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LA Zoo Takes New Precautions After A Tiger At The Bronx Zoo Catches COVID-19
Los Angeles Zoo staff is working to keep its animals safe during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Los Angeles Zoo is instituting additional safety measures for its cats after learning a tiger at the Bronx Zoo tested positive for COVID-19.
In a Sunday news release, L.A. Zoo officials said the new measures include using personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves, as well as practicing social distancing with the animals. They added, "The L.A. Zoo already practices these safety measures with our primate, binturong and mustelid species."
However, the zoo isn't currently testing any of its animals for COVID-19 since none have displayed symptoms of the virus, according to the release. This doesn’t rule out testing in the future but the decision to do that would be made in collaboration with public and animal health officials, officials said.
Currently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is not recommending regular testing of animals.
The tiger at the Bronx Zoo is believed to be the first animal in the U.S. to contract COVID-19. Public health officials believe a zoo employee spread the virus to the cat.
READ MORE:
- USDA Statement On The Confirmation Of COVID-19 In A Tiger In New York (USDA)
- COVID-19: Daily Life And Coping If You Have Animals (CDC)
- Bronx Zoo Tiger Is Sick With The Coronavirus (New York Times)
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