Coronavirus: Tiger at Bronx Zoo tests positive for virus

NEW YORK — A tiger at the Bronx Zoo tested positive for the coronavirus.

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This is the first known infection in an animal or a tiger anywhere, The Associated Press reported.

It is believed Nadia, a 4-year-old Malayan tiger, was exposed to the virus by an employee at the zoo, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Several lions and tigers were showing symptoms of the virus March 27, but only the one tested positive. All of the big cats are expected to recover.

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The zoo has been closed to the public since about mid-March. Other animals in the zoo are not showing signs of the virus.

The zoo on Tuesday shared video on social media of the tigers enjoying a swim.

Agriculture officials are warning people infected with the coronavirus to avoid their pets, like they would other people.

“Anyone sick with COVID-19 should restrict contact with animals, out of an abundance of caution including pets, during their illness, just as they would with other people,” agriculture officials said in a statement. “Although there have not been reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.