Monkeys are adorable, but they can also be quite dangerous. They are known to carry diseases, and their bites can be serious. In this article, we will explore the risks associated with monkey bites and what you can do to avoid them.
Monkey bite accounts for 2-21% of animal bites. Monkey bites are a major risk for travelers and are the most common animal bite after dog bites. Monkeys do not often attack humans, but when mocked, or aggravated they can attack or injure you seriously.
Its treatment depends on the type/ seriousness of the injury. Immediate first aid should be given to prevent further complications and should move the patient to the nearest Hospital as soon as possible.
Disease You Can Get After Monkey Bite
Monkey carries many diseases that can transfer to human via bites, scratches, or by coming into contact with the monkey’s eyes, mouth, and nose. Monkey bites/ scratches can give you mild injuries to serious infections like Simian Herpes B virus, and Rabies. The macaque or the old world monkeys are the reservoirs of the Simian Herpes B virus.
B virus infections are very rare but can cause serious brain damage and death if not treated immediately. There are reports of deadly cases in humans of hemorrhagic encephalitis and myelitis caused by herpes B virus.
Peoples at high risk for B virus infection are Travelers, Laboratory workers, Veterinarians, and others who have close contact with monkey cell cultures.
Rabies– It is a viral disease, that causes Encephalitis. Early symptoms may include Fever & Tingling sensation at site of exposure. Followed by nausea, vomiting, fear of water, violent movements, confusion, an inability to move parts of the body, and loss of consciousness.
Once these symptoms appear, the outcome is always death, regardless of treatment.
Incubation period– 1 – 3 months. {can vary from 1 week to 1 year}
Secondary Bacterial Infection– There are chances of secondary infection to the large wounds/ wounds that are not cleaned or washed for 15-20 min immediately after bite. Symptoms can include Fever, swelling, redness, and tenderness at/ around the wound, or pus formation in the wound.
What To Do After Monkey Bite
Monkey bite or scratch has risk of severe infections. It can transfer viruses, bacteria through exposed surface of the body. That is why an Immediate first aid is needed to decrease chances of the serious infections.
Following steps are to be followed immediately after monkey bite:
- Cleanse the wound by washing and scrubbing with a concentrated solution of soap, detergent, chlorhexidine and water, or povidone-iodine, then rinse the washed area with running water for 15 to 20 minutes.
- After that take the patient immediately to nearest hospital in emergency department.
- If the eyes, mouth, or nose of a person gets exposed to blood, urine, saliva or any other secretions of a monkey, immediately wash with sterile water or filtered water.
- Do not use concentrated solution of soap, detergent, chlorhexidine, or povidone-iodine for irrigation of eyes, mouth, or nose.
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Monkey Bite Treatment
After reaching the nearest hospital, Doctors/ CMO (Casualty Medical officers) will examine your wound and start treatment accordingly. Doctors will start cleansing the wound/ exposed area with sterile liquids or Iodine for another 15 mins. Then the patient will receive post-exposure prophylaxis treatment to prevent further infection. Post-exposure prophylaxis may include vaccines, medicines, and Immunoglobulins.
Post Bite Rabies Prophylaxis- Rabies vaccine or Human rabies immune globulin(HRIG) is given intramuscularly (IM).
- Dose schedule–
0– 1st dose– On the day of the bite/ scratch
3– 2nd dose– On the 3rd day of bite/ scratch
7– 3rd dose– On the 7th day of bite/ scratch
14– 4th dose– On the 14th day of bite/ scratch
28– 5th dose (if advised)- on the 28th day of bite/ scratch
Post Bite Herpes B Virus Prophylaxis- If the skin remains intact at the exposed area, or exposure is related to non-macaque species of non-human primates, or if they are not infected by a macaque, then the prophylaxis is not recommended for B virus.
- Anti-viral therapy for B virus prophylaxis- Valacyclovir – 1gm orally every 8 hours for 14 days, or Acyclovir – 800 mg orally 5 times daily for 14 days.
If the monkey bites the patient and develops neurological symptoms within one to five weeks of being bitten by a macaque, they should be referred to a higher center for further examination and treatment.
