Primate Research Risks
All University personnel working with macaque monkeys should be aware of the risk of exposure to Cercopithecine herpes virus 1 (B Virus). NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) has published a Hazard ID bulletin which identifies the following key points regarding this risk
- Mucocutaneous exposure to biological fluid from macaque monkeys can result in infection with Cercopithecine herpes virus 1, commonly known as B virus.
- Eye splashes appear to be common in the primate industry.
- Dendritic corneal lesions characteristic of other ocular herpes virus infections may not be present.
- All personnel who work with macaques should wear eyewear conforming to established standards for eye and splash protection.
- If exposure prevention fails, the adequacy and timeliness of wound or exposure decontamination procedures are critical factors in determining the risk for infection.
For more information on this hazard and how to minimize your risk of exposure, read the articles referenced below.
Additional information and detailed guidance on actions to be taken immediately following a suspected exposure can be obtained from
| Richard Colgan, M.D. Director, Student and Employee Health 410-328-2686 pager: 410-232-2668 rcolgan@som.umaryland.edu |
Louis J. DeTolla, Jr., VMD/PhD Director, Comparative Medicine Chief, Veterinary Resources School of Medicine 410-706-8537 pager: 410-748-2646 detolla@vetmed.umaryland.edu |
| James J. Jaeger, Ph.D. Director, Environmental Health and Safety 410-706-7055 jjaeger@af.umaryland.edu |
Wade Gash, M.D. Clinical Director of Emergency Services UMMS 410-328-8025 |
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Safety Alert # 9901
Safety Alert Archive