Example of Appendix F

Taken from Carolyn Wyatt's (Bustad 364) Biosafety Manual

 

Appendix F, Cautionary Statement Regarding Cryptosporidium parvum Hazards

          Crvptosporidium parvum is a protozoan parasite which causes diarrhea in calves, humans and other mammals. The infectious form of the organism is a 2-6 m spherical oocyst. When the oocyst is ingested, the organism undergoes a complete life cycle in the intestinal tract of the host. During the infection, oocysts are passed in the feces. These oocysts are infectious for other individuals.

          Outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis have resulted from contamination of public drinking water in several U.S. communities. Outbreaks have also occurred in day care centers, hospitals and among farm workers.

          Symptoms of cryptosporidiosis can include nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal cramps and, most commonly, diarrhea. Symptoms of infection begin 3-5 days following ingestion of oocysts, and last approximately one week in normal, healthy individuals. However, when immunocompromised individuals or AIDS patients become infected, diarrhea can last for months, and often leads to death.

          Commercial disinfectants are not effective in killing C. parvum oocysts. Fumigation with 10% formol saline or 5% ammonia is recommended as the most appropriate form of decontamination. Temperatures of 45° C for 20 minutes also render oocysts noninfectious.

          Procedures for working with C. parvum in the laboratory have been established and include precautions for worker safety. Protective clothing including lab coats, disposable gloves, coveralls, boots and gloves might be required, and must be used. When respirators are required, an Environmental Health and Safety Industrial Hygienist will provide training and fit tests. Protective clothing is to be removed when leaving designated work areas. If contamination is suspected, clothing should be decontaminated appropriately or discarded in biological waste containers. Never store or eat food in the laboratory. Wash hands frequently.

          If accidental exposure or illness is suspected, notify supervisor immediately.

          It is important that you are aware of the potential hazards associated with work involving Cryptosporidium parvum. It is HIGHLY recommended that you be tested for HIV infection. If you are taking ANY medication, you should consult with your physician about potential immunosuppressive side effects that might be associated with use of that drug. If you test positive for HIV or are on immunosuppressive medication, accidental exposure to C. parvum might be extremely hazardous to your health.

          I have read the above caution, and the attached information sheet, and am aware of the hazards associated with Cryptosporidium parvum.

Name__________________________________________
Date______________________