Laboratory Monkey After Truck Accident In The US, Risk Of Virus Spread?

JAKARTA - Several laboratory monkeys suspected of being infected with various viruses escaped after a truck accident on a main highway in Mississippi, United States. This incident sparked concerns about public health risks.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 afternoon at Interstate 59, after a truck carrying rhesus-type monkeys capsized. According to an official statement from the Sheriff's Department ofturbation County, the monkeys were on their way from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Authorities say the animals may be infected with viruses such as hepatitis C and Covid-19, which could endanger residents' health in the event of direct contact.

Therefore, the public is asked not to approach or try to catch the monkey. Residents are also asked to report immediately if they see their whereabouts.

In the statement, it was also stated that these monkeys weigh about 18 kilograms and are aggressive towards humans. Handling these animals also requires special safety equipment.

According to local police reports, nearly all the runaway monkeys were destroyed on the same day. But one tail is still being searched.

"We continue to try to find one monkey that is still roaming around." said the sheriff, quoted from the NDTV page.

Rhesus monkeys are often used in scientific research because they have genetic similarities that are quite close to humans. Their population is also fairly stable due to their high reproductive rate, where most adult females give birth to at least one child every year.

Historically, rhesus monkeys have contributed greatly to the world of science. One example is Albert II, the first monkey sent into space by the United States in 1948. In addition, rhesus antigens also play an important role in the discovery of human blood types.

Currently the search for one remaining monkey is still ongoing, while authorities are continuing to monitor the situation to prevent potential risks to the public.