The following measures are being adopted @Mysuruzoo for COVID-19, being in the midst of urban landscape based on 2017 bird flu experience. Now other zoos have been instructed to adopt the same measures by Mr B.P.Ravi , Member Secretary, Zoo Authority of Karnataka. Further, necessary PPE kits, masks, medicines are being procured for the Zoo.
1. The Zoo is closed for visitors since 15.3.20.
2. Our biosecurity measures were in place even before COVID 19 and have upgraded further in the last 1.5 months.
3. Our practice of minimal contact with keepers and no contact with visitors is an added advantage.
4. We have made our staff to understand the situation, precautions to be taken and practice social distancing.
5. Checking the body temperature of everyone every day and allow only those persons whose temperature is within limits.
6. Medicated mat at the entrance gate and everyone has to pass over it.
7. Hand sanitizer at the entrance which everyone has to use.
8. Medicated foot mat, Hand wash, hand sanitizers, masks, gloves (for every keeper) and boots (for every keeper) at every animal enclosure and every keeper has to use it.
7. Keepers cannot go to the other animals section.
8. Social Distancing is enforced.
9. Animals are being closely monitored by keepers, supervisors, vets and other officers while adopting social distancing with animals as well. If needed spotting scopes, binoculars, and cc cameras are used.
10. It is ensured that all vehicles carrying food materials pass through sanitizer trough, wheels are sanitized using antimicrobial solutions.
11. It is ensured that all staff of the contractor supplying food wear masks and hands are sanitized.
12. The entire zoo area is sprayed with sanitizers and areas frequented by food suppliers are sanitized daily.
13. We are ensuring that people in the food supply wing are also wearing masks, hands, tools, and vehicles that are sanitized.
14. Food supply vehicles are sanitized every day,
15. Beef is certified for quality by Corporation Vet and zoo vets. Fodder and other feed items (fish, eggs, grains etc) are checked and certified by zoo vets for quality. Dressed beef is washed with hot water before distributing,
16. Entire zoo area is sanitized,
17. any positive case in the village or area from where our keepers come, such keepers are being asked to follow home quarantine strictly. I have requested them to let us know if any assistance is required in coordinating with dist health authorities.
18. There is social distancing is in place, the staff is not assembling during tea time or lunchtime.
19. staff involved with visitor management are on leave, we are working with 50% staff.
20. Staff is advised and motivated by officers, as and when they come across on a daily basis
21. Officers interacting mostly over mobile phones.
22. As of now, things are under control.
