A tiger from the Bronx Zoo in New York tested positive for the coronavirus test. This was announced by the Wildlife Conservation Society foundation which works all over the world on projects aimed at protecting natural life. The swab results were confirmed by the National Veterinary Service.
The Malayan tiger is called Nadia, is 4 years old and is the first animal to be infected in the USA. Under observation also three other tigers (the sister Azul and two specimens of Siberian tiger) and three African lions housed in the same structure: all showed symptoms similar to those of Nadia, starting with a dry cough and a growing lack of appetite, explain the experts. Suspicions about who could transmit the virus to the feline fall on a member of the Bronx Zoo staff responsible for the care of large animals, initially asymptomatic but who recently showed some breathing difficulties related to the presence of Covid-19.
Nadia's problems started around March 27 and now the animal is receiving appropriate treatments. There is no fear for his life and the vets' forecasts are for a speedy recovery. No tests have been carried out on the other animals under observation because in felines it is necessary to resort to general anesthesia which involves many risks for their life.
At the moment there is no evidence that big cats, other exotic animals or even pets can transmit the virus and infect a human being. However, the managers of the Bronx Zoo have clarified, "adequate preventive measures" have been put in place for all the staff that takes care of the animals housed in the large 107-hectare structure built in 1899. Measures also aimed at protecting the other animals present . No danger for the public, however, as the zoo, like the other zoos in New York (including the one inside Manhattan's Central Park) has been closed since March 16 due to the pandemic.
The US Department of Agriculture has therefore reassured that there is no risk to anyone.
