Tiger tests positive for coronavirus at New York's Bronx Zoo

New York: A tiger in New York City has tested positive for coronavirus, according to a news release from the Wildlife Conservation Society's Bronx Zoo.

The four-year-old female Malayan tiger named Nadia, as well as three other tigers and three African lions, "developed a dry cough and all are expected to recover", the BBC reported.

Also Read: COVID-19: Summer Temperature Won’t Help Contain Coronavirus Transmission: WHO

"We tested the cat out of an abundance of caution and will ensure any knowledge we gain about COVID-19 will contribute to the world's continuing understanding of this novel coronavirus," the zoo said in a statement.

"Though they have experienced some decrease in appetite, the cats at the Bronx Zoo are otherwise doing well under veterinary care and are bright, alert, and interactive with their keepers."

The zoo said it is not known how the virus will develop in animals like tigers and lions since various species can react differently to new infections, but all the animals will be closely monitored.

There is "no evidence that any person has been infected with Covid-19 in the US by animals, including by pet dogs or cats," the zoo statement noted.

Also Read: COVID-19 Cases To Reach 1 Million In Next Few Days, Toll To Hit 50,000- WHO

The animals are believed to have been infected by a zookeeper. The zoo has been closed since mid-March.

(IANS)