Health surveillance is performed to ensure that UAB's research animals are free of microorganisms and parasites having the potential to cause illness or otherwise interfere with research results. Its goal is to help prevent unnecessary pain, distress, morbidity, and mortality; loss or confounding of research data due to microorganisms and parasites; and risks of zoonotic diseases.

A "dirty bedding" sentinel system is used for rodents, supplemented by direct testing of colonies where appropriate. Testing is performed quarterly (every three months).  In the first and third quarters of the year, sentinels are tested by serology.  In the second and fourth quarters, sentinels are tested by serology and examination of skin and gastrointestinal tract for parasites.  Bacteriologic testing is performed during the second quarter.  Serologic and bacteriologic testing is done by a commercial laboratory using Multiplexed Fluorometric ImmunoAssay®, with confirmatory testing by ELISA, IFA, HAI, or immunoblotting where indicated.