COLOMBO (News 1st): A decision has been reached to conduct COVID-19 Antigen Tests on all animals at Zoological gardens in the country, the Ministry of Wildlife and Conservation said.

“Instructions were issued to obtain the required Antigen Test Kits in this regard. If the infected animals are not treated soon after contracting the virus, it is difficult for them to recover,” C.B. Ratnayake, the Minister of Wildlife and Conservation told News 1st on Wednesday (Jun. 30).

According to the Minister, the Lion at the Dehiwal Zoo had contracted the virus from within the zoo, while the Lioness also became infected with the virus later.

All animals at the Ridiyagama Safari Park, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and the Dehiwala Zoo will be subjected to the COVID-19 Antigen Test, Minister C.B. Ratnayake noted.

• Treasury releases funds to open LCs, State Minister assures no medicine shortage
• Former CID Chief goes to court against PCoI on Political Victimization
• Borella Grenade Probe: Suspect provides closed door statement for over an hour
• Fertilizer subsidy for tea plantations
• Free life insurance scheme for artists, introduced