Granby Zoo informs the public that it is working closely with Public Health authorities following an incident that occurred on August 4, during which a visitor reported sustaining a superficial injury after coming into contact with a Japanese macaque through the mesh barrier of the holding area.<\/p>\n
The individual immediately received first aid on site before being referred to a hospital for medical assessment.<\/p>\n
The Zoo states their internal review determined that, during a limited period of time, some members of the public were able to access a presentation platform normally reserved for animal care staff. Although this platform is located outside the animals’ habitat and separated from the macaques by a mesh barrier and a buffer zone, they cannot rule out the possibility that other individuals may also have had direct physical contact with a macaque.<\/p>\n
“The safety of our visitors is our highest priority. We are taking this situation very seriously and are acting with transparency and diligence to ensure that anyone who may have been affected can promptly receive the appropriate medical assessment. We are grateful to Public Health for its valuable collaboration,” said \u00c9milie Laurin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Zoo de Granby.<\/p>\n
What\u2019s the concern?<\/p>\n
Dr. M\u00e9lissa G\u00e9n\u00e9reux, Medical Consultant with the Public Health Directorate of Sant\u00e9 Qu\u00e9bec Estrie \u2013 CHUS, notes that Japanese macaques may carry the B virus (Herpes B virus). Although human infection is extremely rare, it can result in serious complications if not treated promptly.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnyone who visited the macaque area during the period in question and had direct physical contact with a macaque, such as a scratch, a bite, or exposure of an open wound or mucous membrane to the animal\u2019s saliva, is asked to contact Info-Sant\u00e9 (811),\u201d said Dr. M\u00e9lissa G\u00e9n\u00e9reux.<\/p>\n