A group of monkeys have escaped from a laboratory at Meerut Medical College in Delhi India, taking blood samples of four patients who tested positive for COVID-19 along with them.
Dr. S. K. Garg, a top official at the college, told Reuters that, “monkeys grabbed and fled with the blood samples of four COVID-19 patients who are undergoing treatment,” and that the individuals had to take their blood samples again.
Before getting away, the monkeys allegedly attacked a lab technician, The Times of India reported.
According to reports, one monkey was seen chewing on a sample collection kit while sitting in a tree.
Superintendent Dheeraj Raj told AFP that the kits were later returned undamaged, adding that they “don’t think there is any risk of contamination or spread.”
Although there is no evidence suggesting that monkeys can contract COVID-19, there is fear that they might spread the virus around the city, potentially infecting its residents.
Delhi, India is still experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases, with over 17,000 confirmed and 398 deaths. India’s nationwide lockdown has been extended three times since it was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi back in March.
Photo: Reuters
