Human Allergies to Guinea Pig Dander

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Certain people are allergic to the hair and/or dander of guinea

pigs.  People working with guinea pigs in laboratory situations

are more likely to develop such allergies because of their

continual association with them.  Signs include itchy eyes,

sneezing, runny nose, persistent cough, shortness of breath,

wheezing, a skin rash, and anaphylactic shock (a true medical

emergency).



Owners of pet guinea pigs may also be susceptible, and a medical

doctor should be consulted about suspected allergy problems if a

guinea pig is kept as a pet in the household.  Guinea pig owners

with such a suspected allergy may want to consult an allergist.