A Shigella infection that killed three apes at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in Florida poses “no threat to the public,” staff members said on Aug. 28.
“The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens remains a safe place for all of our visitors,” said Jeff Ettling, the zoo’s president and CEO, while delivering an update on the situation to the press.
The zoo first reported the death of Bulera, a 35-year-old female western lowland gorilla, on Aug. 23. Three days later, the deaths of brother bonobos Jumanji and Jenga were announced.
The source of the infection is unknown, though zoo staff say it may have originated from an asymptomatic ape or, less likely, a staff member.
Shigella bacteria cause shigellosis, an infection that mainly affects the intestines and can present symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and stomach pain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The bacteria can spread through contact with feces or contaminated food or water. The treatment process involves administering fluids and antibiotics.
While humans can contract the infection, it usually causes mild symptoms that will resolve on their own without antibiotics. For apes, on the other hand, the infection is “highly contagious” and difficult to treat, noted Tracy Fenn, the zoo’s curator of mammals.
Fenn told the press that apes are more susceptible than humans to gastrointestinal infections that can spread to other organs, and underlying health conditions may increase their risk.
Bulera, Jumanji, and Jenga each had existing cardiac diseases when they fell ill.
“The infection cannot be transmitted through casual contact, and all necessary precautions have been taken to protect our animals, staff, and visitors,” Fenn said, advising that the zoo has implemented strict health and sanitation protocols to contain the infection.
She also noted that several other apes who contracted the infection have since recovered, which has left staff “cautiously optimistic.”
“Shigella can ebb and flow,” Fenn said. “It can seem like it’s gone and then relapse, so we’re still monitoring even those animals who were sick and have recovered.”
The zoo’s recovery efforts are being aided by experts from fellow Association of Zoos and Aquarium institutions across the country.
Of the zoo’s 18 remaining apes, Fenn said “a handful” were receiving treatment for Shigella, including one undergoing an emergency procedure at the time of the press conference.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates to the public as needed,” Fenn said. “In the meantime, we appreciate your support and understanding during this challenging time.”
