Big cats at the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington are not doing well!
The zoo officials said that six African Lions, a Sumatran tiger, and two Amur tigers have preliminarily tested positive for Covid-19 while final results are set to be made public in a few days.
Staff noticed that the animals became recently lethargic, coughing, sneezing, and reluctant to eat and conducted tests.
“All lions and tigers are being treated with anti-inflammatories and anti-nausea medication to address discomfort and decreased appetite,” a statement said.
“In addition, all are being treated with antibiotics for presumptive secondary bacterial pneumonia.”
The zoo had since investigated all employees who had come close to the animals’ enclosures or interacted with them but they remain uncertain regarding the contamination origin.
