First case of bird flu found in elephant seal

he National Agri-food Health and Quality Service (Senasa) Confirmed today New cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 detected marine mammals exist Commodore Rivadavia, Radatili and Punta Tombo This is the first case found in an elephant seal.

The agency’s national laboratory diagnosed positive for the disease in new samples taken from sea lions and elephant seals found dead at the sites. Based on notifications, on-site assistance, sample collection and processing, avian influenza has been detected in a new species of marine mammal (elephant seal).

suggestion

Because the virus is present in the secretions and excreta of sick or dead animals, agencies and the public are reminded Don’t go near dead animals or have suspicious symptoms If death, neurological, digestive and/or respiratory symptoms are observed, please notify Senasa. Among marine mammals or birds, whether wild or domestic (mainly including ducks, chickens, chickens, roosters, geese, turkeys).

Additionally, it is recommended:
•When wild animals are present, such as sick or dead birds and sea lions, do not approach them and avoid direct contact.
• Keep pets responsibly and limit their access to beaches with sick or dead animals.
•Report sick or dead wildlife immediately.

Epidemiological situation

Senasa stressed that the recent detection results in marine mammals do not affect the animal health status declared to the World Organization for Animal Health (WHO), which Argentina maintains its status as a highly pathogenic avian influenza-free country in poultry.

According to the organization’s guidelines, the disease can occur in subpopulations of wildlife but can be kept free of the disease through biosecurity measures and monitoring of poultry subpopulations.

They also reported will continue to cooperate with different regions, Together with national, provincial and municipal organizations and production departments, Maintain a state of alert and epidemiological surveillance in an effort to contain the spread of the disease.

method to informe

According to Senasa Resolution No. 153/2021, avian influenza is a notifiable disease in our country and anyone who notices death, neurological, digestive and/or respiratory symptoms in wild or domestic birds can notify the agency through the following channels:

Visit the nearest Senasa office in person and call the phone number 11 5700 5704; pass Mobile device application “Senasa Notifications”available on the Play Store; write to email (email protected) or through the Notification Senasa section on its website. More information on the avian influenza microsite.