneumonia and rarely hepatitis, myocarditis, thrombophlebitis, and encephalitis. It is responsive to antibiotic therapy. Relapses occur in untreated infections.
Salmonellosis: Salmonellosis is a disease caused by the bacteria species Salmonella. It is one of the most common zoonotic diseases in humans. Birds and reptiles (especially iguanas) are the animals most frequently associated with Salmonella. Most people typically contract the disease by consuming food or water contaminated with the bacteria. Symptoms include diarrhea (usually watery, and occasionally bloody), nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and abdominal cramps. If the bacteria leaves the blood stream and enters the central nervous system, meningitis/encephalitis may develop. Salmonellosis is a very serious disease in humans, especially for young children and people with compromised immune systems.
Newcastle disease and Avian Tuberculosis: Newcastle disease is a serious and fatal viral disease in avian species. Affected birds may demonstrate neurological signs that progress to death. Definitive diagnosis is through viral isolation of the organism. The disease is quite contagious among birds and has zoonotic potential that often may go unrecognized. Clinical signs in people most commonly involve a mild conjunctivitis, which is self-limiting. Mycobacterium avian (and possibly other species) is a causative agent of tuberculosis. Affected birds may carry the disease for years, and intermittently shed organisms. Humans are more commonly infected with M. tuberculosis and occasionally M. bovis. It is believed that immunocompetent humans are resistant to the strains of tuberculosis found in birds, but immunocompromised people, such as those infected with HIV, those on chemotherapy, the elderly and children, are at increased risk. In adults, tuberculosis frequently affects the lungs, producing respiratory signs. People who are infected with human tuberculosis should not own birds since they can serve as a source of infection for their pets.
Allergic Reaction to Birds: Various bird proteins have been identified as sources of antigens involved in both allergic reactions and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a lung condition with symptoms that mimic pneumonia. Symptoms develop after repeated exposure to a specific antigen. Signs of an allergic reaction after exposure to birds are rhinitis and asthma symptoms (wheezing and dry cough). Signs and symptoms of both allergic reactions and hypersensitivity pneumonitis usually occur several hours after exposure. To reduce exposure, perform procedures in a laminar flow hood whenever possible. If you have symptoms you are strongly advised to contact the Occupational Health Director at 951-827-5528 to discuss this issue and arrange for follow-up with an occupational health physician.
How to Protect Yourself
Wash your hands. The single most effective preventative measure that can be taken is thorough, regular hand washing. Wash hands and arms after handling birds, their cages and their water. Never smoke, drink, or eat in the animal rooms or before washing your hands.
Wear Personal Protective equipment. If you handle birds select the appropriate gloves for the job, and when in close contact with birds of unknown origin wear respiratory protection. For more information please contact the Occupational Health Director at 951-827-5528 or visit the website for more information.
Tell your physician you work with birds. Whenever you are ill, even if you're not certain that the illness is work-related, always mention to your physician that you work with birds. Many zoonotic diseases have flu-like symptoms and would not normally be suspected. Your physician needs this information to make an accurate diagnosis. Questions regarding personal human health should be answered by your physician.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly. If you are injured on the job, promptly report the accident to your supervisor even if it seems relatively minor. Minor cuts and abrasions should be immediately cleansed with antibacterial soap and then protected from exposure to birds. For more serious injuries seek medical services through Workers Compensation.For treatment locations:
- Medical Treatment Facilities Guide
- Undergraduate Student Employees report your injury to your supervisor and complete the steps above (or go to Employee Injuries)
- Visiting Faculty, Registered Volunteers and Student Employee Responsibilities: It is important for everyone to notify and communicate with their supervisors prior to going to the doctor or physical therapy appointments and keep their supervisors informed of the status of their injury.
- Undergraduate Students (Non Employee) All students should visit Student Health Services for assistance.
