Sri Lanka, Sept. 28 -- A suspected infectious disease is reportedly spreading among monkey and toque macaque populations in Polonnaruwa and Giritale, prompting concern among wildlife officials and local communities.

Officials warn there is a heightened risk of transmission to humans in areas surrounding the sacred city, where large groups of monkeys and toque macaques roam freely.

Therefore, wildlife authorities have urged the general public to be vigilant and take necessary precautions.

While the disease is believed to be potentially zoonotic-capable of being transmitted from animals to humans-public awareness about the threat remains low, increasing the potential for undetected spread, officials have stated.

The overpopulation of mo...