BENGALURU:
While the lockdown continues, Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) has initiated biosecurity measures as a precaution to control the spread of Covid-19.
BBP has started an awareness drive among all staff and food suppliers about coughing etiquette, hand sanitization and other ways to prevent the spread of the virus. Biosecurity signboards are displayed around the park.
All staff at BBP, including animal keepers, have been provided with face masks and gloves, regular temperature checks of all staff are being conducted before they can enter the zoo premises, and food is being checked for safety.
According to a senior BBP official, “Necessary fumigation is being carried out in and around the zoo along with foot dips at the entry and exit gates of all animal enclosures. Also, the carnivores, lesser carnivores and primates are being monitored for any abnormal signs such as coughing, nasal discharge, respiratory distress, diarrhoea, anorexia, nervous symptoms and fever. Staff, especially those are residing in cities, are encouraged to practise home quarantine.”
BBP claims that if any symptoms are observed, the higher authority will be informed and samples will be collected as per WHO/OIE/ICMR guidelines. Animal keepers of specific animals have been instructed not to visit other animal enclosures.
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