How can you vaccinate a mouse?

How can you vaccinate a mouse? - briefly

Administer the vaccine by subcutaneous injection with a 27–30 gauge needle, delivering the appropriate dose (typically 50–100 µL) into the dorsal flank of the mouse. Prepare the inoculum under sterile conditions and adjust the volume according to the animal’s weight.

How can you vaccinate a mouse? - in detail

Vaccination of a laboratory mouse requires precise planning, aseptic technique, and accurate dosing. The process begins with selection of an appropriate vaccine formulation that is validated for murine use, such as inactivated viral antigens, recombinant proteins, or attenuated bacterial strains. Dosage is calculated on a per‑kilogram basis, typically 10–100 µL per 20‑gram mouse, depending on the potency of the preparation.

Preparation of the injection site includes:

• Sterilizing the work surface and arranging disposable syringes, 27‑ to 30‑gauge needles, and calibrated pipettes.
• Warming the vaccine to room temperature if stored refrigerated, avoiding repeated freeze‑thaw cycles.
• Labeling each vial with antigen, concentration, and expiration date.

The chosen route of administration determines the injection technique:

1. Intraperitoneal (IP)
   • Restrain the mouse in a supine position.
   • Locate the lower right quadrant of the abdomen, avoiding the bladder and intestines.
   • Insert the needle at a 30–45° angle, bevel up, and deliver the calculated volume.
2. Subcutaneous (SC)
   • Hold the mouse gently with the dorsal side upward.
   • Pinch a fold of loose skin over the dorsal thoracic region.
   • Insert the needle at a shallow 10–15° angle, bevel up, and release the dose.
3. Intramuscular (IM)
   • Position the mouse in a lateral recumbent stance.
   • Identify the quadriceps femoris muscle on the hind limb.
   • Insert the needle perpendicularly, depth sufficient to reach muscle tissue, and administer the vaccine.
4. Oral gavage (if applicable)
   • Use a flexible gavage needle appropriate for mouse size.
   • Insert gently into the esophagus, avoiding the trachea, and dispense the liquid formulation.

After injection, observe the animal for at least 15 minutes to detect immediate adverse reactions such as respiratory distress, excessive bleeding, or anaphylaxis. Record the following data in a laboratory notebook or electronic system:

• Animal identification number
• Vaccine name, batch number, and concentration
• Administration route, volume, and calculated dose
• Date and time of injection
• Observations during post‑injection monitoring

Proper disposal of sharps in designated biohazard containers and decontamination of work surfaces with an appropriate disinfectant complete the procedure. Adherence to institutional animal care guidelines and biosafety regulations ensures reproducibility and welfare throughout the immunization protocol.