What should you do about Mycoplasma infection in rats? - briefly
Isolate the infected rats, confirm Mycoplasma presence by PCR or culture, and begin a targeted antibiotic treatment (e.g., tetracycline) while tightening cage sanitation and barrier biosecurity measures.
What should you do about Mycoplasma infection in rats? - in detail
Mycoplasma contamination in laboratory rats requires immediate identification, containment, and eradication to protect research integrity.
Accurate diagnosis begins with routine screening of all incoming animals and periodic testing of established colonies. Preferred methods include polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for rapid detection, complemented by culture on specialized media when feasible. Serological assays provide supplementary information but may lag behind active infection.
Once infection is confirmed, biosecurity measures must be intensified. All affected cages should be isolated; personnel handling infected rodents must use dedicated protective equipment and change gloves between cages. Environmental decontamination includes thorough cleaning of cages, water bottles, and bedding with agents proven effective against Mycoplasma, such as 70 % ethanol or chlorine‑based disinfectants.
Eradication strategies depend on the scale of contamination. For limited outbreaks, depopulation of the infected cohort followed by repopulation with pathogen‑free animals is the most reliable approach. In larger colonies, a combination of antimicrobial therapy and rigorous hygiene can be employed. Tetracycline‑based regimens, administered via drinking water at 0.5–1 g/L for 4–6 weeks, have demonstrated efficacy; dosage must be adjusted for water consumption and animal weight. Continuous monitoring throughout treatment ensures therapeutic success and prevents recrudescence.
Prevention rests on strict barrier practices. Implementing an “all‑in‑all‑out” system for each rack, using individually ventilated cages, and maintaining a quarantine period of at least four weeks for new arrivals reduce introduction risk. Regular health surveillance, documentation of test results, and immediate response to any positive finding sustain a pathogen‑free environment.
«Effective control of Mycoplasma requires integration of diagnostics, containment, treatment, and preventive husbandry practices».