Changes in routine or unusual occurrences can cause changes in blood pressure, hormone levels and other parameters which may confuse research data. Most USC animals are bred and cared for under strict hygienic conditions to maintain their disease-free status. Visitors may inadvertently introduce bacteria or viruses into the animal facility which could compromise the disease-free state. D. Areas such as the biohazard containment area are not open to the public for safety reasons. The nonhuman primate areas are not normally open to the public because of the potential for transmission of organisms from man to animals and animal to man.
Nonhuman primates are also particularly sensitive to stress from excitement.
E. The University allows access to other animal facilities to responsible groups and individuals on a limited basis. Procedure A. Requests to visit the facilities should be submitted in writing to the USC Veterinarian or USC Media Relations which will coordinate the request and visit. Group size may be limited and it may not be possible to honor all requests during one tour. C. Special visits may be arranged at the discretion of the University. The Board of Trustees of the University of South Carolina.