Zoo Miami Employee Hospitalized After Possible Opioid Exposure

A routine procedure at Zoo Miami took an unexpected turn when an employee fell ill while preparing a greater kudu antelope for a transfer. The animal, which had been sedated, led to concerns about accidental opioid exposure.

Incident Details

The incident occurred as the Zoo Miami staff assisted in sedating the greater kudu antelope, using thiafentanil, a potent opioid. During the procedure, the employee began showing symptoms of illness. The zoo acted swiftly, administering Narcan and transporting the employee to Jackson South Medical Center.

Concerns of Opioid Exposure

Zoo officials suspect the employee may have inadvertently come into contact with thiafentanil through the kudu’s saliva. Although the exact cause of the illness remains unconfirmed, precautions were taken due to the opioid’s potential dangers.

“The staff member was stable and remained under medical observation,” Zoo Miami confirmed.

Thiafentanil, commonly used to immobilize animals for veterinary procedures, poses significant risks to humans upon exposure.

About the Greater Kudu

The greater kudu, native to East and southern Africa, is a large antelope with distinctive spiral horns. These animals are social, often forming groups of up to 25. Greater kudus are known for their remarkable horns, which can exceed three feet in length.

The zoo has not confirmed further details regarding the employee’s condition or the incident. Updates from Zoo Miami are pending.