Bird flu detected in Antarctica’s seal species for the first time

On Thursday, January 11, a group of British scientists reported that they had discovered bird flu in populations of fur and elephant seals on the sub-Antarctic Island of South Georgia for the first time.

As per Reuters, experts initially suspected the existence of bird flu (H5N1 virus) in October last year following the demise of multiple brown skua seabirds on Bird Island, which is a part of the South Sandwich Islands and South Georgia British Overseas Territory.

At a few other locations, there had also been an increase in the fatalities of brown skua, kelp gulls, and fur seals.

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What causes bird flu?

Infected birds can spread the virus to other species. (Image via Pexels/ Pascal Borener)

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diseases that naturally occur among wild aquatic birds are the cause of bird flu (CDC). These viruses are categorized according to the hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N) surface proteins and are members of the influenza A virus family. Avian influenza viruses come in different subtypes, each identified by an H or N number (e.g., H5N1, H7N9).

Birds that are infected with the virus can spread it to other animals by spitting and other bodily fluids.

According to the British Antarctic Survey’s October announcement, the virus was most likely brought to South Georgia by migratory birds that traveled from South America. Three weeks in December were devoted by APHA and BAS researchers to gathering samples from deceased birds and mammals on the impacted islands.

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Can humans catch bird flu?

Humans may contract avian influenza. (Image via Pexels/ Jen Healy)

It is not typical for people to contract avian influenza, also known as bird flu. Most instances are brought about by direct or intimate contact with diseased birds or their surroundings.

Avian influenza viruses occasionally experience genetic alterations that result in variants that are capable of infecting humans. When this happens, it can result in outbreaks or even pandemics, as individuals may have little to no pre-existing immunity to the new strain.

People usually contract avian influenza from birds when they come into touch with infected birds' saliva, nasal secretions, or feces. In locations where domestic birds and humans coexist, this is more likely to occur. There is a chance that humans will come into contact with the virus because of certain behaviors, like keeping live chickens in homes.

Interestingly, not every bird flu virus is dangerous to people. Humans can have moderate respiratory symptoms from some strains, but serious illness and even death have been linked to certain strains, including H5N1 and H7N9.

Preventing the transmission of avian influenza to humans requires the implementation of public health interventions, such as surveillance of possible human cases and monitoring and control of outbreaks in poultry.

There is also a decreased chance of avian influenza outbreaks in human populations thanks to research and development of vaccinations, early detection techniques, and containment measures.