At the Bronx Zoo in New York City, a tiger has tested positive for the coronavirus. Six other big cats are expressing similar symptoms consistent with the illness. It is likely that the tiger contracted the virus from an asymptomatic zookeeper. Paul Calle, the chief veterinarian at the Bronx Zoo mentions, “It’s the first time, to our knowledge, that a [wild] animal has gotten sick from COVID-19 from a person.”
The four-year-old Malaysian tiger, Nadia, developed a dry cough in late March and was tested for the virus on April 2. Nadia’s sister, two Siberian tigers, and three African lions, also showed symptoms of dry cough and loss of appetite, but have not been tested yet. Zookeepers now have to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when coming in contact with the animals.
The four-year-old Malaysian tiger, Nadia, developed a dry cough in late March, and was tested for the virus on April 2. Nadia’s sister, two Siberian tigers, and three African lions, also showed symptoms of dry cough and loss of appetite, but have not been tested yet. Zookeepers now have to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when coming in contact with the animals.
Outside of the zoo, several domestic animals, including a Pomeranian, a German Shepard in Hong Kong, and a cat in Germany. So, make sure to practice social-distancing with your pets!