Mass Mortality of Sea Lions Caused by Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus

Emerg Infect Dis. 2023 Dec;29(12):2553-2556. doi: 10.3201/eid2912.230192. Epub 2023 Nov 2.

Abstract

We report a massive mortality of 5,224 sea lions (Otaria flavescens) in Peru that seemed to be associated with highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus infection. The transmission pathway may have been through the close contact of sea lions with infected wild birds. We recommend evaluating potential virus transmission among sea lions.

Keywords: H5N1; HPAI; Peru; avian influenza; influenza; respiratory infections; sea lions; viruses.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Wild
  • Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype*
  • Influenza A virus*
  • Influenza in Birds*
  • Sea Lions*