itstargetnews
Bird flu kills a harbor seal and a Chilean flamingo Chicago Lincoln Park Zoo.
The zoo announced that they had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal.
“This is for wildlife and Zoo team. “Not only are we facing the first known case of highly pathogenic avian influenza,” Veterinary Services Director Lester E. Fisher and Dr. Kathryn Gamble said in a statement , and also lost two amazing animals. “Influenza is a virus that occurs naturally in free-ranging waterfowl, and more mammalian species have been reported to be susceptible to highly pathogenic avian influenza since 2022. “
The zoo announced that they had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was the cause of the deaths of Teal, a Chilean flamingo, and Slater, a harbor seal. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
The zoo cannot confirm the source of exposure, but the Centers for Disease Control says highly pathogenic avian influenza is spread through the saliva, nasal secretions and feces of infected birds.
They did say there is no risk of zoo visitors contracting the disease from animals at Lincoln Park Zoo.
“Because highly pathogenic avian influenza is spread by free-ranging birds, visiting Lincoln Park Zoo is no more risky than taking a walk outdoors,” said Megan Ross, president and CEO and ornithologist. “Zoos remain a safe place to stay connected to the animals in our care.”
Avian flu causes severe human illness and emergency; experts discuss risks
The zoo announced that they had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was responsible for the deaths of teal flamingos and harbor seals in Chile. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
Click here to get the Fox News app
The zoo has been monitoring highly pathogenic avian influenza, so there is a A response plan has been developed. The program involves both employees and animals. It includes personal protective equipment and eliminating cross-contamination between species while monitoring the behavior of individual animals, according to a statement from the zoo. They have also closed the McCormick Birdhouse and will be closed until further notice.
The zoo announced that they had received results confirming that highly pathogenic avian influenza was responsible for the deaths of teal flamingos and harbor seals in Chile. (Lincoln Park Zoo)
The zoo also said in a statement that it is important to keep personal pets indoors and away from wild animals.
“It is important for our entire community to share the news about highly pathogenic avian influenza in the region,” said Seth Mager, director of the Urban Wildlife Institute. “To protect yourself, do not interact with wild animals. Also, keep your pets safe Indoor cats and dogs Stay away from wild animals. “
