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Herpes B virus infection
A Jainkittivong1, R P Langlais
1Department of Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Abstract:
Herpes B virus (B virus) infection is common in macaques. Primary infection of B virus in primates is similar to herpes simplex virus 1 infection in human beings, but B virus generally produces only mild localized lesions in its natural host. In human beings, however, B virus can cause severe infection that may lead to death from encephalitis. Contact with monkey saliva, tissues, or tissue fluids is the most commonly reported route of transmission of B virus; a single case of person-to-person transmission has been reported. Airborne transmission is postulated to have occurred as a result of clinical circumstances in two reported cases, but there is no strong evidence to support the hypothesis of aerosol infection. Because B virus infection in human beings is often fatal, awareness of the risk of B virus infection should be emphasized. Although B virus infection in human beings is rare, it is an occupational health risk in exposed health care workers and laboratory personnel. This review of the literature of B virus infection includes case reports and a discussion of the nature of the B virus, characteristics of B virus infection in primates and human beings, the treatment of human infection, and the implications for dental health care providers. This report also serves as an introduction of the disease to the dental literature.
Insights
Herpes B virus (B virus) infection, common in macaques, can cause fatal encephalitis in humans. Awareness is crucial for healthcare workers and lab personnel due to occupational risks from monkey contact.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Primate Health
- Human Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Herpes B virus (B virus) is endemic in macaques, typically causing mild disease.
- Human infection with B virus, though rare, can result in severe, often fatal, encephalitis.
- Transmission primarily occurs through contact with infected macaque saliva or tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on B virus infection.
- To discuss B virus characteristics, infection in primates and humans, and treatment.
- To highlight implications for dental healthcare providers and occupational health risks.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of case reports and existing studies on B virus.
- Analysis of transmission routes, including direct contact and postulated airborne spread.
- Discussion of clinical manifestations and treatment strategies for human B virus infection.
Main Results:
- B virus infection in humans is rare but carries a high mortality rate, primarily from encephalitis.
- Macaca mulatta are a common reservoir, with transmission to humans via saliva or tissue exposure.
- Limited evidence supports airborne transmission, with direct contact being the most frequent route.
Conclusions:
- B virus poses a significant occupational health risk to individuals with potential exposure to macaques.
- Increased awareness and understanding of B virus transmission and risks are essential for prevention.
- Dental health care providers should be informed about B virus, especially when treating patients with potential macaque exposure.