Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Nematospiroides dubius)

Prepared by: Michael J. Huerkamp, DVM, Diplomate ACLAM
Date: April 27, 1999

Agent: Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Nematospiroides dubius)

Heligmosomoides polygyrus is a nematode (worm) parasite found in the gastrointestinal tract of wild mice. Experimentally it is used to study the effects of parasitism on nutrition and immunology and for drug treatment research.

Potential Hazard: Laboratory-associated infections with nematodes have been reported although not with Heligmosomoides polygyrus. Allergic reactions to various antigenic components of nematodes are also possible in sensitized persons. Ingestion of infective larvae are the primary hazard to research and animal care personnel.

Recommended Precautions: The animal biosafety level II practices (DAR SOP 400-3) will protect husbandry personnel against exposure or infection. Vaccines are not available for use in humans, but nematode infections are easily treated with specific drugs.

References:Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, 3rd edition, CDC-NIH, 1993, p. 74