Why is it in the News?

A 37-year-old man wounded by a wild monkey in Hong Kong is in intensive care suffering from infection with B virus.

What is B virus?

• B virus, also known as herpes B virus or Macacine herpesvirus 1 (McHV-1), is a type of herpesvirus found in macaque monkeys, particularly rhesus macaques.
• While asymptomatic in these animals, it can cause severe neurological complications, including encephalitis, in humans if transmitted through bites, scratches, or contact with infected bodily fluids.

Is B virus infection fatal??

• B virus infections in humans are rare but potentially fatal, with symptoms ranging from fever and headache to neurological dysfunction and death.
  • Of the 50 cases reported in the US, 21 have died.
• Prompt treatment with antiviral medication is essential if exposure to B virus occurs, and preventive measures are crucial for individuals working with or handling macaques.

How does it spread??

• The transmission of this virus among humans is rare.
• So far, only one case of human-to-human transmission has been recorded.

What are the symptoms of B virus infection??

• Disease onset typically occurs within 1 month of exposure, although the actual incubation period can be as short as 3–7 days.
• The common symptoms seen during the infection are:
  • Fever, headache, myalgia, and localized neurologic symptoms (e.g., pain, numbness, itching) might occur near the wound site.
• Lymphadenitis, lymphangitis, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain also can occur.

Treatment:

• The treatment for B virus includes providing antiviral medications.