Bvirusten
Bvirusten, commonly referred to as B virus or Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1 (CeHV-1), is an alphaherpesvirus native to macaque monkeys. In humans it can cause a severe, often fatal encephalitis following zoonotic transmission. The natural reservoir is macaques; infections have been reported in researchers, veterinarians, and workers in facilities housing macaques. Transmission occurs mainly through bites, scratches, or exposure of mucous membranes or broken skin to infected macaque saliva or other tissues.
Clinical course in humans is variable; incubation is typically from several days to a few weeks. Early
Diagnosis relies on molecular detection of viral DNA by PCR from CSF, blood, or lesion swabs, supported
Prevention focuses on avoiding exposure and strict biosafety practices in facilities that work with macaques: use