Parasites of captive nonhuman primates.

Abstract

Parasites of captive nonhuman primates generally are more limited than those reported for field studies and in wild-caught primates. Captive primates include those in zoos, laboratory animal facilities, and private collections or pets. Primates kept indoors generally have few parasites, and those are easily eliminated. Outdoor housing presents problems in breaking life cycles of parasites, particularly those with invertebrate intermediate hosts. Decontamination of soils and substrates also makes total elimination of parasites nearly impossible. For outdoor-housed primates and those in social settings, control can be achieved through regular examination and appropriate administration of antiparasite medication. Because many of the parasites have zoonotic potential, practitioners must be vigilant and educate caretakers about the parasite life cycle and sanitation procedures.