Two gorillas at a California zoo tested positive for COVID-19, in what is believed to be the first known case of the virus among large monkeys, officials said on Monday.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park said the gorillas started coughing on Wednesday, prompting authorities to test their fecal samples, which tested positive for the coronavirus.
“In addition to some congestion and cough, the gorillas are doing well,” said Lisa Peterson, the zoo’s director, in a statement.
“The troops remain in quarantine and are eating and drinking,” said Peterson. “We are hopeful of a full recovery.”
The authorities believe that the primates contracted the virus from an asymptomatic member of the team, “despite following all recommended precautions,” the zoo said in a press release.
“This is the first known case of natural transmission to great apes and it is not known whether they will have any serious reaction,” said the statement.
In an update on the coronavirus pandemic on Monday, California Governor Gavin Newsom said a third gorilla also had symptoms of the disease.
“At the moment, we are confirming the source of the infection and the strain,” said Newsom.
“There is some doubt whether it came from human to animal. This is being determined … ”, he added.
The virus has also been found in cats, dogs, a lion and a tiger, as well as in mink, which officials say is the most susceptible animal to date.