Two gorillas at a zoo in California tested positive for COVID-19, which is believed to be the first known cases of the virus among great apes, officials said Monday.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park said the gorillas started coughing on Wednesday, asking officials to test their fecal samples, which came back positive for the coronavirus.
“Apart from congestion and coughing, the gorillas are doing well,” the zoo’s director Lisa Peterson said in a statement.
“The gang stays together in quarantine and eats and drinks,” Peterson said. “We are hopeful for a complete recovery.”
Officials believe the primates caught the virus from an asymptomatic staff member, “despite having complied with all recommended precautions,” the zoo said in a press release.
“This is the first known case of natural transmission to great apes and it is unknown whether they will have severe reaction,” the statement read.
In an update on the coronavirus pandemic Monday, California government Gavin Newsom said a third gorilla also exhibits symptoms of the disease.
“We are currently confirming the source of the infection and the strain,” Newsom said.
‘There is a question as to whether it came to man human. It is determined … ”he added.
The virus has also been found in cats, dogs, a lion and a tiger, as well as mink, which according to officials is by far the most susceptible animal.