The cats were infected by a caretaker who had COVID-19 but was asymptomatic, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society. They don't yet know how the virus develops or affects big cats. The zoo has implemented preventative measures to prevent exposure in other cats. Nadia was tested out of "an abundance of caution" after symptoms started on March 27, the zoo said, and it hopes that any information gained will contribute to the world's understanding of the virus, which has infected more than a million people around the world.
There is no evidence that animals can spread COVID-19 to people, the USDA said in a statement, but the CDC is recommending that people with the virus avoid contact with pets and other animals.