RAV3N BSL-3 NECROPSY WORKSHOP

The Research Alliance for Veterinary Science and Biodefense BSL-3 Network (RAV3N) hosted a BSL-3 Necropsy Workshop at the USDA National Animal Disease Center (NADC) in Ames, Iowa from April 29-May 2, 2024. The workshop brought together 22 RAV3N members working in high containment facilities to learn best practices for necropsy in ABSL-3Ag containment and discuss challenges and lessons learned from different facilities across the network. The workshop focused on performing necropsies in the biocontainment environment for a variety of livestock species used in infectious disease research, such as small ruminants, swine and poultry. The 2.5-day workshop consisted of didactic lectures, followed by hands-on activities. The participants also had the opportunity to practice entry and exit in a mock laboratory to practice biosafety procedures that would be required for working under BSL-3 conditions. Some of the topics discussed during this workshop were technical specifications for entry/exit in ABSL-3Ag, personal protective equipment (PPE) considerations, sharps handling and equipment, species-specific necropsy procedures, handling and processing of post-mortem samples, waste management, carcass disposal, and disinfection. The participants found the workshop to be highly valuable in that it taught new skills and techniques that they will bring back to their respective institutions. It was great to see our network members at this productive workshop sponsored by USDA.