In a recent statement, Siti Nadia Tarmizi, the head of the communication and public services bureau at the Health Ministry, assured that Indonesia remains free from the B virus, a zoonotic disease transmitted through animal bites or scratches.
“While there’s been only one reported case so far, it’s essential to note that transmission among humans is extremely rare due to its animal-to-human nature,” Tarmizi emphasized.
Despite the low risk of human-to-human transmission, Tarmizi urged caution, particularly for those traveling to regions like Hong Kong and China, where cases have been reported. “Avoid interactions with monkeys, refrain from feeding them, and promptly clean any wounds caused by bites or scratches with soap and water,” she advised, underscoring the importance of seeking immediate medical attention after an attack.
Recent reports from Hong Kong have heightened concerns about the virus after a man was attacked by monkeys in late February. Weeks later, he fell critically ill, testing positive for the B virus. This rare infection, as highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), can lead to severe brain damage or death if untreated.
Contracted primarily through contact with infected macaque monkeys or their bodily fluids, symptoms of the B virus resemble those of the flu and typically manifest within a month of exposure. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for mitigating the virus’s potentially fatal consequences.
As global health authorities monitor the situation, the public is urged to remain vigilant, particularly in regions where interactions with wild primates are common. Maintaining awareness and adopting preventive measures are key in safeguarding against the spread of this rare yet serious disease.
