Zoo Negara authorities have taken measures to ensure more than 300 animal species do not contract the COVID-19.
Zoo Negara veterinary director, Dr Mat Naim Ramli said the movement of zoo keepers to the stables and cages have been reduced to four hours a day.
"Since there have been two to three human-to-animal transmission cases reported, precautionary measures have been taken especially for those who are constantly exposed to animals or working in a zoo," he told Bernama today.
Yesterday, the international media reported that a Malayan tiger at New York's Bronx Zoo tested positive for COVID-19 after having been exposed to a staff who was COVID-19 positive although the worker showed no symptoms while caring for the animal.
In general, he said there was a possibility that COVID-19 could spread from humans to animals if the patient had close contact with the animal and added that so far there has been no clear evidence that pet infections can spread to humans or other animals.
Dr Mat Naim said animals infected with COVID-19 may not show any symptoms of infection or may experience mild infection.
He urged the public who kept pets at home especially cats and dogs not to panic and rush their pets to a veterinary clinic for health checks.
"There is no COVID-19 test kit for animals at veterinary clinics so it's no use going there even if your dog or cat is found to have cough and flu symptoms.
"It is important to take care of your personal hygiene and wash your hands before and after handling your pets," he said.
Those who are tested positive for COVID-19 need to stay away from others including their pets," he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Mat Naim said he welcomed the public's contributions, especially animal food and zoo cleaning equipment.
"So far we have collected RM200,000 in donations from various parties and the public but we still need contributions in the form of vegetables and fruits for the more than 300 animals at Zoo Negara.
"Those keen on donating animal feed and zoo cleaning equipment such as garbage bags, brooms, rakes and so on can call 03-41083422 for more information," he said.
-- BERNAMA
Bernama
Tue Apr 07 2020
Zoo Negara veterinary director, Dr Mat Naim Ramli said the movement of zoo keepers to the stables and cages have been reduced to four hours a day. - Filepic
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.