Ten Monkeys Die in Hong Kong Zoo Outbreak

Ten monkeys at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens have died due to an outbreak of melioidosis, a bacterial infection caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, which is found in soil and water. The deaths are suspected to be linked to contaminated soil from recent digging work for irrigation repairs near their enclosures. The first nine monkeys, including endangered species like cotton-top tamarins, died over two days after exhibiting unusual behavior, while a tenth monkey died later under similar circumstances. Officials indicated that the infection likely resulted from contact with contaminated shoes of park staff. The park has been partially closed as a precaution while necropsies are conducted to confirm the cause of death. While melioidosis can affect both animals and humans, officials have stated that there is generally no danger to humans from contact with infected animals.