"Well, for the first time we've seen in Ano Nuevo Beach, some of the seals, seals pups developing bird flu. We know that "bird flu" is really an influenza virus that can attack lots of mammals."
"You should be careful when you're approaching other mammals, particularly if you're going to be, for example, on the beach and you see a seal, particularly if the seal looks sick, but a well animal could certainly be infected and spread the viruses as well."
Warmer weather is drawing more visitors to California beaches this weekend, but the California Department of Public Health warns of bird flu risks in marine mammals and birds. Elephant seals at Año Nuevo Beach and other locations have tested positive for the virus. Dr. John Swartzberg from UC Berkeley notes this marks the first documented cases of bird flu in seal pups, indicating the influenza virus can infect various mammals beyond birds. The Marine Mammal Center advises beachgoers and pet owners to avoid approaching live or dead animals, as infected animals—whether appearing sick or healthy—can spread the virus. Dog owners are urged to keep pets close and maintain distance from wildlife.
Read at ABC7 San Francisco
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