First pet infections reported in U.S.

Two cats in New York have become the first pets in the United States to test positive for the new coronavirus, according to U.S. health authorities.

It is believed that they contracted the virus from people in their households or neighborhoods.

At a daily briefing, Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said there's no evidence that the virus is transmitted from pets to humans, indicating owners do not need to fear their pets.

Meanwhile, four tigers and three lions are the latest big cats to be infected with the virus at Bronx Zoo in New York City. Another tiger at the zoo tested positive earlier this month.

Read more: Tiger at NYC zoo tests positive for coronavirus