Monkey B virus(BV) – UPSC Prelims

Monkey B Virus(BV) is an alpha herpesvirus enzootic (endemic) found in macaque monkeys.

Alpha herpesviruses are pathogens that invade the nervous systems of their mammalian hosts.

The virus was first identified in 1932. It is also the only identified old-world-monkey herpesvirus that displays severe pathogenicity in humans.

The virus can be transmitted via direct contact and the exchange of bodily secretions of monkeys. It has a fatality rate of 70% to 80%.

The virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, especially in a moist state.

Human infections occur when an infected monkey bites or scratches them; they get fluid or tissue from an infected monkey on broken skin, in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Exposure to an infected monkey’s brain, spinal cord, or skull.

Initial symptoms of the virus include fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, and rash-itchy wounds, among others. These initial symptoms usually develop around 1-3 weeks after exposure to the virus.

In the later stage, the virus can lead to the loss of muscle coordination and neurological damage.

Till date, only one case has been documented of an infected person spreading B virus to another person.

The virus might pose a potential threat to laboratory workers, veterinarians, and others who may be exposed to monkeys or their specimens.

Currently, there are no vaccines that can protect against Monkey B virus infection.