Zoo in Hong Kong Reveals Cause of Mysterious Monkey Deaths as Toll Rises to 11
Hong Kong authorities have reported that the recent deaths of nine monkeys at a local zoo are likely due to a bacterial infection. The death toll has now increased to 11 after two more monkeys passed away over the weekend. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has announced plans to conduct a necropsy to determine if the deaths were all caused by the same infection.
The tragic events unfolded at a section of the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, which was closed on October 14 following the initial deaths. Among the deceased monkeys were members of an endangered species, sparking concerns about a potential disease outbreak. The authorities confirmed that the monkeys died of sepsis as a result of contracting melioidosis. Autopsies revealed the presence of melioidosis-inducing bacteria in their organs, likely originating from the soil in their habitat.
Kevin Yeung, Hong Kong’s culture and tourism minister, disclosed that workers who had been excavating soil near the monkeys’ enclosure may have inadvertently introduced contaminated soil into the cage on their shoes. The incubation period for the infection aligns with the timing of the digging work and the subsequent deaths of the animals. As a precautionary measure, the entire mammals section of the zoo has been cordoned off to prevent any potential contact between the animals and the public.
While the bacterium responsible for melioidosis is commonly found in Asia and the Pacific regions, where it typically inhabits soil and water, the authorities stated that the risk of transmission from animals to humans is low. Tests conducted on the monkeys for other viral infections such as Influenza A, Mpox, and Covid returned negative results.
Following the tragic incident, the zoo has decided to keep the mammals section closed temporarily and is closely monitoring the health of all animals. One De Brazza’s monkey, which was under observation since the initial deaths, is receiving medical treatment in isolation. Edwin Tsui, the health department controller, reassured the public that the infection is isolated to the zoo and should not cause undue alarm among residents.
Established in 1860, the Zoological and Botanical Gardens is the oldest park in Hong Kong, home to a diverse range of bird species, mammals, and reptiles. With approximately 40 enclosures housing 158 bird species, 93 mammals, and 21 reptiles, the park remains a popular destination for visitors seeking to connect with nature and wildlife in the heart of the city.