S’pore lions with Covid-19 serving SHN, swabbed while under anaesthesia

Singapore – “We are not recruiting for lion swabbers!” wrote Mandai Wildlife Reserve, following an update on the status of the Singapore lions infected with Covid-19.

On Tuesday (Nov 9), the Animal Veterinary Service (AVS) announced that four Asiatic lions in the Night Safari began coughing and sneezing and felt lethargic.

They were tested for Covid-19 and confirmed to have been infected with the virus after being exposed to Covid-19 positive staff from the Mandai Wildlife Group.

An African lion at the Singapore Zoo also showed similar symptoms and later tested positive for the virus.

AVS has ordered Mandai Wildlife Group to isolate all nine Asiatic lions and five African lions in their dens, including the ones already showing symptoms.

In an update on Thursday (Nov 11), the group confirmed that the lions are ok.

“Thanks for the many well wishes for our lions. Many of you have been curious, and we thought we’d give you answers to some of your burning questions,” the page noted.

The lions are looking “bright and alert,” said the group, adding that the animals also needed to serve their stay-home notices like everyone else.

“They are resting in their dens away from public areas and being monitored by their keepers and veterinarians.”

The lions have been given vitamins and supplements to speed up their recovery.

Responding to the condition of the animal care team, the group mentioned that they, too, were recovering well.

“Back at work, the keepers are taking extra steps like doing routine ART (Antigen Rapid Test) while continuing to keep masks on, wear gloves, practise safe distancing and good hygiene.”

When asked if other animals were also infected with Covid-19, the group said no other animals presently show symptoms.

The group added that transmission risk among wildlife remains low, with the virus contained within two lion prides housed separately at Singapore Zoo and Night Safari.

Members from the public also asked why animals weren’t getting vaccinated against the virus and how they were tested.

“Vaccinations for animals are unlike for humans, so we are being cautious!” noted Mandai Wildlife Group.

Regarding testing, the lions were swabbed “very carefully.”

“Initially, two lions were anaesthetized to conduct nasal and throat swabs. But we are now using their faeces for testing, which will suffice.”

At the end of their post, Mandai Wildlife Group wrote, “Also, we are not recruiting for lion swabbers!”

Although the lion exhibits are temporarily closed, visitors can still drop by to say hi to the other animals in the zoo./TISG

Read related: Lions Night Safari got Covid-19, likely from infected staff

Lions Night Safari got Covid-19, likely from infected staff