Herpes B virus infection

B virus is a macaque-associated alphaherpesvirus capable of causing rare yet severe infection in humans ^[1].

Initial manifestations are typically flu-like, with fever and chills appearing within roughly 3 to 7 days up to one month after exposure ^[1]. Small blisters may develop at the site of contact, and progression can involve inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, respiratory compromise, and death within one to three weeks of symptom onset ^[1].

The infection is extremely rare in the general population, with disease risk concentrated among individuals exposed to macaques ^[1]. Most people have no contact with monkeys, so community-level occurrence is minimal, whereas occupational or facility-associated exposure raises the likelihood of human cases ^[1].

Human infection can follow bites or scratches from infected macaques, contact of infected tissues or fluids with broken skin or mucous membranes, exposure to contaminated sharps, or relevant animal-facility contact ^[1]. Direct contact with a macaque's eyes, nose, or mouth may also transmit the virus ^[1].

Avoiding contact with macaques is the primary preventive measure, alongside adherence to laboratory and animal-facility safety protocols ^[1]. After any potential exposure, immediate washing of the affected skin and prompt medical assessment are recommended to reduce risk of severe outcome ^[1].

1. 1 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About B Virus | B Virus | CDC [Internet]. cited 23 Oct 2026. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/herpes-b-virus/about/index.html