Four lions at Barcelona Zoo have tested positive for COVID-19, according to zoo officials.
Three females named Zala, Nima, and Run Run and one male named Kiumbe were tested in November after keepers noticed they were showing flu symptoms, according to the BBC.
Two members of zoo staff also tested positive for the virus. It is believed the animals may have caught the disease after being in contact with an asymptomatic staff member, but an investigation is underway to determine how the lions became infected.
Zookeepers used a PCR swab test on the lions - a method which is also used for humans - because they're comfortable being close with staff.
The lions were showing upper respiratory symptoms, although most of these have disappeared now other than minor coughing and sneezing.
It's only the second known case where large felines have become infected with the virus, the first being at Bronx Zoo in New York. Four tigers and three lions tested positive for COVID-19 there back in April, and they have all since recovered.
Staff at Barcelona Zoo contacted their Bronx Zoo colleagues for advice since it is the only other known location of the infection in felines.
"The lions were given veterinary care for their mild clinical condition - similar to a very mild flu condition - through anti-inflammatory treatment and close monitoring, and the animals responded well," Barcelona Zoo said, per the BBC.
The four-year-old male and the females, who are all 16 years old, haven't had any contact with other animals in the zoo. The zoo is currently open to the public.
