Rapid and Effective Bio-decontamination of Military Working Dog Skin
Abstract
More than 1600 military working dogs (MWDs) are deployed in conflict regions by the U.S. armed forces. These dogs are trained for specific jobs, including tracking, explosive detection, patrol, search and rescue, and attack. One of their key functions is detection of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and energetics threat materials. MWDs operate under a high risk of exposure to chemical and biological warfare (BW) agents. If MWDs are exposed to a BW agent, such as spores of Bacillus anthracis, current protocols used by handlers include rinse-wash-rinse and a chlorhexidine sponge wipe. Neither procedure inactivates spores. As a result, viable spores remain in high numbers on canine skin. As an alternative, we have previously shown partial inactivation of spores by use of wipes soaked in 5 percent Bioxy (Atomes, Inc.; Quebec, Canada). Here we report highly efficient, rapid, and complete inactivation of spores by use of wipes soaked in Veriox decontaminant (Armis Biopharma; Fort Collins, CO). A 6 percent Veriox solution was highly effective after a 15 min contact period. In conclusion, Veriox decontaminant is a superior alternative for dog handlers to use in bio-decontamination of dog skin in the field.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1185266
Entities
People
- Brianna M. Leija
- Orshuntis Cross
- Sarah Katoski
- Vipin K. Rastogi
Organizations
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education
- United States Army Soldier Systems Center