Srinagar : After Tiger tested positive for Covid-19 in New York USA, high alert sounded in all zoo’s across Jammu and Kashmir
In an order copy which lies with Kashmir Despatch reads, In view of the increased frequency of the COVID 19 cases reported in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly Kashmir Region, also in the wake of confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) in a Tiger housed in Bronx Zoo, New York USA, all the Zoos and wildlife areas have been kept under high alert to watch the animals on 2407 basis.
Mammals like carnivores especially leopards, leopard cats and primates are potential threat of spread of the infection amongst the wild animals in the forest areas also transmission from humans to wild animals and vice versa.
However, it has come to light that in spite of enforcement of complete lockdown in place, people living in the fringes of forest and wildlife areas venture into these areas for collection of fire wood, morels(gucchies) and other minor forest produce or even for recreational purposes.
It is advised that people in general and those living close to the forested and wildlife areas should refrain from moving into these areas thereby avoiding human-wildlife interface to prevent the possibility of transmission of this infection.
Therefore, these instructions are issued in the public interest for strict compliance the order copy reads.
