URI/Upper Respiratory Infection Bacterial species?

MLT2007 · Feb 27, 2013

I was wondering if anyone knew what bacterial species causes URI in guinea pigs. I work in a hospital laboratory and shudder to think what kind of critters I bring home on myself on a daily basis. I wash my hands after work, before I touch any of my animals but I can't help but wonder if I am putting my babies at risk. I am hoping whatever bacterium it is that causes URI is cavy specific and perhaps I won't even find it at my job. I read so many horror stories of pigs going downhill very very quickly from these infections.

pinky · Feb 27, 2013

You are at risk as much from the bacteria as any other animal would be so I'd just suggest using whatever hand washing/ laundering recommendations you're given at your job.

bpatters · Feb 27, 2013

Ditto Pinky. If you're wearing a lab coat or changing your clothes before you come home, and washing your hands well, the pigs should be fine.

MLT2007 · Feb 27, 2013

pinky said:
You are at risk as much from the bacteria as any other animal would be so I'd just suggest using whatever hand washing/ laundering recommendations you're given at your job.

Unfortunately, I already know the dangers of this....I ended up with MRSA several months ago. I nearly lost my hand because of it. I am not positive it came from my job because MRSA is everywhere but I do make sure I change my clothes and wash my hands as soon as I walk in the door. I guess I am just paranoid from reading how terrible the URI can be for the guineas.

Where People & Piggies Thrive

Newbie or Guinea Guru? Popcorn in!

URI/Upper Respiratory Infection Bacterial species?

MLT2007

Well-known Member

pinky

Well-known Member

bpatters

Moderator

MLT2007

Well-known Member

Similar threads

Share this Page

Newest members

Online statistics

Key Resources

Members online