A deadly bird flu outbreak has hit the Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park, Arizona, killing five animals. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health confirmed the outbreak on December 11 after testing revealed that several animals had contracted H5N1 avian flu.
The affected animals include a cheetah, a mountain lion, a swamphen, an Andean goose, and a Kookaburra. A white tiger tested positive for the virus but is responding well to treatment. The zoo has put a temporary hold on guest activities with direct animal contact due to the risk of transmission.
County health officials say the risk to visitors remains low, but staff and volunteers who have close contact with infected animals are being identified and contacted. Bird flu is usually spread through bird droppings during migration season, and cases in humans are rare.
The outbreak comes after two human cases were reported in Arizona earlier this year. According to Dr. Nick Staab of the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, the public visiting the zoo is not at risk, as it requires close contact with infected animals. The zoo has implemented robust biosecurity protocols and is working closely with health officials to contain the spread.
Source: https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/bird-flu-cases-reported-wildlife-world-zoo-mcdph