India, lioness dies of Covid at the zoo: 8 other felines are positive

The dramatic wave of Covid-19 infections in India has also reached the Chennai Zoo, in the state of Tamil Nadu, where a lioness died and eight other lions tested positive for the coronavirus. At the moment it is not clear how the felines, guests of the Arignar Anna Zoological Park, became infected, closed to visitors on April 20 with the second wave of infections of the pandemic. Last week, staff noticed that the lions had lost their appetite, coughed and sneezed. Nine of the felines tested positive. Neela, a nine-year-old female, was virtually asymptomatic but died Thursday, the zoo said today. Two other older lions, aged 23 and 19, are being monitored closely and subjected to veterinary treatments. The zoo pointed out that all safety protocols had been followed. All staff are vaccinated, tested regularly and wear protective suits when in contact with animals. The food is also treated with ultraviolet rays.