Species Biological Hazard/Pathogen Route of Transmission Clinical Symptoms Prevention/Prophylaxis Medical Surveillance Required Risks for Exposure at UCR Birds Campylobacteriosis Fecal/Oral from contaminated food and water Diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, visible or occult blood, headache, muscle and joint pain Personal hygiene or PPE No TBD based on hazard assessment Birds Newcastle disease virus Contact with animal, inhalation of aerosols Congestion, lacrimation, pain, swelling of subconjunctival tissues, slightly elevated temperatures, chills, pharyngitis Personal hygiene, use of respirator No TBD based on hazard assessment Birds Psittacosis Airborne or direct contact Respiratory symptoms Screening of bird flocks. Very transmissible, use PPE, personal hygiene No TBD based on hazard assessment Birds Salmonellosis Fecal/Oral, contaminated food and water Diarrhea, vomiting, low grade fever Personal hygiene No TBD based on hazard assessment Revised 08/2025. Information taken from UC Davis.
- Medical Treatment Facilities Guide
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Cats
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Fish
Potential Zoonotic Diseases for Fish
Aside from food poisonings, the overall incidence of transmission of disease-producing agents from fish to humans is low. There are, however, a number of agents that are found in fish and aquarium water that have the potential to be transmitted to humans. In general, humans contract fish borne disease through ingestion of infected fish tissues or aquarium water or by contamination of lacerated or abraded skin. An important feature of many of the disease causing agents is their opportunistic nature. The development of disease in the human host often requires a preexisting state that compromises the immune system. If you have an immune-compromising medical condition or you are taking medications that impair your immune system (steroids, immunosuppressive drugs, or chemotherapy), you are at-risk for contracting a fish borne disease and should consult your physician. The following is a list of known and potential fish borne zoonoses.
Mycobacterium: Organisms in the genus Mycobacterium are non-motile, acid-fast rods. Two species, M. fortuitum and M. marinum, are recognized as pathogens of tropical fish. Humans are typically infected by contamination of lacerated or abraded skin with aquarium water or fish contact. A localized granulomatous nodule (hard bump) may form at the site of infection, most commonly on hands or fingers. The granulomas usually appear approximately 6-8 weeks after exposure to the organism. They initially appear as reddish bumps (papules) that slowly enlarge into purplish nodules. The infection can spread to nearby lymph nodes. More disseminated forms of the disease are likely in immunocompromised individuals. It is possible for these species of mycobacterium to cause some degree of positive reaction to the tuberculin skin test.
Aeromonas spp.: Aeromonad organisms are facultative anaerobic, gram-negative rods. These organisms can produce septicemia (a severe generalized illness) in infected fish. The species most commonly isolated is A. hydrophilia. It is found world wide in tropical fresh water and is considered part of the normal intestinal microflora of healthy fish. Humans infected with Aeromonas may show a variety of clinical signs, but the two most common syndromes are gastroenteritis (nausea, vomiting and diarrhea) and localized wound infections. Again, infections are more common and serious in the immunocompromised individual.
Other Bacteria and Protozoa: Below is a list of additional zoonotic organisms that have been documented in fish or aquarium water. Human infections are typically acquired through ingestion of contaminated water (resulting in gastroenteritis symptoms) or from wound contamination.
Gram-negative Organisms: Plesiomonas shigelloides, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Klebsiella spp., Edwardsiella tarda
Gram-positive Organisms: Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Clostridium, Erysipelothrix, Nocardia
Protozoa: CryptosporidiumAllergic Reactions to Fish: Human sensitivity to fish proteins in the laboratory setting is rare. It remains possible, however, to become sensitized to fish proteins through inhalation or skin contact. If you have symptoms you are strongly advised to contact the Occupational Health Director at ehsocchealth@ucr.edu to discuss this issue and arrange for follow-up with an occupational health physician.
Species Biological Hazard/Pathogen Route of Transmission Clinical Symptoms Prevention/Prophylaxis Medical Surveillance Required Risk for Exposure at UCR Fish Aeoromonas (link opens in a new tab) Fecal/oral contact with fish water Gastrointestinal disorder (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) Personal hygiene, PPE No Yes Fish Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae Contact with animal and animal products through wounds and skin abrasions Arthritis in the finger joints, burning sensation, pulsating pain, intense pruritus Personal hygiene, PPE, proper treatment of wounds No Yes Fish Salmonellosis (link opens in a new tab) Fecal/Oral, contaminated food and water Diarrhea, vomiting, low grade fever Personal hygiene No Yes Fish Mycobacterium (link opens in a new tab) Contact with animal and animal products through wounds and skin abrasions The most frequent sign is a slowly developing nodule (raised bump) at the site the bacteria entered the body. Frequently, the nodule is on the hand or upper arm. Later the nodule can become an enlarging sore (an ulcer). Swelling of nearby lymph nodes occurs. PPE, Review Mycobacterium Post-Exposure Plan (PEP) No Yes References:
Louis J. DeTolla, S. Srinivas, Brent R. Whitaker, Christopher Andrews, Bruce Hecker, Andrew S. Kane and Renate Reimschuessel. Guidelines for the Care and Use of Fish in Research ILAR J (1995) 37(4): 159-173 doi:10.1093/ilar.37.4.1 (link opens in a new tab).