- Treatment for B virus- No CNS symptoms-> Acyclovir—12.5–15 mg/kg IV every 8 hours, or Ganciclovir—5 mg/kg IV every 12 hours.
With CNS symptoms-> Ganciclovir—5 mg/kg IV every 12 hours.
Post Bite Tetanus Prophylaxis- In the fully vaccinated/ non-vaccinated person if the last dose of Tetanus Toxoid vaccine is taken 5 years ago; 250 IU Inj. TT booster is given intramuscularly (IM).
Post Bite Antibacterial Prophylaxis– The dose of Antibiotics is given intravenously (IV) or Orally according to the size of the wound.
Monkey Bite Prevention
Prevention is obtained by giving education about monkey bites and their risks to all high-risk category people like Travelers, Laboratory workers, Veterinarians, and others who have close contact with monkey cell cultures and also by giving travelers warning before traveling to such high-risk countries.
To avoid being bitten by a monkey, there are several steps you can take. These include:
- Avoiding monkeys in the wild
- Keeping a safe distance from monkeys in zoos or sanctuaries
- Avoiding feeding monkeys or giving them food or drink
- Wearing protective clothing when interacting with monkeys
- Seeking immediate medical attention if you are bitten
FAQs
What Food To Avoid After Monkey Bite?
Alongside medical treatment, it is important to be cautious about your diet. However, I must emphasize that it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for specific guidance tailored to your situation. Here are some general recommendations:
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Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat: Raw or undercooked meat may contain bacteria or parasites that can exacerbate your health condition and pose additional risks.
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Limit your intake of high-risk foods: It is advisable to limit or avoid high-risk foods such as unpasteurized dairy products, raw eggs, raw seafood, and raw sprouts. These types of foods have a higher likelihood of carrying harmful bacteria or viruses.
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Maintain proper hygiene: It is essential to practice good hygiene by thoroughly washing your hands before and after handling food. This is particularly important if you have any open wounds or injuries resulting from the monkey bite.
Is It Necessary To Take Injection After Monkey Bite?
If you are bitten by a monkey, it is crucial to seek medical attention. Consulting with a healthcare professional is important as they will evaluate the situation and provide the necessary guidance. Depending on factors such as the type of monkey, the location of the bite, and the monkey’s behavior, the healthcare professional may recommend taking injections.
These injections could include a tetanus shot to prevent bacterial infections and, in some cases, a rabies vaccine as a precautionary measure. It is vital to prioritize your well-being and adhere to the advice of medical experts when dealing with a monkey bite or any potential exposure to infectious diseases.
Should I get a rabies vaccine after a monkey scratch?
If you have been scratched by a monkey, it is important to seek medical advice regarding the potential need for a rabies vaccine. Monkeys, like other mammals, can carry the rabies virus. The decision to administer a rabies vaccine depends on factors such as the type of monkey, the location of the scratch, the monkey’s behavior, and its health information.
Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial to assess your specific situation and receive proper guidance on whether a rabies vaccine is necessary. Your health and safety are the top priority.
Are monkey bites dangerous?
Monkey bites can pose a significant risk and be potentially dangerous. Monkeys have strong jaws and sharp teeth that can cause substantial injury. Furthermore, monkeys can carry diseases, including rabies, which can be transmitted through bites. It is crucial to take monkey bites seriously and promptly seek medical attention to evaluate the severity of the injury and minimize the potential for infections or diseases.
How can I prevent being bitten by a monkey?
To avoid monkey bites, it is important to keep a safe distance, refrain from feeding or provoking them, secure your food and belongings, remain calm and avoid sudden movements, and follow local guidelines and regulations when encountering monkeys. By following these precautions, you can reduce the risk of being bitten by a monkey.
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Conclusion
Monkey bites can be serious and carry the risk of transmitting diseases. To avoid being bitten, it is important to avoid contact with monkeys in the wild and to take precautions when interacting with captive monkeys. If you are bitten, seek medical attention immediately to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Remember, a monkey bite can be more than just a physical injury, so always take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others.
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