JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens said Wednesday that its apes are "doing well" after a deadly disease killed four beloved primates in the last few months.
In August, the zoo announced the death of three primates who died in the same week from the same highly contagious disease, Shigella.
A 35-year-old female western lowland gorilla named Bulera died from the effects of the disease, and two brother Bonobos named Jumanji and Jenga died days later. Then in September, the zoo's youngest gorilla, Kevin, died from Shigella.
Shigella is a bacteria infection that can spread through food, water or feces. Symptoms include diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting and dehydration.
Zoo officials announced Wednesday on social media that their Animal Health and Care teams have been closely monitoring the remaining apes' health, and are "cautiously optimistic" about their status regarding Shigella.
"While we continue to take all necessary precautions, we’re grateful for the support and understanding from our community during this time," the zoo wrote.
The zoo has not announced the source of the outbreak.
