Gorillas Test Positive For Coronavirus At SD Zoo Safari Park

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CA — Gorillas tested positive for the coronavirus at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, marking the first known natural transmission of the virus to great apes, zoo officials announced Monday.

On Wednesday, two of the gorillas began coughing, which prompted veterinarians to test fecal samples from the gorillas for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, through the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System. On Friday, the preliminary tests detected the presence of the virus. The U.S Department of Agriculture National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed the positive results Monday.

The test results confirm the presence of the virus in some of the gorillas, zoo officials said. The results did not definitively rule out the presence of the virus in other members of the troop.

Studies have verified that some non-human primates are susceptible to infection with SARS-CoV-2, but this is the first known instance of natural transmission to great apes, according to San Diego Zoo Global. It is unknown if they will have any serious reaction.

"Aside from some congestion and coughing, the gorillas are doing well," said Lisa Peterson, executive director of San Diego Zoo Safari Park. "The troop remains quarantined together and are eating and drinking. We are hopeful for a full recovery."

Zoo officials suspect the gorillas acquired the infection from an asymptomatic staff member, despite following all recommended precautions, including COVID-19 safety protocols such as wearing personal protective equipment when near the gorillas.

"For almost one year our team members have been working tirelessly, with the utmost determination to protect each other and the wildlife in our care from this highly contagious virus," Peterson said. "The safety of our staff and the wildlife in our care remains our number one priority."

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park has been closed to the public since Dec. 6.