The bioterror bacteria that is found in soil and water has been released from a high-security laboratory at the Tulane National Primate Research Center near New Orleans. Local authorities have reported that another monkey has been exposed to the deadly bacteria, taking the total to five. Despite carrying out a number of infection tests by multiple federal and state agencies, the exact cause of the release and the extent of contamination remains unknown.

Preliminary tests unveiled that the monkey, a rhesus macaque known as IL88, has a possible infection with Burkholderia pseudomallei. The bacterium was being used in vaccine development research at a different primate center's 500-acre campus in Covington.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has done a confirmation tests and its results are expected later this week and early next week, affirmed Tulane spokesman Michael Strecker.

In recent weeks, this is the fifth macaque to be confirmed tested positive. The monkey was in the facility's veterinary hospital around the same time late last year. As per authorities concerned, the facility is the leading suspect where the primates were exposed to the bacteria.

The bacteria could have been safely contained in the laboratory located in other building on the campus. Research with the bacteria has been stopped till the time investigation is taking place. The CDC affirmed that there is no risk to public health.

The bacteria can lead to a potentially fatal disease called melioidosis in humans and animals and its symptoms can range from fever, headache and joint pain. Louisiana state officials raised concerns that the bacteria might have contaminated the facility's grounds. Some officials have been asking for more actions.

Two of the animals became ill in November and they used to live in larger outdoor cages. Ultimately, they had to be euthanized. And, two other macaques never showed signs of illness and were in the hospital around the same time due to the injuries.