Leprosy in sub-human primates: potential risk for transfer of M. leprae to humans
International Journal of Zoonoses
|December 1, 1983
Abstract:
Twenty six owned monkeys were examined in Andhra Pradesh, India during the period May-July, 1982. The prevalence rate among humans in daily contact with these monkeys was 98.6/1000. None of the monkeys examined had any evidence of current infection with M. leprae but six were in daily contact with individuals who had leprosy. All six of these monkeys were used for begging and had daily physical contact with large numbers of people, particularly children.
Insights
Human leprosy transmission from monkeys is a concern in India. Monkeys used for begging, especially those in contact with leprosy patients, pose a potential public health risk, particularly to children.
Area of Science:
- Zoonotic diseases
- Epidemiology
- Primatology
Background:
- Leprosy (caused by Mycobacterium leprae) is a chronic infectious disease.
- Monkeys are known to be susceptible to M. leprae.
- Human-monkey contact is common in some regions of India, particularly in urban settings where monkeys are used for begging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of owned monkeys in the transmission of leprosy in Andhra Pradesh, India.
- To assess the prevalence of M. leprae infection in monkeys and their contact humans.
- To evaluate the risk posed by monkeys used for begging to public health.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted on 26 owned monkeys in Andhra Pradesh, India, between May and July 1982.
- Examination of monkeys for evidence of current M. leprae infection.
- Assessment of human prevalence rates among individuals in daily contact with these monkeys.
- Identification of monkeys in contact with known leprosy patients.
Main Results:
- The human prevalence rate of leprosy among those in daily contact with the studied monkeys was 98.6 per 1000.
- None of the examined monkeys showed signs of active M. leprae infection.
- Six monkeys were identified as having daily contact with individuals diagnosed with leprosy.
- These six monkeys were used for begging and had frequent physical contact with numerous people, including children.
Conclusions:
- While no direct M. leprae infection was found in the examined monkeys, their close contact with leprosy patients and the general public, especially children, highlights a potential zoonotic transmission risk.
- Monkeys utilized for begging in areas with endemic leprosy warrant further investigation regarding their role in disease transmission.
- Public health strategies should consider the human-monkey interface in leprosy control efforts in affected regions.
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