B virus infection is caused by Macacine herpesvirus 1 (formerly Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1 [CHV-1]), an alphaherpesvirus closely related to herpes simplex virus. B virus is also commonly referred to as herpes B, monkey B virus, herpesvirus simiae, and herpesvirus B.
The virus is commonly found among macaque monkeys, including rhesus macaques, pig-tailed macaques, and cynomolgus monkeys (also called crab-eating or long-tailed macaques), any of which can harbor latent B virus infection and appear to be natural hosts for the virus. Monkeys infected with B virus usually have no or only mild symptoms. In addition, rabbits, guinea pigs, and mice can be experimentally infected with B virus.
Infection with B virus is extremely rare in humans; however, when it does occur, the infection can result in severe neurologic impairment or fatal encephalomyelitis if the patient was not treated soon after exposure (see Risks for Infection and Treatment sections).
B virus is classified as a select agent, with the potential to pose a threat to public health and safety, by the U.S. Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services (see the Code of Federal Regulations—42CFR73.3).
Herpes B Virus Topics
Cause and Incidence
B virus infection is caused by the zoonotic agent Macacine herpesvirus 1...
Risk for Infection
Persons at greatest risk for B virus infection are veterinarians, laboratory workers, and others...
Signs and Symptoms
Initial symptoms of B virus infection in humans include fever, headache, and vesicular skin lesions...
Transmission
B virus infection in humans occurs only rarely. Possible routes of transmission include...
First Aid and Treatment
When B virus infection occurs in humans, it is often fatal unless treated right away...
Prevention
Adherence to appropriate laboratory and animal facility protocols will greatly reduce the risk of B virus transmission...
Specimen Collection and B virus Detection
Specimens for virus culture and serologic testing should be obtained from the exposed person...
Resources and Publications
Additional information regarding B virus and B virus infection...
Risk for Infection
Persons at greatest risk for B virus infection are veterinarians, laboratory workers, and others who have close contact with Old World macaques or monkey cell cultures.
Treatment
The decision about whether to implement antiviral therapy or not should take into account the following criteria:
- Type and physical condition of the implicated monkey
- Thoroughness and timeliness of wound cleansing procedure
- Nature of the wound
- Exposure to materials that have come into contact with macaques
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