From the Guidelines
Yes, monkeys can transmit infections to humans through a process called zoonotic transmission, and it is crucial to take preventive measures to minimize the risk of transmission. Several diseases can spread from monkeys to humans, including herpes B virus (which is often fatal in humans), monkeypox, yellow fever, certain types of malaria, tuberculosis, and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) 1. Transmission typically occurs through bites, scratches, contact with bodily fluids, or exposure to monkey feces. People who work with monkeys in research settings, zoos, or wildlife sanctuaries are at higher risk, as are individuals who keep monkeys as pets or who live in areas where wild monkeys are common. The risk exists because humans and non-human primates share similar biology and immune systems, making it easier for pathogens to jump between species.
Some of the key infections that can be transmitted from monkeys to humans include:
- Herpes B virus, which can cause fatal meningoencephalitis in humans 1
- Monkeypox, which can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe 1
- Yellow fever, which can cause severe illness and death 1
- Certain types of malaria, which can cause severe illness and death 1
- Tuberculosis, which can cause severe illness and death 1
- Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), which can cause immune system suppression and increase the risk of opportunistic infections 1
If bitten or scratched by a monkey, immediate medical attention is necessary, including thorough wound cleaning and possible antiviral or antibiotic treatment depending on the exposure. Preventive measures include avoiding direct contact with monkeys, not feeding wild monkeys, and using protective equipment when working with primates in professional settings 1. It is essential to prioritize these preventive measures to minimize the risk of transmission and protect human health.
From the Research
Infections from Monkeys
- Monkeys can transmit infections to humans, as they can carry various pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Studies have shown that nonhuman primates, including monkeys, can transmit zoonotic diseases to humans due to their close genetic relationship, facilitating the cross-species transmission of certain pathogens 2.
- Some of the pathogens that can be transmitted from monkeys to humans include Simian foamy virus (SFV), Herpesviridae, Plasmodium spp., and hepatitis B virus 2.
- Respiratory pathogens such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Diplococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae have also been found in monkeys, which can be transmitted to humans 3.
- Enteric pathogens like Shigella and Salmonella have been detected in monkeys, posing a risk of transmission to humans 4.
Types of Infections
- Viral infections: Monkeys can transmit viral infections such as Ebola virus, Simian foamy virus, and Herpesviridae to humans 2, 5.
- Bacterial infections: Monkeys can carry bacterial pathogens like Klebsiella pneumoniae, Diplococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae, which can be transmitted to humans 3.
- Parasitic infections: Monkeys can also transmit parasitic infections such as Plasmodium spp. to humans 2.
Transmission and Risk Factors
- The risk of transmission of infections from monkeys to humans is influenced by factors such as the type of pathogen, the mode of transmission, and the density of human and monkey populations in the region 2.
- Direct contact with infected monkeys or their bodily fluids can increase the risk of transmission 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The proximity of human and monkey habitats, particularly in urban and suburban areas, can also increase the risk of transmission 2.