SD Gorillas Infected With COVID-19 Expected To Make Full Recovery

SAN DIEGO, CA — A group of gorillas at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park who were diagnosed with COVID-19 in early January are on their way to a full recovery, park officials announced.

Park officials said the gorillas are eating, drinking and interacting with each other following weeks of care from wildlife and veterinary professionals.

In a statement, the officials said the work done to provide the best care for the gorilla troop could contribute to a better understanding of how the virus affects animals and people.

Several gorillas tested positive for the new B.1.429 strain of the coronavirus on Jan. 11, which has been identified in California and which may be more contagious than other strains, officials said. The gorillas showed symptoms such as mild coughing, congestion, nasal discharge and intermittent lethargy.

There was special concern for the silverback gorilla Winston, who is older and has underlying medical conditions. Following a diagnostic exam under anesthesia, veterinarians confirmed Winston had pneumonia and heart disease. He was put on medication and a monoclonal antibody treatment that was not permitted for human use, and it's believed the antibodies may have contributed to Winston's ability to recover from the virus, officials said.

Veterinarians have also been provided a limited supply of vaccine intended for nonhuman use and are identifying animals to be vaccinated at the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.