Bird flu killed a harbor seal and a Chilean flamingo at Chicago's 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 sad news for both the wildlife and zoo teams. Not only are we facing the first known case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in our care, but we have also lost two amazing animals,” said Lester E. Fisher, director of veterinary services. Dr. Katherine Gamble in a statement. “While HPAI is a naturally occurring virus in free-ranging waterfowl, more mammalian species have been reported to be susceptible to HPAI since 2022.”
Nearly 40 cases of human avian influenza have been confirmed in one state, ranking first in the country
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 HPAI is spread through the saliva, nasal secretions and feces of infected birds.
They did say there is no risk for zoo visitors to contract 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 and has developed a response plan. 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, avoid contact with wild animals. Additionally, keep cats indoors and dogs on a leash away from wild animals to keep your pets safe."