Microbial Presence:
Thune, R. L., L. A. Stanley, R. K. Cooper. 1993. Pathogenesis of Gram-negative bacterial infections in warmwater fish (link opens in a new page). Annual Review of Fish Diseases 3:37-68.
Transgenic and Laboratory Fishes:
Hallerman, E. M. and A. R. Kapuscinski. 1995. Incorporating risk assessment and risk management into public policies on genetically modified finfish and shellfish. Aquaculture 137:9-17.
Hashish E, Merwad A, Elgaml S, Amer A, Kamal H, Elsadek A, Marei A, Sitohy M. Mycobacterium marinum infection in fish and man: epidemiology, pathophysiology and management; a review. Vet Q. 2018;38:35–46. doi:10.1080/01652176.2018.1447171 (link opens in a new tab).
Ostrander, G.K. 2000. The Laboratory Fish. Academic Press, San Diego, CA.
Warmbrodt, R.D. and V. Stone. 1993. Transgenic fish research: a bibliography (link opens in a new tab). National Agriculture Library. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD.
Winn, R. 2001. Transgenic fish as models in environmental toxicology. Institute for Laboratory Animal Research 43:322-329.
Revised 07/2025. Information taken from UC Davis.
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Rabbits
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Reptiles
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Rodents (Rat, Mouse, Guinea Pig, Hamster)
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Zoonotic Disease Information
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Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that can infect many animals, including humans. It belongs to a larger group of parasites that are collectively called "coccidia". Toxoplasma occurs worldwide — an estimated 30% of all human beings have been infected by Toxoplasma gondii at some point in their lives.
Most infections are silent and have no ill effect on the patient. Occasionally, Toxoplasma gondii infections can be devastating. If a woman who has not previously been infected with Toxoplasma gondii becomes infected while she is pregnant, there is no significant chance that the organism will produce severe neurological damage in the developing fetus. Toxoplasma gondii is also a special risk in the case of individuals that may have weakened immune systems such as individuals receiving cancer or transplant therapy or individuals that are positive for HIV.
To learn more about understanding, preventing, and diagnosing Toxoplasmosis and how to protect yourself and your loved ones, visit our website Toxoplasmosis and Safety Precautions for Working with Toxoplasma gondii for more information.
Need Help or More Information?
Contact Occupational Health:
📧 ehsocchealth@ucr.edu
📞 (951) 827-9902
🌐 ehs.ucr.edu/occupational-health (link opens in a new tab) -
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS)
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a respiratory disease caused by a virus known as Sin Nombre Virus.
The virus is carried by wild rodents, especially deer mice. The virus produces no clinical signs in the deer mice, but can produce a deadly infection in man - over 50% of human cases have been fatal.
What is Hantavirus?
Hantavirus is a serious and potentially fatal illness transmitted by infected rodents. Humans can become infected through:
- Inhaling dust contaminated with rodent urine, droppings, or saliva
- Direct contact with rodent bodily fluids
- (Rarely) through rodent bites
While dogs and cats are not direct carriers, they may inadvertently expose humans to infected rodents.
Primary Carrier in California:
Deer Mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus)
- Size: Comparable to a house mouse
- Color: Pale gray to reddish-brown with a white belly and feet
- Tail: Bi-colored and slightly shorter than the body
- Habitat: Found in forests, grasslands, chaparral, and brushy areas throughout California
Who’s at Risk at UCR?
- Field researchers or students handling or trapping wild rodents
- Staff cleaning field stations, barns, attics, or storage areas
- Maintenance personnel working in crawl spaces or unused buildings
- Campers or students working in remote or rural field locations
Recognizing Hantavirus Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear 1–6 weeks after exposure and may include:
- High fever (101–104°F)
- Muscle aches, chills, and headache
- Abdominal, joint, or back pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty breathing due to fluid in the lungs
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) can be fatal. If symptoms develop after potential exposure, seek immediate medical care and inform your provider of the rodent exposure.
