Gorillas Infected with Coronavirus in California

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories announced on January 11, 2021, confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 virus infections in three gorillas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in California. These are the first gorillas in the USA to be confirmed positive for the new coronavirus.

The gorillas, who live in a troop of eight, are expected to recover, says Lisa Peterson, executive director of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

'We are still learning about SARS-CoV-2 in animals, but there is currently no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus to people. Based on the information available, the risk of animals spreading the virus to people is considered 'to below,' stated this USDA press release.

However, people can spread the virus to animals during close contact, says the U.S. CDC. People suspected of SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 should avoid contact with animals, including pets, livestock, and wildlife.