Measles in the cynomolgus monkey (Macaca fascicularis)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Primate Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Measles virus is known to infect various monkey species.
• Cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) exhibit cold-like symptoms.
• Understanding measles in non-human primates is crucial for disease control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the association between measles virus and cold symptoms in cynomolgus monkeys.
• To evaluate the efficacy of an attenuated measles vaccine in protecting these monkeys.

Main Methods:

• Screening of 87 cynomolgus monkeys for measles virus.
• Vaccination of 23 monkeys with an attenuated measles vaccine.
• Monitoring antibody titres in vaccinated monkeys.

Main Results:

• The study aimed to establish a correlation between measles infection and observed cold symptoms.
• Antibody titres were monitored to assess vaccine-induced protection.
• Results will indicate the vaccine's potential to prevent measles in this primate model.

Conclusions:

• The findings will clarify the role of measles virus in the respiratory illness of cynomolgus monkeys.
• The study will provide data on the protective capacity of measles vaccination in non-human primates.
• This research contributes to understanding measles pathogenesis and prevention strategies in susceptible animal populations.