Prevention Measures
Rodent Elimination
- Use snap traps baited with peanut butter for at least one week
- Treat affected areas for fleas as needed
- Use tamper-resistant bait stations in accordance with UC policy
Disposal Protocol
- Spray rodents and contaminated materials with disinfectant before handling
- Use gloves or an inverted plastic bag to handle carcasses
- Seal waste in a plastic bag and dispose of in a rodent proof container
Safe Cleaning Practices
Before entering a rodent infested area:
- Air out the area for at least 30 minutes
- Wear gloves, eye protection, N95 or P100 mask, and protective clothing
For Cleaning
- Use a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or an EPA registered disinfectant
- Spray all contaminated materials before and after handling — do not sweep or vacuum
- Mop floors, disinfect hard surfaces, and wash bedding/clothing in hot water
UCR Fieldwork Safety Guidelines
- Attend EH&S Field Safety & Hantavirus Awareness Training
- Wear HEPA-filtered respirators in enclosed or high-risk rodent areas (contact EH&S medical clearance and for fitting)
- Decontaminate reusable PPE and equipment after field use
- Do not eat, drink, or touch your face when handling rodents or cleaning traps
Working with Laboratory and Wild Rodents
- Lab colonies of deer mice must test negative for hantavirus and be re-tested regularly (check with your facility veterinarian)
- Do not mix wild-caught mice with lab-reared colonies
- Isolate wild-caught rodents until cleared by testing
- Field biologists must treat wild deer mice as potentially infected and wear EH&S-approved HEPA respirators when handling or cleaning
When cleaning rodent-infested structures
- Wear a fitted HEPA respirator and gloves
- Ventilate the structure for at least 24 hours
- Thoroughly spray all surfaces with disinfectant
- Disinfect gloves before removal and wash hands afterward
- Avoid sleeping in contaminated areas
Need Help or More Information?
Contact Occupational Health:
📧 ehsocchealth@ucr.edu
📞 (951) 827-9902
🌐 ehs.ucr.edu/occupational-health (link opens in a new tab)Resource: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome - CDPH
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Mycobacterium Marinum
Mycobacterium marinum is found in soil, water, and biofilms, and causes skin and soft tissue infections. It enters through cuts or abrasions, often from fish tanks or aquatic environments. No person-to-person transmission has been reported.
Laboratory Hazards & Controls
- Routes: Aerosols, mucous membrane contact, ingestion, contaminated sharps
- Disinfectants: 2% alkaline glutaraldehyde, 5% phenol, 1% sodium hypochlorite
- PPE: Lab coats, gloves, eye protection
- Best Practices:
- Use BSL-2 procedures
- Conduct splash-generating tasks in a certified BSC
- Wear gloves when handling fish/water
- Wash hands regularly and avoid personal item use during procedures
High-Risk Individuals
- Immunocompromised
- Individuals with open wounds
Immediate Action by Route of Exposure (UCR Protocol)
Needlestick, Animal Bite, or Laceration:
Immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and running water. Do not apply disinfectants or alcohol to broken skin.
Mucous Membranes (Eyes, Nose, Mouth):
If exposure occurs via splash or spray:
- Eyes – Flush with clean water at an eyewash station for 10–15 minutes.
- Mouth – Rinse out thoroughly without swallowing. Repeat rinse if needed.
- Nose – Blow nose gently and wash external area with water if appropriate.
Inhalation:
If potentially contaminated materials were aerosolized:
- Rinse mouth twice with water and spit. Do not swallow.
- Leave the area and report to your supervisor.
After First Aid
All suspected exposures related to research activities must be reported immediately to UCR's EH&S at 951-827-5528 and to the Campus Biosafety Officer via biosafety@ucr.edu.
Employees and students should also contact Occupational Health at 951-827-8220 for medical consultation and follow-up.
If exposure involves Mycobacterium marinum, treating medical providers should be informed. The typical incubation period is 14–21 days, and symptomatic individuals should be evaluated and tested accordingly.
