Three apes at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens died from a shigella infection within a week. The first to die was 35-year-old Bulera, a female western lowland gorilla, followed by two brother bonobo monkeys named Jumanji and Jenga. Shigella is a bacterium that causes symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, cramps, and dehydration, and is usually spread through contact with feces, food, or water. The infection can be more severe in apes, who may have a harder time fighting it off. While the exact source of the infection is unknown, the zoo believes it could have come from an asymptomatic ape or a staff member, although the latter is deemed unlikely. The zoo has been taking steps to care for the sick apes, using personal protective equipment and regular sanitation to prevent further spread. Despite the efforts, Jumanji and Jenga, who had existing heart conditions, succumbed to the infection. The zoo expressed sadness over losing three primates in a week but remains optimistic about the recovery of the remaining sick apes, as they have seen significant progress thanks to the hard work of their staff. They continue to closely monitor the situation as shigella can have periods of improvement followed by relapse.
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