Assessment of the Risks of Zoonotic Infection at the Primatology Centre of the Interdisciplinary Medical Research Centre of Franceville in Gabon

Abstract

Background: Non-human primate (NHPs) conservation sites could be sites of exchange of pathogens involved in infectious diseases. It is important to assess the potential risks associated with this type of structure. The objective of this study was to carry out a risk assessment of the Primatology Centre housed in the Interdisciplinary Centre for Medical Research of Franceville (CIRMF). Methods: A questionnaire was administered to the centre's staff to assess the risk associated with each workstation, followed by a review of the various pathogens identified in NHPs. The data were analysed using two diagrams: the Kiviat diagram and the Pareto diagram. Results: Based on our results, a variety of pathogens such as viruses, bacteria and parasites, potentially transmissible to humans, were described in the NHPs at the Primatology Centre of CIRMF. The position most exposed to zoonotic risks was that of animal handlers. Conclusion: The Primatology Centre of CIRMF is a potential transfer site for the transfer of zoonotic agents. To avoid the risk of parasite exchange between staff and animals, the implementation of biosecurity measures is essential.