Nine monkeys at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens passed away due to melioidosis, a severe infection that led to sepsis, as per officials’ statement on Friday. The zoo has closed part of its premises since Monday following the deaths of eight monkeys, including three endangered cotton-top tamarins. Another monkey died later, while one was moved for observation.
Autopsies on the deceased monkeys revealed a high concentration of the bacteria that causes melioidosis in their organs. The culture and tourism minister, Kevin Yeung, suggested that the bacteria might have entered the monkeys’ habitat through contaminated soil brought in by workers during recent maintenance work near the area.
Melioidosis-inducing bacteria are commonly found in moist clay soil and can affect both animals and humans. Despite the incident, Yeung clarified that there is no need to close the entire facility to the public. The affected cages have undergone thorough cleansing and disinfection measures to eliminate the bacteria.
To prevent any potential spread of the disease, the mammals’ section of the zoo has been cordoned off, ensuring no contact between visitors and animals. Staff members have been provided with protective gear, and those who had contact with the monkeys tested negative for the bacterium.
Thomas Sit, the assistant director of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Conservation, noted that the affected monkeys displayed symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, and abnormal behavior before succumbing to the illness within two days. Despite immediate veterinary care, the infected monkeys could not be saved, prompting post-mortem examinations and isolation to contain the disease.
The facility has been instructed to enhance its cleaning procedures, while staff are reminded to maintain proper hygiene practices to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. Infectious disease expert Wilson Lam explained that the bacteria usually reside deep in the soil, making direct contact with humans and animals unlikely.
However, disturbances to the soil through digging activities can bring the bacteria to the surface, increasing the risk of exposure for animals like the monkeys. Lam recommended temporarily closing the affected area to ensure the environment is safe, as the bacteria may still be present. He reassured the public that the chances of contracting the disease from monkeys are minimal, emphasizing the importance of monitoring the soil and park environment for any lingering bacteria.
In conclusion, the zoo is taking proactive measures to address the melioidosis outbreak among the monkeys, focusing on thorough cleaning, staff protection, and ongoing monitoring of the environment to prevent further incidents. Public health remains a top priority, with experts closely monitoring the situation to safeguard both animal and human well-being.
