Preventive Public Advisory - Zoo de Granby and Public Health

Granby, August 6, 2026 –

Zoo de Granby wishes to inform the public that it is working closely with Public Health authorities following an incident that occurred on August 4, during which a visitor reported sustaining a superficial injury after coming into contact with a Japanese macaque through the mesh barrier of the holding area.

In accordance with our protocols, the individual immediately received first aid on site before being referred to a hospital for medical assessment.

Following the incident, our internal review determined that, during a limited period of time, some members of the public were able to access a presentation platform normally reserved for animal care staff. Although this platform is located outside the animals' habitat and separated from the macaques by a mesh barrier and a buffer zone, we cannot rule out the possibility that other individuals may also have had direct physical contact with a macaque.

As soon as the situation was brought to our attention, our staff immediately secured the area, initiated a comprehensive review of the incident, and implemented additional corrective measures to ensure that such a situation cannot occur again. Zoo de Granby is fully cooperating with Public Health throughout this process.

"The safety of our visitors is our highest priority. We are taking this situation very seriously and are acting with transparency and diligence to ensure that anyone who may have been affected can promptly receive the appropriate medical assessment. We are grateful to Public Health for its valuable collaboration," said Émilie Laurin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Zoo de Granby.

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Zoo de Granby reminds visitors that, even in a zoological setting, wild animals remain wild animals. Physical barriers, staff-only areas, and visitor guidelines are in place to protect both people and the animals in our care. Direct contact with wild animals should always be avoided.

Public Health Recommendations

Dr. Mélissa Généreux, Medical Consultant with the Public Health Directorate of Santé Québec Estrie – CHUS, notes that Japanese macaques may carry the B virus (Herpes B virus). Although human infection is extremely rare, it can result in serious complications if not treated promptly.

"Anyone who visited the macaque area during the period in question and had direct physical contact with a macaque, such as a scratch, a bite, or exposure of an open wound or mucous membrane to the animal's saliva, is asked to contact Info-Santé (811)," said Dr. Mélissa Généreux.

The Public Health Directorate of Santé Québec Estrie – CHUS, Zoo de Granby, Santé Québec, and Québec's Ministry of Health and Social Services are working closely together to monitor the situation and coordinate the necessary public health measures. Actions have already been implemented to support individuals who may have been exposed, as well as healthcare professionals.

Media representatives seeking additional information on the standards governing the care and management of primates in accredited zoological institutions are invited to consult the accreditation requirements of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), to which Zoo de Granby strictly adheres.

About Zoo de Granby and Mission Faune

In addition to being one of Québec's premier attractions, Zoo de Granby is a non-profit organization whose mission is to Act to Preserve the Animal World. Since 1953, the Zoo has advanced wildlife conservation through public education, in situ conservation initiatives, and the funding of scientific research programs. Supporting both local and international wildlife, Zoo de Granby Mission Faune initiative is dedicated to accelerating concrete conservation actions to protect biodiversity. It is a call to action, for today and for future generations.

Media Contact

• Marelle communications 
• vlavoie@marellecommunications.com