Important Information About Herpes B Virus


      Please read carefully, ask questions, and understand answers about this
      form BEFORE signing the "Herpes B Serology Bank Release Form."  If you do
      not understand this material or have questions, ask your supervisor,
      doctor, or veterinarian.

Q:    What is Herpes B Virus?

A:    Herpes B Virus is a member of the herpes group of viruses that naturally
      infects macaque monkeys and possibly other Old World Monkeys.  B-virus
      produces mild disease in the monkey--most with no signs of illness.  Some
      monkeys may have small blisters or ulcers in the mouth, on the face, lips,
      or eye infection.  These sores spontaneously heal after a few days but the
      virus never goes away.  Because the virus is always present in the monkey,
      during periods of stress the monkey may re-develop sores.  During these
      periods the virus is shed by the monkey to the environment.  However, the
      monkey may also be shed by monkeys without visible sores or symptoms.

Q:    How does man get B-virus from the monkey?

A:    When man is exposed to contaminated monkey saliva, secretions, or tissues,
      we may get the virus.  The most likely way is through bites and scratches.
      

Q:    What are my chances for getting B-virus?

A:    People who come into contact with Old World Monkeys, such as the rhesus,
      are at risk.  This includes animal caretakers, laboratory personnel,
      investigators, and the veterinary staff.  If you are on some kind of
      medication that lowers your immune system you may be at higher risk for
      infection.  However, the chances of getting B-virus are very low. 
      Thousands of people have handled rhesus monkeys since human infection with
      B-virus was first reported over 50 years ago, yet only 22 cases of human
      infection have been described.

Q:    What could happen if I get Herpes B Virus?

A:    Of the 22 reported cases, 20 people got very sick and 15 of these people 
      died.  This is not a disease to take chances with!

Q:    What can I do to protect myself from getting the B-virus?

A:    Proper work procedures greatly reduce chances of infection.  When working
      with monkeys:

      1.    Be alert and careful at all times.  These are wild animals and
            monkeys DO BITE!  Monkeys can give man several diseases other than
            Herpes B Virus.

      2.    Wear protective clothing.

      3.    Whenever you are asked to handle monkeys or change cages, work with
            at least one other person.  ALWAYS MINIMIZE DIRECT HANDLING OF
            MONKEYS.

      4.    Report any sores on the face, lip, or mouth of a monkey to the
            veterinarian.

      5.    If you get hurt (bite, scratch, etc.) when working in a monkey room
            IMMEDIATELY begin to wash the wound and have your buddy report the
            injury to your supervisor.

Q:    What are the signs and symptoms of B-virus infection in man?

A:    There can be many signs that should warn you that you might have B-virus. 
      Remember, these signs can take as long as one month before they appear. 
      Also, you may have only one sign or all of the symptoms or any
      combination.  Common signs are:

      1.    Small blisters at or near the site of the injury.

      2.    Signs such as pain, numbness, prickliness, or itching at or near the
            site of the injury.

      3.    Flu-like aches and pains

      4.    Fever and chills

      5.    Headaches lasting longer than one day

      6.    Suddenly becoming clumsy--uncoordinated

      7.    Out-of-breath easily from doing things that you used to do easily

Q:    What is a Serology Banking Program?

A:    It is a way of being able to determine if you have active infection from
      a particular disease agent.  By drawing your blood BEFORE you come into
      contact with monkeys and freezing it, we can tell use your blood as your
      own control in the future should we ever think you might be exposed to the
      B-virus.  It is just another way the doctor can tell if you are sick.

Q:    Why should I want to participate in this program?

A:    It is just like insurance.  It is another way that we can make sure that
      we are doing everything we can to ensure your health.  It only makes
      sense.

Q:    Who should consider participating in the Serology Banking Program?

A:    If you enter primate rooms, work with primates, or work with their blood,
      feces, urine, CSF, etc., you should consider participating in this
      program.