Occupational Health & Safety

B-Virus (Herpes B, Herpesvirus simiae, Macacine herpesvirus 1 [formerly Cercopithecine Herpesvirus 1, CHV-1])

B virus (Herpes B, Herpesvirus simiae, Macacine herpesvirus 1) produces a life-threatening disease of humans that has resulted in several deaths. Although the risk of acquiring B virus is low, the severity of the disease makes it imperative to follow good PPE practices, and apply first aid when necessary.

In macaques, B virus produces a mild clinical disease similar to human herpes simplex. During primary infection, macaques can develop tongue or lip blisters or ulcers, which generally heal within two weeks. After acute infection, the virus becomes dormant in the nerves in the body region where it was first introduced. Reactivation of the virus from the resting state can result in viral shedding, and is often caused by physical or psychological stress. The infection is usually transmitted between macaques via secretions exchanged by close contact with mucous membranes.

B virus is endemic among Asian monkeys of the genus Macaca (i.e. both Rhesus and Cynomolgus macaques). Although several species of New World monkeys and Old World monkeys other than members of the genus Macaca are known to succumb to fatal B-virus infection, only macaques are known to harbor B virus naturally.

B virus is transmitted to humans primarily through exposure to contaminated saliva (in bites) and scratches. Transmission related to needle stick injury, injury obtained in handling contaminated cages, and exposure to infected nonhuman primate tissues has occurred. Human-to-human transmission has been documented in one case. After exposure by bite, scratch, other local trauma, or contamination of vulnerable sites, humans might develop a blister at the site of inoculation. The disease usually terminates with ascending flaccid paralysis.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has developed guidelines (PDF) for prevention of this disease in humans. In brief, the recommendations emphasize the need for nonhuman primate handlers to use protective clothing and equipment, to include long-sleeved garments, face shields or masks, goggles, and gloves. At the University of South Florida it is mandatory that appropriate protective clothing (PDF) be worn at all times when working near nonhuman primates, and that a supervisor be notified regarding any bites, scratches, or splashes

If you are exposed to secretions, fluids, or feces of a nonhuman primate, or if one of the animals bites or scratches you, follow instructions in SOP #609 (PDF), entitled "Response Following Suspect Exposure to Cercopithecine herpesvirus-1." These instructions are posted in the nonhuman primate "NHP Exposure Response Kit."

Once a wound/splash has been acutely managed, medical attention MUST be sought. The process is outlined in SOP #609 (PDF).

It must be emphasized that careful adherence to safe handling procedures is the most important step in preventing exposure.