Tiger Tests Positive For Coronavirus In New York Zoo

A tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York became the first of its kind to test positive for the coronavirus.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) revealed this in a statement posted on its official website on Sunday.

The 4-year-old Malaysian tiger, called Nadia, tested positive after showing symptoms of respiratory disease.

“This is the first instance of a tiger being infected with COVID-19. Samples of this tiger were taken and tested after several lions and tigers at the zoo showed symptoms of respiratory disease.

Public health officials believe that these big cats became ill after being exposed to a zoo worker who was actively releasing viruses. The zoo has been closed to the public since mid-March, and the first tiger started showing signs of illness on March 27.

Six other big cats, including Nadia’s sister, two Siberian tigers and three African lions, also showed symptoms of the disease, although they have not been tested.

Bronx zoo officials are positive about the recovery of the cats.

“All of these big cats must recover. There is no evidence that other animals in other areas of the zoo are showing symptoms.

“Although they have experienced some decrease in appetite, the cats at the Bronx Zoo are doing well under veterinary care and are bright, alert and interactive with their breeders,” said the zoo.

Employees have warned anyone who is sick with COVID-19 to restrict contact with animals, including pets, as they would with other people.