Epidemiol. Infect. (2013), 141, 1488–1497. © Cambridge University Press 2013
doi:10.1017/S095026881300068X

Transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis from an Asian
elephant (Elephas maximus) to a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)
and humans in an Australian zoo

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is primarily a pathogen of humans. Infections have been reported
in animal species and it is emerging as a significant disease of elephants in the care of humans.
With the close association between humans and animals, transmission can occur. In November
2010, a clinically healthy Asian elephant in an Australian zoo was found to be shedding
M. tuberculosis; in September 2011, a sick chimpanzee at the same zoo was diagnosed with
tuberculosis caused by an indistinguishable strain of M. tuberculosis. Investigations included staff
and animal screening. Four staff had tuberculin skin test conversions associated with spending at
least 10 hours within the elephant enclosure; none had disease. Six chimpanzees had suspected
infection. A pathway of transmission between the animals could not be confirmed. Tuberculosis
in an elephant can be transmissible to people in close contact and to other animals more
remotely. The mechanism for transmission from elephants requires further investigation.

(Excuse the formatting; C&P from pdf.)

Someone told me it’s all happening at the Zoo…

(You got a link? A mate spends a lot of time around Elephants)

I got emailed the article, the ref is at the top. It doesn’t say which zoo, just that’s it in NSW although if one knows NSW zoos one could probably work it out.

“In 2006, an Australian zoo imported five Asian
elephants (Elephas maximus) from Thailand.”

“In November 2009, the zoo’s chimpanzees (Pan
troglodytes) were moved to a temporary facility while
their exhibit was being refurbished.”

Seems like all staff were tested, so pretty sure your friend is safe…

The Coalition has unveiled its plan for more regional action to stop people smuggling, pledging $420 million for policy measures that include paying Indonesian villagers for information about smugglers and buying unseaworthy boats
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-08-23/coalition-announces-asylum-policy/4908186

shakes money into dustbin

Targona

There was a very long court case over the animals.