Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium will be closed to the public starting Monday, March 16, through the end of the month.
The decision was made based on the announcement on Saturday, March 14, by Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts of the state’s first case of community spread and Nebraska’s publication of guidance on events and public gatherings. The Zoo is not aware of any guests or employees with positive Coronavirus tests. As the situation changes and decisions are made about the re-opening and events, the Zoo will continue to post updates on this page and through social media.
Programs and events at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium are canceled through March 31. If you purchased a ticket or registered for a program, the Zoo will contact you separately. While we know this is right decision, there is a busy spring planned at the Zoo and an ongoing schedule of education programs. Zoo staff will continue to monitor this situation and hope to re-activate all plans soon.
Taking Action
The Zoo’s action plan regarding coronavirus includes closely monitoring national, state, and local health authorities for their recommendations regarding the general public and business operations. The Zoo will follow the recommendations regarding safety and precautionary measures issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Douglas (Nebraska) County Health Department, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, and the Iowa Department of Health.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is committed to clean facilities, including the regular cleaning of objects and areas that are frequently used, such as bathrooms, tabletops, counters, conference rooms, door handles, guardrails and railings. The Zoo will be installing additional alcohol-based hand sanitizers throughout public and employee areas. Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium always follows proper sanitation and cleaning processes, along with adhering to ServSafe in our food service and restaurant areas.
All Zoo employees have been asked to help prevent the spread of disease by taking steps to reduce the transmission of infectious disease in the workplace.
- The best strategy remains frequent hand washing with warm, soapy water; covering your mouth whenever you sneeze or cough; and discarding used tissues in wastebaskets.
- The Zoo is providing additional disinfectant wipes throughout the workplace and in common areas.
- The Zoo has re-affirmed its sick policy and has reminded employees that it is critical that they do not report to work while they are ill.
- Nonessential travel for employees has also been restricted.
Protecting Yourself and Others
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and its partners continue to track the unfolding outbreak of respiratory illness caused by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and anticipate its impact on Nebraska and its health care system. Nebraskans can help protect themselves from COVID-19 and other respiratory infections by taking these steps.
