COVID-19 Found in a Cougar at a Wild Animal Exhibitor in Texas

The Department of Agriculture this week confirmed COVID-19 in a cougar at a wild animal exhibit in Texas. A tiger from the same facility was also confirmed positive for COVID-19. USDA says samples from several animals at the facility were taken after showing clinical signs, including coughing and wheezing. The animals are expected to fully recover. USDA suspects that the large cats acquired the infection from a person working as a team member or volunteer who was positive for COVID-19. Infections have been reported in a small number of animals worldwide, mostly in animals that had close contact with a person with COVID-19. USDA states, “We are still learning about SARS-CoV-2 in animals, but there is currently no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus to people.” However, it is important for people with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to avoid contact with pets and other animals to protect them from possible infection.