2 days ago
Little Rock Zoo's oldest elephant tests positive for tuberculosis
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Little Rock Zoo's oldest elephant has tested positive for tuberculosis following a routine exam.
The elephant's name is Zina and she was diagnosed after a trunk wash test showed that she was shedding the bacteria.
According to zoo officials, Zina is receiving treatment to stop bacterial shedding and prevent transmission to other animals.
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Staff will continue frequent monitoring and blood work during Zina's treatment, as the medication can be hard on her system.
Tuberculosis is a zoonotic disease but primarily affects humans and is commonly seen in older Asian elephants imported from Southeast Asia before the 1970, Zoo officials said.
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A spokesperson added that guests are not at risk due to the distance maintained between the animals and visitors.
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