Cambodia Warns of Zoonotic Disease Risk from Monkeys

The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) in Cambodia has issued a warning to the public regarding the risks of zoonotic diseases transmitted from monkeys, particularly macaques, when kept as pets. According to ACCB, monkeys are aggressive, possess sharp teeth, and have a high potential to transmit zoonotic diseases to humans. Therefore, the center emphasizes that keeping monkeys as pets is not advisable. The center does not permit any direct contact or interaction between humans and animals to ensure the safety and well-being of both. Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, or fungi, and some can be severe, leading to death. In Cambodia, scenes of tourists feeding or interacting with wild monkeys are common. ACCB's warning suggests that such activities carry potential health risks. This is particularly relevant in areas around the Angkor World Heritage Site, where opportunities for contact with wildlife are frequent, necessitating caution.