Truck with Infected Lab Monkeys from Tulane University Crashes on I-59
Authorities are responding to an unusual incident involving a truck that crashed while transporting rhesus monkeys from Tulane University. The accident occurred on Interstate 59 near mile marker 117 on a Tuesday.
Details of the Incident
The truck was carrying monkeys that weigh approximately 40 pounds each. These animals are known to be aggressive toward humans, necessitating the use of personal protective equipment for safe handling. Concerns were raised not only about the handling of the monkeys but also about potential health risks.
University Involvement and Response
- Tulane University has been notified of the accident.
- A team of animal care experts is being dispatched to manage the situation.
- The monkeys are part of the Tulane National Biomedical Research Center and are typically supplied to various research institutions.
While the monkeys are not classified as infectious, precautions are being taken to ensure public safety. Local authorities are actively involved in the ongoing response and investigation.
Current Situation
According to Andrew Yang from Tulane University, if any of the primates flee the crash site, authorities have advised that they should be contained by any means necessary. Unfortunately, five monkeys have been shot and killed in the process. As of now, one monkey remains unaccounted for.
The incident highlights the complexities involved in transporting non-human primates, as well as the urgent need for safety protocols during such efforts.
