Viral Diseases - YABAPOX

AGENT:

Poxvirus

RESERVOIR AND INCIDENCE:

Affects mangabeys, rhesus, cynos, vervets, stumptails, and patas monkeys. Latent infection in African species that can infect Asian primates and U.S. born African primates.

TRANSMISSION:

Need further clarification of the epidemiology of this disease. Role of insect vectors has not been determined. Aerosol transmission has been proven experimentally. Transmission to humans from monkeys has not been recorded. The virus can affect man usually after accidental skin puncture.

DISEASE IN NONHUMAN PRIMATES:

Subcutaneous benign tumors (Histiocytomas) that may reach several cm. in diameter. They usually regress spontaneously in 3 to 6 weeks.

DISEASE IN MAN:

Lesions similar to those seen in monkeys

PREVENTION/CONTROL:

Usual care should be exercised by animal handlers, including wearing of protective clothing.