A zoonotic disease is one that is shared in nature by man and other vertebrate animals. To avoid infection with zoonotic agents potentially carried by research animals and to limit the spread of infectious agents from one animal population to another, certain general guidelines must be followed by all animal caretakers and laboratory personnel.

•  Eating, drinking, smoking and the application of cosmetics and contact lenses are forbidden in animal rooms and procedure rooms. Contact between the hands, nose, eyes and mouth must be avoided.
• Wear disposable gloves when handling animals, bedding or soiled cages.
• Protect clothing with outer disposable or washable garments (lab coat, gowns, coveralls).
• Hands should be washed with soap and water immediately after handling all animals and animal equipment and before leaving the laboratory or animal facility.
• When provided, footbaths should be used when entering and leaving an animal room.
• Exercise great care with needles.  Keep needles capped until ready to use. Dispose of used needles properly and promptly.  Refer to the ISU Sharps and Biohazardous Waste Policy for detailed disposal information.
• Bites and other wounds should be washed immediately, followed by appropriate medical attention.
• Personnel should handle only those species for which they have received appropriate training.
• Animal room doors should be closed at all times except for entrance and exit.
• Persons not specifically listed on the protocol should not be permitted to enter animal rooms.