Discovery

The San Diego-based orangutan, named Karen, made medical history by receiving the first COVID-19 experimental vaccine for animals

An orangutan named Karen has made US history after receiving the first COVID-19 experimental vaccine for animals developed by veterinary pharmaceutical company Zoetis.

By Anastasia Andric

March 4, 2021
at 5:30 PM

An orangutan from a San Diego Zoo has made medical history. Karen received a COVID-19 experimental vaccine designed for animals, making her one of the first great apes to do so. This is the second time Karen has made history. In 1994, she was the first orangutan in the world to receive open-heart surgery. The vaccine was developed by the veterinary pharmaceutical company Zoetis but is not suitable for humans. Around the world, it has been confirmed that various animals have been infected with COVID-19, including tigers, lions, minks, snow leopards, cougars, ferrets, dogs, and domestic cats; however, this information cannot be verified. There is still limited information on how the virus affects animals.

ORIGINAL SOURCE

Anastasia Andric

Anastasia is a curious and enthusiastic storyteller, with a degree in Journalism from Ryerson University. She has a love for the news and is passionate about reporting on issues that matter. She is dedicated to informing the public with accurate, timely, and relevant news. She is not afraid to dig deep and ask the tough questions to get to the real story.