YEMASSEE, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) earlier this month conducted a rigorous three-day inspection of Alpha Genesis, Inc. (AGI), a Yemassee, South Carolina - based primate breeding and research facility, and found that the center was in full compliance with the regulations and standards of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), Company officials said today. The USDA conducted their most recent inspection January 30 – February 1, 2017. A previous focused inspection conducted in 2016 also found the Company to be in full compliance with AWA requirements.
“Alpha Genesis, Inc. is committed to advancing scientific knowledge and to saving, improving and prolonging the lives of humans and animals. The AGI Animal Care and Research Programs do so while upholding the highest standards of regulatory compliance and of humane and responsible treatment of all monkeys we are privileged to maintain,” according to a statement from the Administrative Offices of the Company.
AGI officials said that monkeys are used in research only when no viable alternatives exist. The benefits of primate research include advances in understanding of cancer, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, spinal cord injuries, substance abuse, and other basic biological and behavioral processes. Improved understanding of these processes leads directly to the development of new and effective medicines, vaccines, devices and other treatments, according to scientific experts.
Government regulations mandate that the USDA routinely conduct unannounced intensive program inspections to thoroughly examine all aspects of animal health, housing facilities, veterinary care, medical documentation, and work practices at licensed facilities. “The USDA examines all monkeys, all housing, and all treatment facilities, in addition to speaking directly with staff and examining detailed documentation and work practices. To have the USDA find that an organization as large and complex as AGI is in full compliance during such a comprehensive inspection further demonstrates that Alpha Genesis provides superior care to the monkeys at its facilities, and reflects the dedication and strong work ethic of the staff who do this important and challenging work,” according to Dr. Greg Westergaard, AGI President and Chief Executive Officer.
