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NC Zoo animals will get 'uniquely formulated' vaccine to protect against coronavirus
The North Carolina Zoo will soon begin vaccinating its animals against coronavirus, starting with the chimpanzees and gorillas.
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By WCNC Charlotte
ASHEBORO, N.C. — The North Carolina Zoo will soon begin vaccinating its animals against coronavirus, starting with the chimpanzees and gorillas.
WCNC Charlotte reports the zoo will receive its first shipment of vaccine at the end of July for more than 20 primates. Like humans, each will get two doses. The zoo's primates will be the first to get their shots.
The special vaccine is developed by a company that produces medicine for animals, Dr. J.B. Minter told WRAL News.
Eventually, the zoo plans to vaccinate all big cats, bears, wolves and otters.
"As more research becomes available, we may consider other species," Minter said.
Several other zoos have already begun vaccinating their animals, including the Denver Zoo and the San Diego Zoo, which had several gorillas infected by the virus back in January, WCNC reports.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said animals are at risk of getting the virus.
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