Monkey B Virus: What to Know
How Common Is Monkey B Virus in Humans? It’s very rare. Scientists know of only about 50 cases of human infection with B virus since 1932, when they first identified it. Most of these happened after a bite or scratch from a monkey or exposure to fluids through broken skin. Still, simple exposure doesn’t mean you will get the virus. Hundreds of bites and scratches happen every year in monkey facilities in the U.S. with no infection. And, of course, most people don’t have regular contact with these particular monkeys. Those most at risk are veterinarians, lab workers, and others who work ...