Kathmandu, July 3. The Oakland Zoo in the United States on Friday vaccinated some of its animals against COVID-19 using an experimental vaccine designed for animals.

Vice president at the veterinary services, Alex Herman informed San Francisco Chronicle that animals including tigers, black bears, and mountain lions were shortlisted on the basis of their unique vulnerability for contracting the deadly infection.

Herman also confirmed that none of the animals at the Zoo contracted the virus. 

“Those are real cases where animals have become mildly sick, gravely ill, or even died, and that’s why we’re being so proactive,” Herman noted.

Animal Vaccine

The experimental vaccine was developed by animal health company Zoetis, the world’s largest drugmaker for pets and livestock. 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and state veterinarians have approved the vaccine for experimental usage on a case-by-case basis.

On Tuesday, the Oakland Zoo got its first shipment of 100 doses of the experimental vaccine. 

The company announced that it is donating more than 11,000 doses of the experimental vaccine to nearly 70 zoos, conservatories, sanctuaries, academic institutions and government organizations in 27 states.

The company also confirmed that the vaccine is suitable for more than 100 mammal species.