B virus Hong Kong

Monkey Attack in Hong Kong Leads to First Human Case of Deadly B Virus

Man in critical condition after being wounded by wild monkeys in Hong Kong park tests positive for rare B virus.

In a shocking turn of events in Hong Kong, a 37-year-old man is fighting for his life after being viciously attacked by monkeys in Kam Shan Country Park. The man, who was left in critical condition, has tested positive for the deadly B virus, also known as the human simiae virus. Health officials confirmed that the man, who visited the park in late February, is the first human case of B virus in Hong Kong.

The B virus is typically spread from macaque monkeys to humans, with macaques being easily infected but showing no symptoms most of the time. This rare virus has only been recorded in around 50 cases worldwide, making this incident in Hong Kong particularly alarming. The man remains in the ICU as of April 3, receiving intensive treatment for the infection.

Experts emphasize the rarity of humans contracting the B virus, highlighting the serious consequences of interactions between wildlife and humans. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in close encounters with wild animals, especially in urban areas where wildlife habitats intersect with human activities.

As Hong Kong grapples with its first human case of B virus, health authorities are calling for heightened awareness and caution when dealing with wild animals. The man's condition sheds light on the importance of wildlife conservation and managing human-wildlife interactions to prevent such rare and potentially deadly infections from occurring again.

In a world where urbanization encroaches on natural habitats, incidents like these underscore the need for responsible coexistence between humans and wildlife. The B virus case in Hong Kong highlights the delicate balance between preserving biodiversity and safeguarding human health, urging communities to prioritize conservation efforts and implement measures to reduce the risks of zoonotic diseases.