Monkey B Virus: Amid the covid-19 pandemic, the first death by another viral infection named Money B virus is reported in China. According to the reports, in early March, a 53-year-old male veterinarian from Beijing had dissected two dead monkeys. Later that, he was infected with the virus. In the month of May, he passed away.
What is Monkey B Virus?
This virus is also called as B virus (BV). It was first discovered in 1932. This virus is only identified as old-world-monkey herpesvirus and causes severe infections in humans. Herpes B, herpesvirus B, herpesvirus Simiae are other common names of this virus. This will be transmitted through the chimpanzees, macaques, and capuchin monkeys,
As per the CDC (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention), since 1932, 50 people are infected with the virus, and in those 21 have died.
How does it spread?
When a person comes in contact with the infected monkeys’ fluid or tissues then the B virus spreads. If a person is bitten by the infected monkey then also spreading of the virus happens.
Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Fever and chills
- Body and muscle pain
- Neurological symptoms like memory problems, etc
The CDC said that these symptoms can be shown within a month of being exposed to the infection, but sometimes they could appear within 3-7 days also.
Is the virus transmissible?
Till now, one person to person transmission case was registered.
In the case of a Beijing-based male veterinarian, all contacted people with him have tested negative for the virus.
Prevention & Treatment
At present, no vaccines are available against the Monkey B virus. As per the experts’ suggestion, fluid therapy is only the treatment for the virus.
Persons bitten or scratched by monkeys have to wash the area throughly. To decontaminate the area use disinfectants. If the symptoms are developed, immediately consult the doctor.
