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Varicella-like herpesvirus infections of nonhuman primates
Abstract:
At least three distinct herpesviruses cause varicella like exanthematous diseases among nonhuman primates. Spontaneous epizootics have resulted in high morbidity and mortality rates among Cercopithecus aethiops, Erythrocebus patas and Macaca species in research colonies. Mild infections have been observed in infant chimpanzees and a gorilla. This group of diseases is of interest not only because they are a threat to primate colonies, but also because their pathologic similarity to progressive human varicella makes them a potentially valuable animal model of this disease. The nonhuman primate varicella-like exanthematous diseases are reviewed and compared to varicella in man.
Insights
Three herpesviruses cause varicella-like diseases in nonhuman primates, posing risks to research colonies. These conditions may serve as valuable models for studying human varicella due to pathological similarities.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Primate Pathology
- Comparative Medicine
Background:
- Nonhuman primates are susceptible to herpesviruses causing exanthematous diseases.
- Spontaneous outbreaks of these diseases have led to significant morbidity and mortality in research settings.
- Mild infections are noted in specific primate species like chimpanzees and gorillas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare varicella-like exanthematous diseases in nonhuman primates with human varicella.
- To highlight the significance of these diseases as potential animal models for human varicella.
- To discuss the threat these diseases pose to primate colonies.
Main Methods:
- Review of epizootic data and clinical observations in nonhuman primates.
- Pathological comparison of nonhuman primate varicella-like diseases with human varicella.
- Literature synthesis on herpesvirus-induced exanthematous diseases in primates.
Main Results:
- At least three distinct herpesviruses are implicated in causing varicella-like diseases in primates.
- High morbidity and mortality rates observed in Cercopithecus aethiops, Erythrocebus patas, and Macaca species.
- Pathological similarities exist between primate and human varicella.
Conclusions:
- Varicella-like diseases in nonhuman primates are a significant concern for research colonies.
- These primate diseases represent a valuable animal model for studying human varicella.
- Understanding these conditions is crucial for primate health and research advancement.