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

Scientists create tear organoids that cry, can treat eye disorders

Natalia Yuri April 4, 2021

These were created out of tear-producing cells

JCCF: Charges dropped against mom and kids fined $18k at border for expired PCR test

Anastasia Andric April 7, 2021

The family arrived at the border just two hours after the tests expired after encountering vehicle issues on their way home

Toronto owed over $550 million in fines

Anastasia Andric March 22, 2021

People owe approximately $552 million in fines to the City of Toronto. As first reported by BlogTO, many people have outstanding fines across the city.

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.