HERPESVIRUS B. B VIRUS INFECTION

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms similar to those of the flu are often the first sign that an individual has been infected with a B virus.

• Fever and shivering
• Muscle pain
• Hiccups
• Fatigue
• Breathing problems
• Inflamed lymph nodes
• Headache
• Stomach ache
• Vomiting and nausea

It’s possible that the wound or other part of your body that came into contact with the monkey will develop a few tiny blisters.

After being exposed to a monkey that was infected with the B virus, the average incubation period is one month; however, symptoms may occur as early as three to seven days after exposure.

DIAGNOSIS

Sera should be collected at intervals of around 3 weeks after exposure, before symptoms appear, to check for seroconversion to B virus infection. Saliva or blister (if present) material can be collected from a patient exhibiting symptoms suggestive of B virus disease, and B virus PCR can be used to confirm the presence of the virus.

• B virus serology determines if a previously seronegative patient has B virus antibodies.
• At the time of exposure, PCR samples may transmit the virus farther into the wound.
• Performing PCR on cleaned samples can lead to false negative results due to the lack of detectable virus levels.
• PCR tests for B virus require saliva and/or blister material.

TREATMENT

In the event that you come into contact with a macaque monkey, initiate first aid immediately.

• To begin, take some soap, detergent, or iodine and wash the wound or portion of your body that came into contact with the monkey for at least 15 minutes. Scrub the area carefully while washing it.
• After that, you should continue to run water over the wound or affected region for another 15 to 20 minutes.

Then, seek medical attention immediately and inform them of your exposure with a monkey that could potentially be a host of the herpesvirus B, B virus infection.