Het Nieuwsblad: two hippos at Antwerp Zoo in Belgium tested positive for coronavirus
Two hippos at the Antwerp Zoo in Belgium have been diagnosed with the coronavirus. This was reported by the newspaper Het Nieuwsblad.
Animals named Imani and Hermien developed a runny nose, after which the veterinarians took tests from them. It is not yet clear why the hippos got sick, the zoo followed strict sanitary measures, and the employees were not infected.
“As far as I know, this is the first time with this species. Globally, this virus is mainly registered in apes and felines, ”said a veterinarian who took samples from hippos.
Currently, the animals are doing well, but they are isolated. In addition to masks and shoe disinfection, employees wear safety goggles, avoid contact with other animals, and take a rapid test daily. Until a negative result for coronavirus, the aviary will be closed to visitors.
Earlier, the inhabitants of New England zoos in the northeastern United States began to vaccinate against COVID-19. Not a single infected animal was found on the territory, but the administration of the institution decided to inoculate them with Zoetis as a prophylaxis.
