Can Monkeys Carry Rabies?
Yes — monkeys can carry rabies, and monkey bites are a common reason travellers seek rabies assessment abroad, especially in Asia and Africa (CDC, WHO). There are no wild monkeys in the US, so the concern is travel-related. Any monkey bite or scratch overseas warrants prompt professional assessment.
For US residents this is primarily a travel concern: monkey bites are a common reason travellers seek rabies PEP assessment.
Key facts about monkeys and rabies
- Monkey bites are among the common animal exposures for which international travellers seek professional rabies PEP assessment.
- Free-roaming macaques at temples and tourist sites are a frequent source of bites in Asia.
- Monkeys can also transmit B-virus (herpes B), a separate and serious infection — another reason to treat any monkey bite urgently.
- Rabies immune globulin (HRIG) can be hard to find abroad, so exposed travellers may need to reach a major city or fly home to finish treatment.
What to do after a monkey bite or exposure
- Wash and flush the wound with soap and running water for about 15 minutes when possible.
- Seek medical care the same day and tell them it was a monkey (rabies and B-virus both matter).
- Contact your travel insurer or nearest embassy; you may need to travel for HRIG.
- See our rabies-by-country guide and rabies-and-travel page to plan ahead.
Frequently asked questions
How do professionals assess a monkey bite for rabies PEP?
A monkey bite warrants prompt medical assessment for rabies and other infections such as B-virus. Wash and flush the wound for about 15 minutes when possible; a professional should decide whether PEP or other treatment is indicated (CDC, WHO).
Are there rabies risks from monkeys in the US?
There are no wild monkey populations in the US, so this is essentially a travel risk. The concern is bites that occur abroad in countries where rabies is common.
Related animals
See the full animal rabies overview.
Sources
This page is for general education and reflects current CDC and WHO rabies guidance. It does not replace urgent medical or veterinary advice. If you may have been exposed to rabies, seek medical care promptly.