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Post-Exposure Procedures: Non-human Primate Tissues

Characteristics: B virus, or Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1, is an infectious agent that is commonly found among macaque monkeys, including rhesus macaques, and cynomolgus monkeys. Non-human Primates (NHP) infected with this virus usually have no or mild symptoms. In humans, however, B virus infection can result in a fatal encephalomyelitis.

Incubation Period: 2 days to 5 weeks in humans

Symptoms: Some patients present with a progression of symptoms that first appear near the site of exposure; others present with symptoms limited to the peripheral nervous system or CNS. A third presentation involves flu-like illness with fever, chills, myalgias, and other nonspecific symptoms, and it may later be followed by the abrupt onset of CNS symptoms. Additional symptoms may include tingling, itching, pain, or numbness at the site.

What is a potential exposure? When working with unfixed tissue from an NHP, a potential exposure includes a cut or puncture with an instrument that is being used to cut the tissue, or contact of mucous membranes (eyes, nose or mouth) or non-intact skin with the unfixed NHP tissue.

1. Immediately wash the exposed area for at least 15 minutes with soap and water. For mucous membranes of the eyes, nose or mouth, use an eyewash to flush for 15 minutes.
2. Report to UM Health Center or, if after hours, to the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. Be sure to bring your herpes B wallet alert card. If health care provider is reluctant to begin antiviral treatment, immediately call the emergency contact numbers on your wallet alert card.
3. Fill out First Report of Injury Form
4. Notify the PI as soon as possible. Note the time, place, and the details of the incident, including protective equipment used at the time of injury.
5. Report the incident to the Biosafety Officer

If symptoms appear with no known incidence of exposure: Immediately report to the nearest emergency center.

Prevention: Biosafety level 2 practices, containment equipment, and facilities; all procedures that could generate aerosols should be performed in the BSC. Wear lab coat and double gloves; other protective equipment may be indicated (face shield) if splashing is anticipated. Cut-proof gloves may be used when using scalpels. No vaccine is available.

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