Explainer: Why bird flu is now a major threat to marine life
A deadly strain of avian influenza, A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b, is posing a significant threat to marine life globally. The virus has caused mass fatalities among poultry, wild birds, and various mammal species. It's now impacting marine mammals, leading to mass die-offs of sea lions, seals, and seabirds. The true impact on marine life and the potential risk to humans is hard to quantify. The spread of the virus is concerning, and close monitoring and early detection are crucial to mitigate its impact.