What is a "modified SPF" facility characterized by?

A "modified SPF" (Specific Pathogen Free) facility is characterized by maintaining certain levels of biosecurity while allowing for some flexibility in procedures. These facilities typically implement less stringent procedures than full SPF facilities, which adhere to strict criteria to ensure that only specific pathogens are excluded. In a modified SPF setting, the emphasis is still on health and disease control, but there may not be an absolute exclusion of all potential pathogens, allowing for a broader range of animal usage and an increased ability to manage various types of research studies.

This approach allows researchers access to specific groups of animals that could be exposed to additional microorganisms without the need for complete pathogen exclusion, as long as they are documented and controlled. By doing so, a modified SPF facility balances the need for biosecurity with practical considerations related to research needs and animal supply.

In contrast, facilities characterized by very stringent procedures typically fall under full SPF definitions, while those allowing any vendor or having an open environment would not meet the necessary criteria for either SPF or modified SPF standards, as they do not prioritize health status and disease control.