First Aid and Treatment

First Aid

If you are exposed to a macaque monkey, begin first aid immediately.

• First, thoroughly wash and gently scrub the wound or area on your body that had contact with the monkey with soap, detergent, or iodine for 15 minutes.
• After, run water over the wound or area for 15 to 20 minutes more. Then, immediately seek medical attention. Tell the healthcare provider that you have been exposed to a macaque monkey that may be infected with B virus.

Treatment

If your healthcare provider determines that you need treatment for B virus exposure or infection, you may be treated with antiviral medications. Timely first aid and treatment for high-risk exposures is thought to be crucial to preventing life-threatening disease.