We’re sorry to announce that the Chimpanzee platform at Monarto Safari Park will be closed until further notice. Unfortunately, after testing for a comprehensive range of respiratory viruses, we have determined that the chimps have come down with Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Chimpanzees (and other Primates) are susceptible to coughs and colds and even COVID-19 so as soon as we noticed they had cold-like symptoms, we were quick to take samples. The results of the swabs came back late last night showing that the troop was suffering from RSV. The troop currently has coughs and runny noses and is being monitored closely.
RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia among infants under 1 year of age. RSV is spread when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes small droplets containing infectious agents into the air. The droplets in the air may be breathed in by those nearby. Infection may be spread by contact with hands, tissues and other articles soiled by infected nose and throat discharges. The virus survives outside of the body for a few hours and is easily killed by soap and water or disinfectants.
The keepers and life sciences team who care for the troop will continue to wear full PPE. As Chimpanzees and primates (as well as other species) are susceptible to COVID, our team was already wearing PPE when working in close proximity to the troop.
We are sure that like us, you will wish the Chimpanzee troop a speedy recovery. We will keep you updated with any news when there is more to share.
In the meantime, please continue to help us support Chimpanzee conservation by recycling your mobile phones – drop off locations are located at the Monarto Safari Park retail shop and at the entrance to Adelaide Zoo. By recycling your old phones you will be conserving natural resources, reducing the need to mine and protecting the environment.
Some donated phones will also be refurbished and reused, providing communication to people who cannot afford phones. Others will be dismantled and their compartments reused in other technology, ensuring minimal waste.
When you donate your unused phones to Zoos SA, the funds generated through recycling directly supports on-ground work with Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and the Jane Goodall Institute Australia.
If you would like to send a get well card to the chimps, take part in our colouring-in competition for your chance to win a chimp prize pack worth over $200. Send in your artwork to [email protected] by Sunday 24 July. The pictures will be printed by our chimp keepers and hung up for the troop to see!
Thank you for your well wishes.
