Three apes at the Jacksonville Zoo die from Shigella infections

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens has reported the death of three apes, one western lowland gorilla and two bonobos during the past week due to Shigella infections.

Six days ago, the zoo announced the death of Bulera, a 35-year-old female western lowland gorilla. A few days later, brother bonobos, Jumanji (born in 1996) and Jenga (born in 2011) also succumbed to the bacterial infection.

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Both bonobos had existing heart conditions, which made them more vulnerable to Shigella, zoo officials said.

Shigella is a bacteria that causes shigellosis, mainly affecting the intestines and causing symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, cramps and dehydration. The infection usually spreads through contact with feces, food or water and can be more severe in apes, as they may have a harder time fighting off the bacteria.

Zoo officials say although we may never know the exact source, the bacteria may have come from an asymptomatic ape or, though unlikely, a staff member.

Also unlikely is the possibility that the bacteria were introduced through food in an ape’s regular meal. 

Though the infection started with our gorillas, the infection spread to bonobos due to timesharing spaces, including the trail system and Kapok tree. As soon as symptoms were discovered, quarantine was put into place.

This infection only impacts primates, gorillas, bonobos and even humans. In humans, shigellosis usually causes mild symptoms that go away on their own. However, in apes, it can be much more serious as it can be harder for them to fight off the bacteria. Those with underlying conditions may be more susceptible.