E. Coli was found in the droppings of two goats from the Smithsonian National Zoo in Washington, D.C. on February 18th during a routine test for the potentially lethal bacteria. The two goats were quarantined, and all animals were subsequently tested on February 22nd. By February 26th, four goats and a cow tested positive for E. Coli, leading to the closure of the “Kid’s Farm” exhibit at the zoo.
E. Coli lives in its host’s intestines. Unlike most intestinal bacteria, some strains of E. Coli are harmful and can lead to sickness or even death. Children and adults with weak immune systems are at the greatest risk for developing an infection. Luckily, no staff members at the zoo have become infected so far.
While thankfully no one was harmed, the idea of getting such a harmful infection from simply going to the zoo is frightening. “Little kids go to the zoo. It’s very scary to think that they could have been at risk” said WHHS junior Jennifer Cuciti.
The zoo may remain closed for at least a month, as zoo keepers are waiting for the animals’ antibiotic treatments to take effect. The zoo will not reopen until the animals test negative for E. Coli.