Monkeys with Diseases Escape in Mississippi after Truck Accident

Authorities report that a group of “aggressive” monkeys, carrying the coronavirus and several sexually transmitted diseases, are on the loose in Mississippi. This unusual situation arose after a truck carrying diseased research primates overturned on an interstate, spilling its contents.

The truck, which was transporting rhesus macaques from a research facility linked to Tulane University, fell into a ditch north of Heidelberg on Tuesday afternoon, according to local reports.

One of the monkeys, weighing around 40 pounds, is infected with the coronavirus, hepatitis C, and herpes. The agency has cautioned the public that these monkeys tend to be “aggressive towards humans.” They emphasized that people should avoid handling the animals without wearing protective equipment.

The truck sustained significant damage, creating a hole large enough for one monkey, confined in a destroyed cage, to escape into the Mississippi Valley. Photos shared by the sheriff’s office depict the extent of the vehicle’s wreckage.

It’s uncertain how many monkeys were in the truck, but all that escaped were promptly captured, with the exception of one, whose legs were still bound, and were euthanized afterwards.

If anyone spots a monkey fleeing, police advise them to call 911 and maintain a safe distance.

Tulane University, however, took issue with the sheriff’s claim that the animals are contagious. In their statement, they clarified that the primates involved are not infectious and belong to another institution. They will work with local authorities and send a team of animal care experts if necessary.

The sheriff’s office, alongside the Mississippi Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and an animal processing company, was actively seeking the runaway monkey as of Tuesday afternoon.

Typically, adult rhesus macaques weigh between 9 and 26 pounds. They are often used in research due to their genetic similarities with humans. Interestingly, adult female rhesus macaques usually give birth to at least one offspring per year, according to National Geographic.

These monkeys have played a significant role in scientific advancements. Notably, Albert II, the first monkey sent into space by the U.S. in 1948, was a rhesus macaque, helping researchers understand blood types through its unique antigen.