The Granby Zoo is asking visitors who might have had physical contact with a Japanese macaque to contact public health after a “minor incident” on Tuesday. The zoo did not provide specific details of the incident in a post on its Facebook page. “Macaques can carry the herpes B virus (virus B). Although this infection is extremely rare in humans, it can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly,” the post reads. On social media, the zoo said it is sharing recommendations in collaboration with public health as a preventive measure for anyone who might have come in contact with the animal. “Anyone who visited the macaque enclosure during the period in question and who had direct physical contact – such as a scratch, a bite, or exposure of an open wound or mucous membrane to the animal’s saliva – is asked to contact Info-Santé (811),” said Dr. Mélissa Généreux, medical adviser at the Public Health Directorate of Santé Québec Estrie – CHUS, in a statement. The zoo, along with the regional public health department and Santé Québec, says it is monitoring the situation and coordinating the necessary health measures. “Measures have already been put in place to support those who may have been exposed, as well as health-care professionals,” the zoo added on Facebook. CTV News has reached out to the Granby Zoo and Santé Québec for more details.
