Latest advice from MSP, MGAP and Department for the Environment on cases of avian influenza in sea lions

Advice from the Department of the Environment; Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries and Public Health For the general population and specifically for workers who come into contact with birds or marine mammals in wildlife reserves or who collect the remains of dead birds and marine mammals .

Advice to the public when cases of avian influenza are discovered in sea lions

• Places that restrict public access to habitats of migratory birds and marine mammals (wolves or sea lions).
• Do not feed, touch or handle wild animals.
• If you see an animal that is visibly injured or sick, do not approach or attempt to lift or assist them and report the matter to the competent authority.
• Avoid handling visibly sick animals, carcasses or their remains, and prevent livestock or pets from coming into contact with, preying on or eating these remains.
• Prevent domestic animals from coming into contact with wild animals, especially in areas where marine animals stay or rest (e.g., don’t walk your dog on the beach without a leash).
• If you may have been exposed to an infected animal or its remains, please monitor yourself for possible respiratory symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache, and lack of sleep) over the next ten days. ) Consult a physician to report any history of possible contact with sick animals or their remains.

Advice for people who come into contact with birds or marine mammals, work in wildlife sanctuaries, or collect dead bird and marine mammal remains

• Use personal protective equipment (N95 mask, gloves, boots, coveralls) when handling animals or their remains.
• Adequately disinfect places and vehicles that come into contact with these animals and their bodily fluids or excreta.
• Clothing and footwear used in these tasks should be washed and kept in appropriate conditions in the workplace, with an area designated for disinfection and clothing changes at the end of the job.
• Likewise, we recommend that center staff conducting these activities be trained in the proper use of PPE.
• If you develop respiratory symptoms, call your health care provider and tell them you have been exposed to an animal that may be infected with avian influenza.
• Disinfection of contaminated surfaces may use 2% sodium hypochlorite, synthetic phenol, 2% glutaraldehyde, 2% sodium hydroxide, or other compounds recommended by MGAP and the Ministry of Environment.

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