Pet therapy- Are ferret's safe for a continuing care facility?

I have a short assignment and am having fun researching. However, I always like to be a little different and was hoping a T.A might have new "scientific" insight into the questions written below (1-3). The scientific research I have attained thus far indicates they are can carry a variety of viruses that can be passed to humans (influenza). Also that they can attack humans, require a lot of training, and can get into small places and spread diseases.

The assignment goes as follows.
Should continuing care facilitie spermit ferrets to take part in pet therapy programs." I have to answer these questions.

1.I have to make a decision based on facts and research (my own opinion is not good enough); i.e., I need to provide references- can't use ".com" webpages

2. I have to compare qualities between these new "kids" with other animals that have been regular participants in pet therapy;

3. Is there disease transmission potential as compared to the regulars