A new study has found that certain species of monkeys can harbor viruses that can cause encephalitis and seizures in humans. These viruses can be transmitted through contact with monkey bodily fluids or consumption of contaminated food or water.

Which Monkeys are Dangerous?

The most dangerous monkey species are rhesus macaques, cynomolgus monkeys, and African green monkeys.

These species are commonly used in research because they are genetically similar to humans, making them ideal for studying diseases that affect humans.

However, these monkeys are also known to carry dangerous viruses that can be transmitted to humans. One of the most well-known viruses carried by monkeys is the herpes B virus, which can cause encephalitis in humans.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 80% of adult macaques are infected with the herpes B virus.

How can Humans Contract these Viruses?

Humans can contract these viruses through a variety of ways:.

Direct contact with monkey bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, or urine
Bites from infected monkeys
Consumption of contaminated food or water
Airborne transmission through respiratory secretions

These viruses can also be contracted through contact with objects contaminated with monkey bodily fluids, such as cages, bedding, or equipment used during experiments.

Symptoms of Encephalitis and Seizures

Encephalitis is a serious condition that can cause inflammation of the brain. Symptoms include:.

Fever
Headache
Stiff neck
Nausea and vomiting
Seizures
Confusion
Loss of consciousness

If left untreated, encephalitis can cause permanent damage to the brain or even be fatal.

Seizures are another potential symptom of contracting a virus from monkeys. Seizures occur when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Symptoms of seizures include:.

Jerking movements of the arms and legs
Stiffening of the body
Loss of consciousness
Confusion
Memory loss

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after coming into contact with a monkey or an environment where monkeys are present, seek medical attention immediately.

Prevention

There are several steps you can take to prevent contracting a virus from monkeys:.

Avoid contact with monkeys in the wild or in captivity
Wear protective clothing, such as gloves, when handling monkeys or objects contaminated with monkey bodily fluids
Avoid consuming food or water that may have come into contact with monkey bodily fluids
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling monkeys or objects contaminated with monkey bodily fluids
Follow proper hygiene practices when working with or around monkeys

If you work in an environment where monkeys are present, it is important to have regular health screenings to check for the presence of any viruses.

Conclusion

While monkeys are fascinating and important animals for research, it is important to take precautions to avoid contracting viruses that can cause encephalitis and seizures.

If you come into contact with monkeys or their bodily fluids, seek medical attention immediately if you experience any symptoms.