In brief
Twenty big cats, including a Bengal tiger and several cougars, have succumbed to bird flu at a Washington state sanctuary, prompting deep sorrow among staff and an immediate quarantine.
The Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington reported the deaths, which occurred over a few weeks from late November to mid-December. According to the sanctuary's director, Mark Mathews, this incident marks an unprecedented event for the organization. "We've never had anything like it, as they usually die of old age. This virus is particularly aggressive," he stated. The infection, caused by a virus typically spread through contact with infected wild birds, has significantly impacted the sanctuary, leading to the closure to the public to curb any further outbreaks. Among the felines lost were five African serval cats, four bobcats, two Canada lynx, and one Bengal tiger. Currently, only 17 cats remain under the sanctuary's care.The sanctuary's Facebook post emphasized the vulnerability of cats to the bird flu virus, which can enter a rapid decline in health, often resulting in death within 24 hours due to pneumonia-like symptoms. While bird flu has historically affected poultry in the U.S., it has recently begun to spread among cattle, with the first cases reported in March. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded 61 human cases since April 2024, with the general public perceived to be at low risk. Nonetheless, a recent severe case in Louisiana has increased the urgency for vaccine development and response measures.In light of the outbreak, California's Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency concerning affected dairy cows to secure necessary resources for a swift response.WashingtonUnited States
