The Avian Influenza has claimed the lives of a Harbor Seal and a Chilean Flamingo at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo.
The zoo introduced they acquired outcomes that confirmed the extremely pathogenic Avian Influenza was the reason for Teal, a Chilean Flamingo, and Slater, a Harbor Seal’s dying.
“This is sad news for wildlife and for the zoo team. Not only are we facing the first known cases of HPAI in animals in our care, but we’ve lost two amazing animals,” stated Director of Veterinary Providers Lester E. Fisher and Dr. Kathryn Gamble in a press release. “While highly pathogenic avian influenza is a naturally occurring virus in free-ranging waterfowl, more mammal species have been reported to be susceptible to HPAI since 2022.”
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The zoo was unable to substantiate the supply of the publicity, however the Facilities for Illness Management say that HPAI is unfold by saliva, nasal secretion and the feces of contaminated birds.
They did say that zoo guests will not be prone to contracting the illness from the animals at Lincoln Park zoo.
“Because highly pathogenic avian influenza is spread by free-ranging birds, it is no riskier to visit Lincoln Park Zoo than to enjoy a walk outdoors,” stated President & CEO and ornithologist Megan Ross. “The zoo remains a safe place to connect with the animals in our care.”
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The zoo has been monitoring HPAI, so there’s a response plan in place. The plan addresses workers and animals. It consists of private protecting gear and eradicating cross contamination between species whereas monitoring particular person animal conduct, in response to a press release by the zoo. They’ve additionally closed the McCormick Chook Home and will likely be closed till additional discover.
The zoo additionally stated of their assertion that it’s necessary to maintain private pets indoors and away from wildlife.
“Sharing this news of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the area is important for our community at large,” stated Director of the City Wildlife Institute Seth Magle. “To guard your self, don’t deal with wildlife. Moreover, hold your pets protected by maintaining cats indoors and canines on a leash away from wildlife.”