Public Notice
Taronga Zoo update re chimp TB infection
Thursday 8 December 2011
Taronga Zoo wishes to reassure the public that extensive testing has found there are no animals or staff at Taronga Zoo currently identified with infectious tuberculosis.
After the discovery of a chimp with tuberculosis infection in September 2011, Taronga Zoo moved quickly to ensure the wellbeing and safety of the zoo’s guests, staff and animals.
A working group including representatives from NSW Health has advised there is no ongoing risk of being exposed to tuberculosis by visiting the zoo.
Update on chimp Tuberculosis (TB) infection
Wednesday 23rd November 2011
A media story on 19th November reported the discovery of a TB infection in a chimp at Taronga. That animal was humanely euthanased in September due to more generalised health issues.
Please be assured that extensive testing has found that there are no animals or staff at Taronga identified with infectious TB.
NSW Health authorities have advised that there is no ongoing risk of getting TB by visiting the zoo.
The wellbeing and safety of the zoo's guests, staff and animals is our highest priority.
Update on investigations of infection found in chimp
Wednesday 16th November 2011
An expert Working Group from NSW Health and Taronga Zoo has been conducting investigations into the discovery in September of a tuberculosis (TB) infection in a chimp at the zoo. Confirmation that it was the same type of infection as found in an Asian Elephant last year has guided their investigation to try to identify plausible pathways for transfer. This has involved testing of staff and contractors, as well as checking for any common equipment, food matter or soil. No link has been found to date.
As a precaution the chimp group have all been placed on an antibiotic treatment and the elephant, which has been treated for over a year, is in excellent health.
The Working Group met again last week and reconfirmed that there is no increased risk to visitors to the zoo.
No other animals have been found to have the infection.
Update on infection found in chimpanzee
Friday 7th October 2011
As a result of routine health testing of its animals, Taronga Zoo announced the discovery of a tuberculosis (TB) infection in one of its chimpanzees in September.
Chimp Checks Continue
Friday 16th September 2011
Taronga’s chimpanzees are completing health screening in their exhibit.
Media Contact
Taronga Zoo, Media Relations
Phone:
(02) 9978 4606
Email:
tzpr@zoo.nsw.gov.au
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Media Relations
Phone:
(02) 6881 1400
Email:
wpz@zoo.nsw.gov.au
Note: For all other enquiries please see the Contact Us page.
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