Residents in a Mississippi town have been cautioned about three monkeys that have escaped and are roaming freely. Initially reported to be carrying infectious diseases like hepatitis C, herpes, and Covid-19, locals are advised to avoid contact with the monkeys and contact authorities if spotted.
The incident occurred when a vehicle transporting the monkeys overturned on a highway near Heidelberg. While Tulane University officials stated the monkeys were not infectious, Sheriff Randy Johnson mentioned the need to “neutralize” them due to their aggressive behavior.
Despite some monkeys being euthanized, three managed to escape and are currently at large. The primates were housed at Tulane University National Biomedical Research Center, which supplies them to research organizations. The exact number and whereabouts of the monkeys remain unknown.
Footage captured the monkeys roaming near the highway with scattered crates labeled “live animals.” Efforts are underway to locate the missing monkeys, with the rest being transported back to Louisiana. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the accident.
Rhesus monkeys, widely used in medical research, are now roaming the countryside north of Jackson. Authorities urge the public not to approach them and to report any sightings. The Mississippi highway patrol is actively investigating the incident.
