Members of the gorilla troop at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19, the zoo confirmed Monday, adding that the animals are believed to have contracted the virus from an asymptotic staff member. This is said to be the first known case of such a transfer.
Two gorillas were observed coughing on Jan. 6, prompting California animal health and food safety lab researchers to test fecal samples, according to a news release published Monday. Preliminary results showed the presence of the virus, which was then confirmed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Laboratories.
It was not immediately clear how many gorillas tested positive for the virus. The news release also did not elaborate on whether the gorillas that tested positive were male or female, or any information regarding age.
The gorillas are doing well and quarantining with the rest of the gorilla troop, reads the news release.
The gorillas are said to do well except for a congestion and cough.
(Christina Simmons San Diego Zoo Safari Park)
“Apart from congestion and coughing, the gorillas are doing well.” Lisa Peterson, executive director of San Diego Zoo Safari Park, said in the news release. “The gang remains together in quarantine and eating and drinking. We are hopeful for a complete recovery.”
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It is not known whether the gorillas will suffer serious diseases from the virus.
“For almost one year, our team members have been working tirelessly, with the utmost determination to protect each other and wildlife in our care against this highly contagious virus,” Peterson said. “The safety of our staff and the wildlife in our care remains our top priority.”
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The safari park has been closed to the public since December 6 due to pandemic lock-in measures. San Diego County has seen 191,888 cases of coronavirus, according to public health data, including an additional 3,288 diseases reported Saturday.