A recent outbreak of bird flu has affected animals at the Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park, Arizona, resulting in the deaths of five animals, including a cheetah and an Andean goose. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) is working with state and federal organizations to respond to the detection of avian influenza in the zoo.
According to MCDPH, five animals have died from H5N1 avian flu, while a white tiger tested positive for the virus but is expected to recover. The zoo has temporarily suspended guest activities involving direct animal contact and is implementing additional health and safety measures to protect visitors and staff.
Health officials recommend basic steps to prevent the spread of bird flu and other respiratory viruses, including practicing good hand hygiene, getting vaccinated against seasonal flu and COVID-19, and staying home if sick.
Arizona has reported recent cases of bird flu in Maricopa County and Pinal County, but there have been no human or animal cases in Coconino County. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a low public health risk despite recent outbreaks in poultry and dairy cows.
Source: https://www.abc15.com/news/state/bird-flu-virus-hits-wildlife-world-zoo-park-implementing-safety-measures