A monkey might seem to be calmly sitting on a tree which encourages some people to get closer and do some things which will result in sudden attack. Monkeys are extremely curious and aware of their surrounding, watching your every move. They will immediately launch an attack if they feel threatened or confused by your actions.
Avoid smiling at monkeys. For a monkey, showing teeth is a sign of threat and aggression. Asmile may provoke an unnecessary attack.
Always keep a safe distance from them. Moving forward towards an animal means challenging them.
Do not offer them food. Feeding monkeys creates dependency and may lead to aggression towards humans.
Avoid carrying food openly in the vicinity as this will incite monkeys to attack you to get hold of the food.
Do not take pictures. A monkey seeing its own reflection in the lens or the flash of your camera may trigger an attack.
Do not tempt or provoke them. Waving or throwing items or food at them may incite attack.
If the monkey has grabbed something, drop it or let go immediately. If it is a non-food item, they will examine it for a while, then loose interest. You can get it back. You risk being bitten if you hold on to the item.
If you encounter monkeys at close range unexpectedly, don't panic, run or make any quick moves. Be calm and gradually distance yourself from them while still facing towards them but try not to look in their eyes.
They have an impeccable sense of smell and will even detect unopened food. If a monkey is approaching you it could be for that food item in your pocket or handbag. Throw it on the ground as this can even distract his attention on you.
If you should get bitten, scrub the area with clean water and soap for 15 minutes. Seek help from a doctor.
The monkey could be carrying rabies virus so as a precaution post bite vaccinations a must. Rabies infection can go without symptoms during the incubation period of the virus. When symptoms start to show, its too late and there is no treatment after that. It is fatal if not treated immediately after the bite.
Any bite or scratch from the claws needs immediate medical attention even if there is no bleeding.
No animal wants to attack you just for fun. All animals have a certain way of warning before attacking most of the time. It can be by way of sound or by some gesture. It is important to know these signs and back off.