Animal Welfare in Zoonotic Disease Research

Research on zoonotic diseases relies heavily on animal models, with welfare implications ranging from standard housing concerns to highly invasive infection challenge studies.

Key Facts

COVID-19 research used ferrets, hamsters, and non-human primates as infection models
Gain-of-function research involving enhanced pathogens creates significant welfare and biosafety concerns
The 3Rs framework applies to zoonotic disease research but challenge studies involve high levels of animal harm
Animal-free alternatives including human lung organoids and computational models are advancing for some infectious disease research
BSL-3 and BSL-4 facilities used for dangerous pathogen research have specialized animal welfare requirements
Post-COVID, animal research into pandemic preparedness has expanded with significant welfare implications

Welfare Considerations

Animals used in infectious disease challenge studies experience the full physiological and behavioral manifestations of the disease being studied, which can include severe respiratory distress, neurological symptoms, and death. Welfare oversight is complicated by the biosafety requirements that limit observer access. The legitimate scientific value of this research must be weighed against the significant welfare cost to individual animals and the availability of alternatives for at least some research questions.

What You Can Do

Support 3Rs research organizations developing alternatives to animal models in infectious disease research
Advocate for robust ethical review of animal research protocols in pandemic preparedness programs
Back transparent reporting of animal welfare outcomes in published infectious disease research
Donate to organizations funding human-relevant research methods that could replace some animal research
Engage with pandemic preparedness policy to ensure animal welfare is a consideration alongside safety and efficacy