The San Francisco Zoo is doubling on vigilance, keeping two of its aviary exhibits shuttered amid rising concerns about the bird flu. The closures, impacting the African Aviary and South American Tropical Rainforest & Aviary, were instigated as a protective measure against the outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which can affect not only birds but also, in rarer instances, mammals and humans.
According to SFGate, these precautionary steps were taken after the virus was discovered in wild aquatic birds in the Bay Area and the subsequent presence of HPAI in 33 dairy cattle in California. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 60 human cases and is watching the outbreak across the United States. Following the alarming discovery at the zoo of a dead wild red-shouldered hawk, which tested positive for the infection, these steps have turned into immediate actions.
Notably, the red-shouldered hawk, a casualty of the bird flu outbreak, lived on the zoo's premises but was not part of the collection. "The most likely disease carriers are wild ducks that fly into the zoo or humans, who may carry infections on their shoes without realizing it," reports SFGate. The zoo has initiated sanitization protocols, including disinfectants, foot baths, and access restrictions in areas where susceptible species are housed.
The San Francisco Zoo's official social media channel shared the current state of affairs, "This is a temporary situation as we are taking extra precautionary measures due to the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)." The post also mentions the zoo's efforts to monitor the zoo and wild birds for symptoms of illness. Despite the heightened concerns and exhibit closures, the zoo ensures that other areas like the Leaping Lemur Cafe, Gift Shop, and Great Ape Passage Day Room remain open for visitors.
