Monkey virus B, the appeal of virologists: «Avoid any direct contact»

Virus B, a Herpesvirus transmitted by monkeys, presents a high risk of mortality for humans, especially when the infection progresses to the nervous system…

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Virus B, a Herpesvirus transmitted by monkeys, poses a high risk of mortality in humans, especially when the infection progresses to the central nervous system. Arnaldo Caruso, president of the Italian Society of Virology, underlines the importance of monitoring the spread of the virus among wild monkeys and those in captivity to prevent the risk of transmission to humans. Initial symptoms can be treated with antiviral drugs, but if the infection progresses, the chances of intervention decrease dramatically. «The simian virus B is a herpes virus – explains Caruso, professor of microbiology and clinical microbiology at the University of Brescia and director of the microbiology laboratory of the Asst Spedali Civili. Herpes viruses are very widespread – he recalls – while this virus in particular is limited to some monkeys, highlighted for the first time in the first decades of the last century in vervet monkeys and therefore also called “vervet monkey” virus. For a long time it was more of a scientific curiosity. In the past, in fact – says the specialist – some laboratory operators who had to deal with monkeys for their experiments, working directly with these animals or handling their tissues or biological materials, happened to become infected. It was then understood that the scratch or bite of a monkey carrying this virus, or contact with its infected fluid, perhaps through an accidental cut, could make humans ill. And the infection could be serious, rapidly fatal if it involved the central nervous system.”

Virus B: high risk of mortality from infection transmitted by monkeys

The B virus, a type of Herpesvirus transmitted by monkeys, is characterized by a high risk of mortality when it infects humans, especially if the infection reaches the central nervous system. Arnaldo Caruso, president of Italian Society of Virology, highlights the importance of monitoring the spread of this virus among both captive and wild monkeys, to reduce the risk of transmission to humans. The initial symptoms of the virus can be treated effectively with antiviral drugs such as aciclovir or ganciclovir. However, once the infection advances to the brain, treatment options are greatly reduced, increasing the risk of fatal outcomes.

Virus B transmitted by monkeys, doctors: «High risk of mortality». Cases, symptoms and treatments

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