Five Animals Dead Following Bird Flu Outbreak at Wildlife World Zoo
Five cherished animals at Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park have succumbed to the H5N1 avian flu virus, officials from the Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) announced on Wednesday. The outbreak, which has impacted multiple species, has prompted swift action from the zoo and health authorities to prevent further spread and protect visitors and staff.
Animals Affected
The deceased animals include a cheetah, a mountain lion, a swamphen, an Andean goose, and a kookaburra. A white tiger also tested positive for the virus but is showing promising signs of recovery under veterinary care.
“This did not start at the zoo but was brought in by wild birds during migration season,” said Wildlife World Zoo President Kristy Hayden. “We are deeply saddened by the loss of these animals but grateful that the situation was contained quickly thanks to our robust biosecurity protocols and the support of state and federal agencies.”
Containment Efforts
Zoo officials identified the ill animals and reported them to the Arizona Department of Agriculture, which conducted testing. Following the confirmation of bird flu, the zoo implemented strict biosecurity measures, including temporary suspension of guest activities involving direct animal contact. Precautions such as masks, gloves, and full protective suits are now mandatory for zoo veterinarians and staff handling animals.
“Public health’s recommendations are aimed at reducing the risk for those in close, prolonged contact with infected animals and preventing further spread,” said Dr. Nick Staab, Assistant Medical Director at MCDPH. Health officials stressed that the risk to the general public remains low, as avian flu transmission to humans is rare and typically requires close, direct exposure.
Community Impact and Warnings
The Wildlife World Zoo outbreak is the latest in a string of bird flu cases reported across Arizona. In November, the virus was detected in poultry at a commercial farm in Pinal County and a backyard flock in Maricopa County. Two workers at the Pinal County farm tested positive for avian influenza, marking the first human cases in Arizona since the virus was identified in the U.S. in 2015.
Bird flu symptoms in humans can range from mild respiratory issues to severe complications like pneumonia. Health officials advise residents to avoid unprotected contact with sick or dead animals, practice good hygiene, and report suspected cases of bird flu in poultry to the state’s sick bird hotline.
Looking Ahead
While other animals in close contact remain under quarantine, no additional cases have been reported at the zoo in the past week. Hayden emphasized the zoo’s ongoing commitment to animal welfare and public safety: “Our team worked diligently to contain the situation, and we remain focused on the health and safety of our animals, staff, and visitors.”
Authorities continue to monitor the outbreak, urging vigilance as bird migration season progresses. Though the loss of these animals is a sobering reminder of the virus’s impact, proactive measures and collaboration among local, state, and federal agencies have been instrumental in limiting its spread.
For more information or to report suspected avian flu cases in birds, contact the sick bird hotline at 866-536-7593.
References
- Animals dead following bird flu infections at Wildlife World Zoo: MCDPH – Fox 10 Phoenix – (Accessed on Dec 12, 2024)
- 5 animals die after being diagnosed with bird flu at Maricopa County zoo – AZ Family – (Accessed on Dec 12, 2024)
- Valley zoo takes action after bird flu detected in several animals – Ktar – (Accessed on Dec 12, 2024)
- Five animals dead after testing positive for bird flu at Wildlife World Zoo – ABC 15 – (Accessed on Dec 12, 2024)
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