First Penguins Die of H5N1 Bird Flu in Antarctica
Antarctica, known for its pristine polar ecosystems and diverse wildlife, is facing a new and alarming threat - the emergence of the highly contagious H5N1 bird flu virus among penguin populations. This devastating virus, previously unheard of in the region, has already claimed the lives of gentoo penguins in the Falkland Islands and is suspected to have infected king penguins on South Georgia island.
Until recently, the Antarctic region had remained untouched by high pathogenicity avian influenza viruses. However, the arrival of H5N1 in the area last year has raised concerns among researchers and wildlife experts. Penguins, including the king and gentoo species, have never been exposed to this virus before, leaving them with little to no immunity. The current breeding season, during wh...