A transport truck overturned on Tuesday afternoon along Interstate 59 in Mississippi, releasing several laboratory monkeys that were being moved under controlled conditions by authorities. The incident occurred when the vehicle carrying rhesus monkeys from Tulane University in New Orleans overturned, as confirmed by a social-media post from the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department.
What Was Carried & Why It Matters
The monkeys being transported were reportedly used in scientific research and are believed to carry viruses including hepatitis C and COVID-19-type infections, creating serious public-health concerns.
The sheriff’s department warned the public :
- Do not approach the animals.
- Report any sightings immediately.
The agency described the monkeys as aggressive toward humans, weighing about 40 lb each and requiring personal protective equipment (PPE) for safe handling.
The Current Status of the Incident
Most of the escapees were located and “destroyed” by local police later on Tuesday, but one monkey remains at large and efforts continue to track it. The department stated : “We are continuing to look for the one monkey that is still on the loose.”
About the Rhesus Monkey & Its Research Role
Rhesus macaque (often called the rhesus monkey) normally weighs between 9 lb and 26 lb depending on sex, and is widely used in biomedical research because of its close similarity to humans. The species has played pivotal roles in scientific landmarks — such as the discovery of the human Rh blood‐group antigen and use in vaccine research.
Studies show that macaques share approximately 93 % genetic similarity with humans, making them highly valuable in infectious-disease and vaccine work.
The high reproduction rate of the species supports stable research populations; most adult females give birth to at least one offspring each year.
Why This Escape Is a Concern
- The mix of potentially virus-carrying primates and public exposure makes the scenario a serious public-health hazard — especially since contact with wild or escaped research animals can lead to disease transmission.
- Rhesus monkeys’ aggression when loose and their size (reportedly ~40 lb in this case) means they pose more than just a casual nuisance — they can injure humans or become vectors of infection.
- The transport vehicle crash indicates a security breakdown, raising questions about how high-risk animals were contained and moved.
- With one monkey still unaccounted for, there is an ongoing risk period during which the animal might move through populated areas or interact with humans or other animals, possibly spreading pathogens.
Recommendations for the Public
- If you see an escaped primate matching the description — approximate size 40 lb, aggressive, likely in and around the Interstate 59 corridor in Jasper County, Mississippi — call the local sheriff’s office immediately ; do not attempt to approach or capture the animal.
- Avoid feeding or baiting wild animals in the area, especially game that may attract an escaped research primate.
- Stay away from forest edges or wooded areas adjacent to roadways where the animal might hide.
- If you suspect you’ve had contact or exposure — either direct or via another animal — seek medical attention and mention the incident to your healthcare provider.
