Two Pittsburgh Zoo Lions Contract COVID-19

PITTSBURGH, PA — Two female lions at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium have tested positive for the coronavirus, zoo officials said on Thursday.

The lions likely were infected after being exposed to an asymptomatic zoo employee.

Both lions experienced coughing and diarrhea but were otherwise normal. The zoo's four other lions were tested and found to be healthy.

Zoo president CEO and president Barbara Baker said in a statement there was no reason zoo visitors should be concerned.

"The risk of infection between zoo animals and guests is very low, as we do not allow any of our visitors to come within close proximity to any of our cats," she said.