A Tiger Has Tested Positive For COVID-19 In NYC Because 2020 Refuses To Quit

A tiger at a New York City zoo has tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19), marking a stunning development in our understanding of the virus and serving as proof that we should really just start 2020 from scratch.

AP reports that Nadia, a four-year-old Malayan tiger kept at the Bronx Zoo, was diagnosed after coming into contact with an asymptomatic zookeeper who previously tested positive for the virus.

It’s believed she is the first animal confirmed to have contracted the virus in the US, and definitely the first confirmed case of a tiger catching the illness.

Her handlers were moved to test the big cat after she exhibited a dry cough and wheezing, symptoms which have also been observed in six other big cats at the zoo. Those other animals haven’t been tested on account of it being really, really difficult to sedate and extract samples from a big cat, AP reports.

All seven cats are expected to recover, zoo officials said.

Speaking after the discovery, Dr Jane Rooney, a veterinarian and United States Department of Agriculture official, said there is no current evidence that animals are spreading the virus to people in America.

In their own statement, the Wildlife Conservation Society said there’s “no evidence that any person has been infected with Covid-19 in the US by animals, including by pet dogs or cats.”

The discovery of Nadia’s infection comes as New York State battles the virus, which has taken nearly 4,200 lives within its borders and more than 9,400 nationwide.

If you think you may have coronavirus, either call your doctor (DON’T visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. If you’re struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.

And please remember to wash your hands frequently (for at least 20 seconds) and keep at least 1.5 metres between you and those around you.

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