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The genetic and biological similarity between non-human primates and humans has ensured the continued use of primates in biomedical research where other species cannot be used. Health-monitoring programmes for non-human primates provide an approach to monitor and control both endemic and incoming agents that may cause zoonotic and anthroponotic disease or interfere with research outcomes. In 1999 FELASA recommendations were published which aimed to provide a harmonized approach to health monitoring programmes for non-human primates. Scientific and technological progress, understanding of non-human primates and evolving microbiology has necessitated a review and replacement of the current recommendations. These new recommendations are aimed at users and breeders of the commonly used non-human primates; Macaca mulatta (Rhesus macaque) and Macaca fascicularis (Cynomolgus macaque). In addition, other species including Callithrix jacchus (Common marmoset) Saimiri sciureus (Squirrel monkey) and others are included. The important and challenging aspects of non-human primate health-monitoring programmes are discussed, including management protocols to maintain and improve health status, health screening strategies and procedures, health reporting and certification. In addition, information is provided on specific micro-organisms and the recommended frequency of testing.

Objective To investigate the clinical and physiological effects of intravenous (IV) alfaxalone alone or in combination with buprenorphine, butorphanol or tramadol premedication in marmosets. Study design Prospective, randomized, blinded, crossover design. Animals Nine healthy marmosets (391 ± 48 g, 3.7 ± 2.2 years old). Methods Meloxicam 0.20 mg kg−1 subcutaneously, atropine 0.05 mg kg−1 intramuscularly (IM) and either buprenorphine 20 μg kg−1 IM (BUP-A), butorphanol 0.2 mg kg−1 IM (BUT-A), tramadol 1.5 mg kg−1 IM (TRA-A) or no additional drug (control) were administered to all marmosets as premedication. After 1 hour, anaesthesia was induced with 16 mg kg−1 alfaxalone IV. All animals received all protocols. The order of protocol allocation was randomized with a minimum 28 day wash-out period. During anaesthesia, respiratory and pulse rates, rectal temperature, haemoglobin oxygen saturation, arterial blood pressure, palpebral and pedal withdrawal reflexes and degree of muscle relaxation were assessed and recorded every 5 minutes. Quality of induction and recovery were assessed. Duration of induction, immobilization and recovery were recorded. Blood samples were analysed for aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase concentrations. The protocols were compared using paired t tests, Wilcoxon's signed-rank test with Bonferroni's corrections and linear mixed effect models where appropriate. Results Out of nine animals, apnoea was noted in eight animals administered protocol BUP-A and two animals administered protocol BUT-A. With TRA-A and control protocols, apnoea was not observed. No other significant differences in any of the parameters were found; however, low arterial blood pressures and hypoxia occurred in TRA-A. Conclusions and clinical relevance Our study employing different premedications suggests that the previously published dose of 16 mg kg−1 alfaxalone is too high when used with premedication because we found a high incidence of complications including apnoea (BUP-A), hypotension and hypoxaemia (TRA-A). Appropriate monitoring and countermeasures are recommended.