Lion at Dehiwala Zoo tests COVID positive; Immediate treatment being provided

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan authorities are providing treatment and care to a lion at the Dehiwala National Zoo as it is believed the lion had contracted the coronavirus.

State Minister Wimalaweera Dissanayake speaking to News 1st said the lion was subject to 02 PCR tests and one returned COVID-19 positive and the other as COVID-19 negative.

However, as the lion continues to show symptoms it was moved to a separate enclosure where it is being provided treatment with assistance obtained from India.

Deputy Director-General of Public Health Services Dr. Hemantha Herath speaking to News 1st said an investigation is taking place to determine how the lion contracted the virus and if others were infected.