US policy for disease control among imported nonhuman primates

In 1990, in response to the occurrence of Ebola virus (subsequently identif ied as subtype Reston) infection among cynomolgus monkeys imported from the Philippines, the United States implemented strict disease control measures for handling nonhuman primates during transit and quarantine and initiated importer facility compliance inspections. Disease control measures emphasi zed protection of workers from exposure, use of containment facilities and procedures, measures to prevent spread of infection among animals, and labo ratory testing of animals that die or become ill during quarantine. From 19 91-1995, no outbreaks of filovirus infection occurred, and only one other d isease outbreak (caused by Mycobacterium species) was recognized. In April 1996, Ebola virus (subtype Reston) infection was identified in another grou p of cynomolgus monkeys imported from the Philippines. The disease control measures implemented since the first Ebola virus (subtype Reston) outbreak appeared to work well. Currently, the 27 registered importer facilities imp ort similar to 8500 nonhuman primates annually, and mortality rates are <1. 0%, Importer facilities receive regular inspections, and compliance with di sease control measures and disease reporting is excellent.