Atlanta: Coronavirus attacks apes - 4th October 2021

Zoo Atlanta in the US, has announced that 13 of its gorillas have tested positive for Covid-19.

The great apes apparently caught the virus from a zookeeper, who was without symptoms, and who was wearing standard protective equipment while working.

Zoo staff were alerted when they noticed the gorillas were showing symptoms such as coughing, nasal discharge, and minor changes in appetite. After tests were carried out, officials confirmed the animals had contracted the virus.

A statement posted on the zoo's website says they are standing watch over the animals, paying careful attention to their needs. They are also ready to offer them further support if required.

One of the gorillas who tested positive is Ozzie, a male gorilla. He celebrated his 60th birthday in June, so keepers are paying close attention to him. He is thought to be the most at risk of Covid complications.

In February, San Diego Zoo announced that all eight of its gorillas, who had contracted Covid-19 a few weeks earlier, had made a full recovery. This includes Winston, a 49-year-old male.

Zoo Atlanta's gorillas live in close proximity to each other in four groups, which makes it impossible to isolate them individually. However, once they get over it, the apes will receive the Zoetis coronavirus vaccine, which is a jab developed for veterinary use.

The zoo will also be vaccinating its Bornean and Sumatran orangutans, Sumatran tigers, African lions, and clouded leopard, the statement said.

Sam Rivera, DVM, Senior Director of Animal Health, said: "[The gorillas] are receiving the best possible care." He added, "We are very concerned that these infections occurred, especially given that our safety protocols when working with great apes and other susceptible animal species are, and throughout the pandemic have been, extremely rigorous."