Tigers, bears, pumas: a California zoo vaccinates its animals against the coronavirus

Sylvie Claire / July 3, 2021

The Oakland Zoo in California has begun vaccinating animals such as tigers, bears, mountain lions and ferrets against coronavirus. According to the zoo, the experimental vaccine from U.S. manufacturer Zoetis will also be administered to monkeys, fruit bats and pigs.

Until now, corona measures at the zoo included keeping a safe distance and protective clothing for employees. Veterinarian Alex Herman says he is relieved that the animals can now be better protected against Covid-19. The animal health organization Zoetis hopes to donate 11,000 doses of vaccine to nearly 70 zoos and other facilities in the United States.

The first great apes were vaccinated with the drug developed for the animals at the San Diego Zoo in March. They received a second dose after three weeks. Eight gorillas at the zoo tested positive for the virus in January. Symptoms were mild and limited to coughing, constipation and fatigue. The animals have now fully recovered. They were likely infected by an infected employee who did not show any symptoms, despite the safety measures that had been taken.