Zoological and Botanical Gardens Mammals section reopens after 12 monkey deaths in Oct

The Mammals Section of Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens (HKZBG), which previously closed after the deaths of 12 monkeys caused by bacterial infection, will reopen this Friday (Dec 13). 

The animal cages have been thoroughly disinfected and cleaned, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) said Wednesday, while bacterial tests for staff and the surrounding soil and water samples also showed negative results.

The LCSD said as the animals and staff taking care of them are in normal health conditions, it will reopen the Mammals Section of the HKZBG.

Environmental hygiene management measures and work guidelines will continue to be implemented in the Gardens to ensure safety, it added. 

Visitors are reminded to follow staff guidance and safety instructions, and should not touch, feed or throw anything to the animals. They are also reminded that those feeling unwell should not visit.

A total of 12 monkeys have died at the HKZBG since mid-October, 11 of which were confirmed to have died of sepsis from an infection of the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei.