Zoo Negara takes measures to protect over 300 animal species

KUALA LUMPUR: Zoo Negara authorities have taken measures to ensure more than 300 animal species do not contract Covid-19.

Its veterinary director Dr Mat Naim Ramli said the movement of zoo keepers to the stables and cages had been reduced to four hours a day.

“Since the two or three human-to-animal transmission cases reported, precautionary measures have been taken, especially for those who are constantly exposed to animals or working in a zoo, ” he said.

On Monday, the international media reported that a Malayan tiger at New York’s Bronx Zoo tested positive for Covid-19 after having been exposed to a staff member who was Covid-19-positive although the worker showed no symptoms while caring for the animal.

In general, Mat Naim said there was a possibility that Covid-19 could spread from humans to animals if the patient had close contact with the animal.

However, he said so far there was no clear evidence that pet infections could spread to humans or other animals.

He said animals infected with Covid-19 may not show any symptoms or may just experience mild infection.

Mat Naim urged the public who kept pets at home, especially cats and dogs, not to panic and rush their pets to a veterinary clinic for health checks.

“There is no Covid-19 test kit for animals at veterinary clinics so it’s no use going there even if your dog or cat is found to have cough and flu symptoms.

“It is important to take care of your personal hygiene and wash your hands before and after handling your pets.

“Those who tested positive for Covid-19 need to stay away from others, including their pets, ” he said. — Bernama