BAH said the team noticed lions, tigers and cougars showing symptoms earlier this month. Shortly thereafter, the veterinarian consulted with state animal health officials about testing for the coronavirus before the results were officially confirmed by the United States Department of Agriculture.
“This marks only the second confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2 in domestic animals or in captivity in the state,” said state veterinarian, Dr. Beth Thompson. “It is a good reminder that the virus can be transmitted from people to animals. We thank the state veterinarians who contacted our office to discuss testing and surveillance of exposed and symptomatic animals so that we can investigate with our state and federal partners. “
Although people with COVID-19 can spread the virus to animals during close contact, there is no evidence that animals can transmit the virus to humans, said state public health veterinarian Dr. Joni Scheftel. Still, the Minnesota Department of Health is working closely with The Wildcat Sanctuary – which is closed to the public – to monitor the situation.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have online resources available to anyone interested in COVID-19 and animals.