Public health officials are urging anyone who may have had direct contact with a Japanese macaque at the Granby Zoo on Aug. 4 to contact Info-Santé.
The recommendation follows what the zoo described as an isolated incident involving physical contact between a visitor and a Japanese macaque.
In a statement Thursday, the zoo said the accidental contact occurred in a secure area normally reserved for staff.
The visitor received first aid according to established protocols, underwent further medical follow-up and is doing well, the zoo said.
The zoo said anyone who was scratched or bitten by a macaque, or whose fresh wound came into contact with an animal’s saliva, is advised to call 811 for an assessment. No follow-up is required for visitors who did not have direct physical contact with the animal.
Public health officials say Japanese macaques can carry the herpes B virus. While infection in humans is extremely rare, it can cause serious complications if not treated promptly.
‘It was biting and scratching,’ says Quebec woman attacked by rabid cat
The zoo said it launched an internal investigation and reviewed its procedures after learning of the incident.
It added that it is working closely with public health authorities, which say measures have been put in place to support anyone who may have been exposed.
