A recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI H5N1) has been detected in elephant seal pups at Año Nuevo State Park in California. As a precautionary measure, park officials have canceled all seal-watching tours for the remainder of the breeding season. Researchers from the University of California-Santa Cruz and University of California-Davis confirmed that seven seal pups tested positive for the virus, with additional seals showing signs of illness.
This outbreak is significant as it represents the first instance of bird flu detected among marine mammals in California, prompting immediate actions from wildlife officials and researchers. The virus has a history of causing severe impacts on wildlife globally, previously leading to the deaths of thousands of sea lions and other marine mammals in various regions.
While the virus poses a low risk to humans, officials advise keeping a safe distance from both healthy and sick seals and discouraging pet interaction with these animals. The park, located about 90 minutes south of San Francisco, is known for its annual seasonal gatherings of elephant seals, where visitors typically flock to observe mating and birthing activities.
Jordan Burgess, the deputy district superintendent of the California Department of Parks and Recreation, mentioned that the decision to close the viewing area was made out of "an abundance of caution" to prevent any possible transmission of the virus. Christine Johnson, director at UC Davis’ Weill School of Veterinary Medicine, highlighted that the situation was identified swiftly due to ongoing surveillance for wildlife diseases.
Visitors can still access other areas of the park, but seal viewing will remain suspended as health officials continue to monitor the situation and mitigate risks associated with the outbreak.
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