This is the first known case of coronavirus in large onions, the zoo said, although previous research has shown that some non-human primates are susceptible. The gorillas live as a family, so it is assumed that all members have been open, zoo officials say.
It started last Wednesday, when two zoo gorillas started coughing. An initial in-house test showed the virus was present on Friday, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Medical Services Laboratory confirmed the positive results Monday.
It is not known if the gorillas will have any side effects, the zoo said, but they are being closely monitored.
“As well as a bit of congestion and coughing, the gorillas are doing well,” said Lisa Peterson, executive director, San Diego Zoo Safari Park. “The force is still quarantined together and eating and drinking. Hopefully we can get over it.”
San Diego Zoo has been closed to the public since early December.