DENVER — The Denver Zoo announced Monday morning that 11 African lions tested positive for COVID-19 after their keepers observed coughing, sneezing, lethargy, and nasal discharge.
According to a news release from the zoo, when their keepers saw them presenting symptoms they were taken to Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Fort Collins. Each of the lions was given a nasal swab sample, which all tested positive.
The lions range in ages one to nine, according to the zoo. These lions are part of two African lion prides at the zoo.
> Above is a video: Two tigers are first animals at Denver Zoo to test positive for COVID-19.
These are not the first animals to test positive at the Denver Zoo. The zoo announced back on Oct. 14 that two tigers tested positive for the virus. The zoo said the two outbreaks don't appear to be related.
None of the lions have been vaccinated against COVID-19, according to the zoo. However, the zoo did say that their veterinarians have plans to vaccinate them and the tigers as soon as they can get the animal-specific Zoetis vaccine.
The zoo said it will continue to take extensive safety measures to keep guests, animals and employees protected from COVID-19.
Updates on the 11 lions and two tigers who tested positive for COVID-19 can be found on the zoo's website.
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