New Pub: High pathogenicity avian influenza in pinniped conservation
New review highlights growing threat of avian influenza to marine mammals
Since 2020, highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5Nx) has increasingly affected marine mammals, especially seals and sea lions, causing repeated mass die-offs. The virus has spread widely, reaching the Southern Hemisphere, remote islands, and even Antarctic regions, with some strains showing evidence of adapting to marine mammals. These developments raise concern for vulnerable and isolated species, while also highlighting how difficult it is to monitor and manage disease in wild ocean populations.
This new review summarizes what we know, identifies key gaps, and outlines steps to better protect marine wildlife.
Ashley E, Vanstreels RET, Barbieri M, Puryear W, Gulland F, Field C, Johnson CK, Uhart M. High pathogenicity avian influenza in pinniped conservation. Philosophical Transactions B. 2026 Mar 5;381(1945):20240320. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2024.0320