Dehiwala zoo lion contracts COVID-19

A lion aged 11 at the Dehiwala Zoo was confirmed to have been infected with COVID-19, the Department of Zoological Gardens said today.

It said the lion that showed symptoms such as breathing issues and eating disorders was subject to an Antigen test where the result was negative.

However, a PCR test and some other tests confirmed that it was infected with COVID-19 virus. The infected lion was instructed to be removed and kept in a separate place.

The Department said they have obtained relevant advice and support from the Central Zoo Authority of India as it was a new experience for Sri Lanka.

The lion named ‘Thor’ has been brought to Sri Lanka from Seoul Grand Park Zoo in 2011.

Moreover, the department said a pygmy hippo and a Zebra died due to bacteria infection and obsteuction in the digestive tract respectively. It should be said that neither of them has died due to COVID-19 infection.

Meanwhile, Deputy Director General of Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath said a probe has been initiated in order to ascertain as to how the animal had contracted the virus and whether it was the COVID-19 virus that infected the lion.

The Health officials are also on alert on the lioness that too was not in good health. However, the other lions are currently in good health.

It was also reported that the workers who treated the lion have been sent for quarantine and PCR tests would be performed on them.

This reportedly the first such case where an animal contracted the virus in Sri Lanka. (Sheain Fernandopulle)

Pix by H.M. Dharmapala