Great apes, like chimpanzees and gorillas, share over 96% of our genetic material, making them vulnerable to human diseases. Infections that are no big deal for us can be disastrous for them.

In a Ugandan national park in 2017, over 25 chimps in a group of 205 died from a respiratory virus that causes simple colds in humans. Many more died after being orphaned during the outbreak.

As tourists come closer, they often transmit bacteria and viruses to great apes, which have no immunity. New research shows that local adults — like tour guides — may spread pathogens they inadvertently catch from their school-age children.

One thing’s for sure: Much more needs to be done to protect these endangered animals … from us.