Cercopithecine herpesvirus or B virus is thought to be a natural host among Macaque monkeys. Though they are carriers of this viral condition, they are usually asymptomatic until they reach adulthood. The only way that this disease can be transmitted is through bodily fluids during an active viral shedding period. Though this disorder is common in primates, this infection is tremendously rare among humans. However, when a human is infected with B virus, it can cause severe brain damage. If the condition is not caught in a timely manner, then the patient can die.
The most common way that a human can contract this virus is through a bite, scratch, or some other mucosal contact with an infected animal. There is also a case of human-to-human transmission in Pensacola, Florida. Consequently, transmission in any way is highly unlikely and should not be feared. Anyone who works around these animals should be cautious as the virus can live on the surface of objects, like a syringe, for many hours. A study was conducted involving 300 employees that worked with the Macaque monkeys. Of these 300 staff members, 166 felt that they may have been contaminated with the virus. Upon further examination, all tested negative.
Being infected with this condition leaves little time to get treatment. Thankfully, there are some signs that the B virus is present. Getting help in the initial stages can save a life. Here are the most common symptoms of this illness:
1. Vesicular Skin Lesions
Most people who contracted B virus have been bitten or have had mucosal contact with a monkey. It only makes sense when they see small lesions form around the bite area. If a person is not sure where the contact occurred on the body, these lesions can be mistaken for things like heat rash or chicken pox. Also, the small bumps can spread beyond the contact area to cover a larger surface.
These small blisters form under the first layer of skin, which is known as the epidermis. The liquid or air pushes through the surface to form a blister that is quite noticeable and uncomfortable. Though they are annoying, the blisters are quite fragile. They can easily break and disperse the liquid inside to the surrounding skin. When it comes to size, the lesions measure anywhere from a half of a centimeter up to a whole centimeter.
Upon infection, these lesions can form in 24-48 hours. Since death can come in three weeks upon contraction, any sign of blisters around a bite zone is a cause for alarm. A fluid sample or biopsy of the skin can be conducted to confirm the cause of the blisters.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]2. Localized Neurologic Symptoms
When most people think of neurological symptoms, they automatically assume things like seizures or other brain-related activity. One cannot assume anything when dealing with the B virus. Localized symptoms can occur on the skin at the infection site. The location of the bite or scratch can be the host of intense itching, numbness, and pain. The pain can be related to the bite, or it can be the virus attacking the tissues. The numbness is most certainly a neurological component. Itching is commonplace when there are lesions that are busting and oozing as well as a rash. Pain can happen immediately while numbness and itching can come a few days after infection.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]3. Flu-Like Aches and Pains
As the virus begins to spread through the body, flu-like aches and pains are observed. A general malaise is a good term to describe how the condition makes a person feel. These common pangs are the first signs of infection. Anyone that has had an altercation with a monkey or the fluids should seek help immediately. Some of the pain can be associated with swollen lymph nodes, which are trying to fight off the infection. Nausea and vomiting are also commonplace. The aches and pains start right away in most cases, but the central nervous system is not yet involved.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]4. Fever and Chills
A fever is the body’s natural way to ward off any infection. When it comes to the B virus, the fevers can get pretty high. Fever and chills are often early in the virus, and they are associated with the general aches and pains that come along as the disease spreads through the body. Shivering or chills almost always occur at the beginning of the infection, but fighting fevers with B virus is constant. When the body feels cold, it tries to produce heat. Shivering is muscles rapidly contracting attempting to warm the body. The chills can occur before the fever as the body prepares to go into fight mode. It is only trying to keep the temperature steady.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]5. Headaches Lasting More Than 24 Hours
Some people have a difficult time determining when a headache is just a headache and when it is more of a cause for alarm. Some migraines can last up to 72 hours in duration. However, once you have been bitten or scratched, you should be on the lookout for all these symptoms. Headaches are often caused in these instances when the body is trying hard to fight off the virus. The lymph nodes in the neck and armpits swell. These swollen glands become quite tender and can put pressure on the back of the neck, which can cause a headache.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]6. Fatigue
Exhaustion is common when dealing with a viral infection, specifically B virus. When a person’s immune system is under attack or has been compromised, the body works double time to try to heal itself. All the system is on high alert, and this causes a person to feel drained, tired, and completely exhausted. Fatigue is very different for each person, and some may be able to function while others may be unable to get out of bed. This feeling of lethargy is separate from weakness. Unlike not getting enough sleep at night, fatigue from a major illness cannot be improved with rest.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]7. Muscular Incoordination
When the muscles fail to move harmoniously, it is often called ataxia or muscular incoordination. Once infected with the b virus, the infection slowly begins to take over the body. Once the central nervous systems have been compromised, ataxia can be observed.
The muscles will not be able to coordinate and will move involuntarily rather than in synchronization. Once this begins to occur, it is a sign that the cerebellum or the spinal cord posterior columns are under attack from the virus. The involuntary movements can happen in the arms, legs, head or even the trunk. Time is of the essence once these symptoms are observed.
[nextpage title=“Next” ]8. Shortness of Breath
The average person takes more than 30,000 breaths per day. Dyspnea or shortness of breath is a warning sign that something is not right. While it can be caused by something as simple as anxiety, it can also be a sign that the heart or lungs are compromised. Some people describe this as being “hungry for air,” and no matter what they do, they cannot get enough.
When dealing with the B virus, it can be an indication that the virus is affecting the lungs, heart or both. Shortness of breath often so hard to diagnose because there can be numerous causes, but if you have been bitten or scratched, it can be a sign of trouble.
If you notice any of the symptoms listed and you have been working with monkeys or attacked by one, you need to get help. The virus can show signs in as little as 24 hours. Many people wait until it is too late, and they lose their life. Though the incubation period can be up to three weeks, be on the lookout for anything out of the norm when you have dealt with the Macaque monkeys.
