A 37-year-old man in Hong Kong is in intensive care after being wounded by a wild monkey and contracting a B virus infection. This is the first reported case in Hong Kong but not the first globally.
History and Background
- First Recorded Case: In 1932, Dr. William Brebner was the first recorded human infected with B virus after being bitten by a macaque monkey.
- Spread and Mortality: The US CDC has recorded 50 cases globally, with a mortality rate of 70% if untreated.
- Virus Characteristics: B virus, or herpes virus B, belongs to the herpes family and is classified as a biosafety category 4 virus.
Transmission and Symptoms
- Transmission: Most cases result from handling captive animals or monkey tissues.
- Symptoms: Symptoms appear within 2 to 30 days, including blisters, flu-like illness, neurological issues, and respiratory problems.
Recent Case in Hong Kong
- Location: Kam Shan Country Park, known as Monkey Hill, where macaques attacked the man.
- Warning: Authorities caution against approaching wild monkeys due to the risk of infection.
Macaques and Human Interaction
- Global Distribution: Macaques are found worldwide and are adaptable to various environments.
- Interaction with Humans: Limited instances of B virus transmission from macaques to humans despite frequent contact.
Spread and Containment
- Human-to-Human Spread: Highly unlikely, with only one documented case linked to the use of a cream.
- Virus Strain: No evidence of a new strain, indicating no features of a new zoonosis.
Conclusion
While this recent case of B virus infection in Hong Kong raises awareness of potential risks from animal-carried viruses, human-to-human transmission remains unlikely.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the mortality rate of B virus infection if left untreated?
- A) 50%
- B) 60%
- C) 70%
- D) 80%
- How was the first recorded human infected with B virus?
- A) Laboratory accident
- B) Handling captive animals
- C) Monkey bite
- D) Consumption of infected meat
- Where did the recent case of B virus infection occur in Hong Kong?
- A) Lion Rock Country Park
- B) Victoria Park
- C) Sai Kung Country Park
- D) Kam Shan Country Park
- What caution do authorities give regarding wild monkeys in Hong Kong?
- A) Encourage feeding them
- B) Discourage interaction
- C) Allow close contact
- D) Provide medical care
- How is B virus primarily transmitted to humans?
- A) Airborne droplets
- B) Mosquito bites
- C) Contact with monkey tissues
- D) Contaminated water