Gorillas Test Positive For COVID-19 At San Diego Zoo

A group of gorillas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park have tested positive for the coronavirus. This is believed to be the first known cases among the species.

The park's executive director, Lisa Peterson, spoke to The Associated Press on Monday, January 11, informing them that eight gorillas that live together are believed to have COVID-19 and a few have been coughing.

According to AP, the infection appears to have come from a member of the park's wildlife care team who also tested positive for the virus. The member had been asymptomatic and wore a mask at all times around the gorillas.

The eight gorillas are being monitored closely by veterinarians. They are being given vitamins, fluid, and food but are not receiving any specific treatment for the virus.

"Aside from some congestion and coughing, the gorillas are doing well," said Peterson.

Zoo officials are also talking to coronavirus experts in case the gorillas develop more serious symptoms.

The zoo plans on sharing what it learns from these cases with health officials, scientists, and conservationists to develop ways to protect gorillas in Africa.

The park will keep the group together because separating them could be harmful to gorillas that live in tight-knit groups.

On Monday the park added additional safety measures for staff. They will now require face shields and eye goggles when working with the animals.

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