Viral diseases transmissible from non human primates to man

Several virus infections of non human primates (NHPs) can be naturally transmitted to man leading to zoonotic infections. Important viral infections transmissible from NHPs include Herpes, Pox, Marburg, Ebola, other hemorrhagic fevers and viruses causing encephalitis. These infections may be transmitted by insects, rodents, by contact with patients and nosocomial infections, through bites or by contact through handling of pets and laboratory animals. The emergence and increase of these diseases is a consequence of distortions of the ecological balance, urban development and changes in agricultural practices. Non-human primates used in research also carry substantial zoonoses that pose serious health hazard to personnel and special precautions must be taken in maintaining these laboratory animals. In India non human primates live in close proximity to human habitation in both rural and urban settings. Rapid and unplanned urbanization has deprived the local monkey population of its natural habitat and food. This close association of monkeys with human settlements especially around places of religious importance in India is a potential hazard as the pilgrims and public are ignorant of infectious diseases transmissible from nonhuman primates. In this article we will review some of the most important diseases of viral origin that are found in non-human primates and present potential zoonotic hazards to human beings.