Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park, Arizona, has identified avian flu, specifically the H5N1 strain, in its birds. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) clarified that the virus-positive cases were among several animals at the zoo that became ill. The zoo has relocated the infected animals to a separate area. Laboratory analysis conducted by the Department of Agriculture, Arizona, confirmed that it was H5N1 avian flu. Avian influenza is primarily an infection of birds, although it has sparked concerns about its potential to infect humans.
Avian flu A(H5N1) is the subtype that is generally most closely linked to birds. The infection is well documented to affect poultry but occasionally reported infective in humans. Transmission is by direct contact with affected birds or through contact with their environment, like farms and markets for live birds.
Only individuals with serious illness may present symptoms, while the rest may only show mild or no symptoms. Some mild symptoms include coughing, sore throat, Conjunctivitis (red eyes), fever, and malaise.
It can cause complicated pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), acute organ dysfunction, sepsis, or encephalopathy with seizures.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), since 1997, over 900 humans have been infected with H5N1, and over 50% of infected individuals have died.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said that the danger that H5N1 poses to the average citizen is minimal. However, if the person is involved in rearing, had to interact with infected poultry, or has been linked to infected birds for long intervals, the likelihood of getting infected is higher, and it is advised to monitor the symptoms.
Avian flu kills zoo animals
Recent reports from the Wildlife World Zoo have stated that a significant outbreak of the H5N1 strain has happened. This already caused five deaths: a cheetah, one mountain lion, one kookaburra, a swamphen, and an Andean goose. One white tiger appeared positive but has survived through treatment.
In a press release, zoo officials said the most likely source of infection was wild birds from outside the facility. As a precautionary measure, biosecurity protocols were enacted, such as enhanced cleaning measures, and access has been restricted to areas where infected animals are kept. Activities involving guests' contact with animals have been suspended for now.
Kristy Hayden, president of Wildlife World Zoo, said:
“While we are deeply saddened to report the loss of a few cherished animals, we are grateful that the impact was limited thanks to our swift response, robust biosecurity protocols, and the invaluable support of Maricopa County Department of Public Health and state and federal agencies.”
Dr. Nick Staab, the assistant medical director for the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, told NBC 12 News that by December 12, none of the employees had tested positive. According to Dr. Staab:
Trending
"Those individuals who are getting sick do have that close contact with these animals, whether it's dairy cattle or sick birds. The general risk to the population remains low.”
According to the press release, this is the second outbreak in Maricopa County; the previous one affected a private flock of commercial poultry. Two individuals in Pinal County, east of Maricopa County, tested positive and recovered, but no one in Maricopa County is afflicted.
Reply