For after-hours exposure: nearest urgent care or ER
- Inform provider of possible M. marinum exposure (incubation 14–21 days)
Medical Follow-Up & Testing
- Symptomatic individuals may need a culture to confirm infection
- Treatment is based on clinical evaluation and lab confirmation
UCR Reporting Protocol
- Complete Supervisor Incident Report via Work Related injury
- EH&S Incident Report
- Employees Seek Medical Treatment
- Students should also notify or visit Student Health Services at 951-827-3031
Final Reminders
- All personnel must be trained in relevant biosafety practices
- PIs must ensure all team members understand zoonotic risks and infection signs
References:
- ILAR Journal (1995) 37(4): 159-173
- Thune RL et al., Annual Review of Fish Diseases (1993)
- Ostrander GK. The Laboratory Fish. Academic Press, 2000
- UC Davis Guidance, Revised 07/2025
- UC Risk and Safety Solutions: https://ehs.ucop.edu/rs
Need Help or More Information?
Contact Occupational Health:
📧 ehsocchealth@ucr.edu
📞 (951) 827-9902
🌐 ehs.ucr.edu/occupational-health (link opens in a new tab)
UCR Animal Researchers Occupational Health Guidance for Researchers
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Mandatory Lab Safety and Injury Reporting Requirements
Under CAL/OSHA Title 8 §3203 (IIPP), all PIs and supervisors must ensure:
- Safe work practices are communicated effectively
- Employees are informed of how to report an animal bite, needlestick injury, or other occupational exposure
- All researchers know their right to report a work-related injury or exposure and receive medical treatment at no cost
Reporting an Injury or Animal Bite:
Researchers must be informed that they are protected from retaliation when reporting injuries per §3203(a)(5) and Labor Code §5401.
- If an animal bite or injury occurs, follow the official UCR protocol here:
- Animal Bite Procedures -- UCR IACUC: SAFETY: UCR Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Lab Animal Care and Use
At UCR, all injuries, regardless of severity, must be reported through the injury, incident, or safety concern form on the EH&S website Injury Reporting Form.
Key Steps Include:
- Immediately wash the wound with soap and water.
- Notify your Principal Investigator (PI) or supervisor.
- Seek medical attention from an approved provider listed on the UCR Workers' Compensation page.
- Complete an Injury Report Form and submit it to Risk Management.
- Contact Occupational Health for follow-up evaluation or vaccination (e.g., tetanus, rabies).
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Medical Treatment & Workers' Compensation
- UCR Worker's Compensation Portal
- Injury Reporting Form
- Medical Treatment Facilities Guide
- Undergraduate Student Employees report your injury to your supervisor and complete the steps above (or go to Employee Injuries)
- Visiting Faculty, Registered Volunteers and Student Employee Responsibilities: It is important for everyone to notify and communicate with their supervisors prior to going to the doctor or physical therapy appointments and keep their supervisors informed of the status of their injury.
- Undergraduate Students (Non Employee) All students should visit Student Health Services for assistance.
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Isoflurane and Hazardous Gas Safety
Researchers working with anesthetic gases (e.g., Isoflurane) must follow established safety protocols:
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Lab-Specific Safety Training
All research personnel must receive site-specific training before starting lab work.
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Summary of PI Responsibilities
Requirement Regulation PI Responsibility Communicate safe work practices §3203(a)(4) Include in lab training and documentation Ensure injury reporting is understood §3203(a)(3), (a)(5) Provide instructions during onboarding Inform about free occupational health care §3203(a)(6), Labor Code §5401 Share medical treatment options clearly -
UCR Researcher Safety Compliance Overview
Researcher Safety Compliance: Animal Exposure & Bloodborne Pathogens
- Animal Occupational Health Program (AOHP)
- Zoonotic risk awareness is addressed in the CITI training and will also be reinforced through forthcoming guidance from EH&S.
Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP) Exposure Control
Training and Policies:
- UCR BBP Exposure Control Plan
- UCR Learning Center - BBP Training
- Hepatitis B Vaccine Information
- HBV Declination Form is completed during the BBP training.
Employees with exposure risk must:
- Complete BBP training before beginning work
- Renew training annually
- Be offered the Hepatits B vaccine at no cost
- Complete a declination form if the immunization is refused
- Washed exposed area with soap and water
- Notify supervisor
- Submit a Report of Injury
- Contact Occupational Health at ehsocchealth@ucr.edu for evaluation