Two baby eagles have died from bird flu at a wildlife rehabilitation center in North Fort Myers, Florida. The Clinic for Wildlife Rehabilitation confirmed the deaths were caused by the highly pathogenic H5N1 strain of avian influenza.
The infected eagle, M15, brought an infected bird into its nest as food, which led to the eaglets’ consumption of contaminated prey. Both E24 and E25, born in this year’s nest, showed symptoms similar to those experienced by E24 earlier. Experts believe the infection started when M15 brought the infected bird into the nest.
According to Jessica Comolli, CROW’s Research and Medical Director, there are reports stating that raptors with clinical signs have a 90-100 percent mortality rate due to the disease. The CDC has warned that humans can also be infected with avian flu, which has led to over 950 cases worldwide, including 66 reported in the US.
While generally not deadly for healthy individuals, those who work closely with infected animals or are immunocompromised are at higher risk. Wildlife experts urge people to take precautions if they encounter injured birds or animals that may be infected, such as avoiding direct skin contact and wearing gloves and a mask.
Source: https://www.fox4now.com/north-fort-myers/bird-flu-crow-confirms-how-north-fort-myers-eaglets-died