Program testing Arizona wildlife, zoo animals for COVID-19

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) — A brand new program is working with state and native wildlife officers to check wild animals for coronavirus.

TGen — also called the Translational Genomics Analysis Institute — says it has began testing animals in captivity and out within the wild for the virus that causes COVID-19. Crews are working with zoo vets, the Arizona Recreation and Fish Division, and the U.S. Division of Agriculture to conduct routine monitoring.

Officers say that as of Monday, there have been no optimistic instances of COVID. TGen provides that there isn’t a lot proof that animals can simply unfold COVID to people thus far. Nonetheless, they are saying surveillance is vital to assist monitor for future outbreaks and test on the unfold of different zoonotic illnesses.

Wild mammals equivalent to elk, skunks, coyotes, bobcats, deer, javelinas, and mountain lions are being examined alongside mammals usually held in captivity, like lions, bears, elephants, goats, and macaques. Well being consultants say that there isn’t a stable proof that birds, reptiles, and different animals can catch COVID.

Copyright 2022 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.