Over 40 rhesus monkeys recently escaped from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, South Carolina, prompting a search by local authorities and lab personnel. While the public has been advised to secure their homes and avoid contact, authorities assure there’s no immediate health risk.
The Yemassee Police Department announced the escape on Facebook. The monkeys, all young females weighing approximately six pounds, managed to break free from the Alpha Genesis facility, a center specializing in nonhuman primate research services. As of the latest update, none of the 43 escaped macaques have been recaptured.
Although Alpha Genesis is known for its research on progressive brain disorders using primates, these particular monkeys are too young to have been involved in any studies. The police have confirmed that these escaped animals pose no health risk, as they haven’t been exposed to any research-related procedures or diseases. However, they caution against any interaction with the monkeys.
“Residents are strongly advised to keep doors and windows secured to prevent these animals from entering homes,” the department stated. “If you spot any of the escaped animals, please contact 911 immediately and refrain from approaching them.”
This incident isn’t the first escape from the Alpha Genesis Primate Center. Reports indicate multiple escapes since 2014, resulting in several violations issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. These violations relate to escapes and other incidents recorded between 2014 and 2016.
Currently, the Yemassee police are collaborating with the local sheriff’s office, state agricultural and wildlife officials, and Alpha Genesis staff to recapture the monkeys. They are employing traps and thermal imaging technology in their search efforts.
