ZOONOTIC DISEASES Main
I. Tapeworm InfectionsTapeworm infections (Rodentolepis nana or Hymenolepis diminuta) have been infrequently reported to cause clinical signs of dehydration and diarrhea during heavy infections in a wide variety of rodents, including gerbils. Because of the direct life cycle of R. nana, tapeworm infections in gerbil should be definitively diagnosed. It is not known whether praziquental or niclosamide are effective in eliminating tapeworms from gerbils.
Public Health Significance: Man is a definitive host for R. nana.
Salmonella enterica, along with protozoal infestation, and food deprivation, have all been reported to be causes of enteritis in gerbils. The affected animal may rarely have moderate to severe diarrhea, but frequently displays a rough hair coat, weight loss, depression, and dehydration. Acute death will sometimes be encountered. Gross lesions may include a congested liver, gastrointestinal distension, and a fibrinosuppurative peritonitis in gerbils with salmonellosis. Positive culture of Salmonella sp. should indicate concern for personnel safety. No treatment has been reported to be effective and severely affected colonies should be depopulated.
Public Health Significance: People may contract salmonellosis from infected gerbils.
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