A truck carrying lab monkeys from Tulane University overturned near Heidelberg, Mississippi, resulting in a major response from law enforcement agencies. The incident occurred around mile marker 117 on Interstate 59.
Response to the Incident
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department initially reported that the monkeys were carrying various dangerous, human-communicable viruses. However, Mike Strecker, assistant vice president for news and media relations at Tulane University, stated that this information is incorrect. He confirmed that the monkeys, used for research purposes, are not infectious.
Local Authorities’ Actions
- The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office has advised local residents to avoid the area.
- Officials reported that five monkeys escaped containment, while most remained in the truck.
- Subsequently, four of the missing monkeys were shot by authorities.
Law enforcement officials advised residents to contact 911 if they encountered any of the escaped monkeys. The Sheriff’s Office previously claimed that the monkeys were aggressive towards humans, a point underscored by a dispatch supervisor.
Collaborative Efforts
A large contingent of first responders, including the Mississippi Highway Patrol and local police departments, is actively monitoring the crash site to prevent further escape of the lab animals. Strecker emphasized that Tulane University is collaborating closely with local authorities and will send a team of animal care experts to assist as needed.
Miscommunication About Health Risks
- Reports indicated that the monkeys were infected with COVID-19, herpes, and hepatitis C.
- Tulane University refuted these claims, describing them as erroneous.
Strecker reiterated that the monkeys are not infected with any diseases and that their use in research is aimed at advancing scientific discovery. Initially, a Tulane team was expected to retrieve the animals the following day, but plans changed as the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks took charge of the situation.
This incident raises important questions regarding the safety protocols for transporting research animals. Awareness and communication are critical in ensuring the well-being of both the animals and the public.
