The National Fisheries and Aquaculture Service (Sernapesca) confirmed the second case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a common sea lion in Chile.
The animal was found on La Rinconada beach in the commune of Antofagasta, the same place where the first case was found.
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The national director of Sernapesca, Soledad Tapia Almonacid, said on Radio Bio Bío that through the laboratories of the SAG – an organization that analyzes this type of tests in our country – this second case was confirmed.
Tapia said that the animal, which is an adult female, when it was found presented associated symptoms, in other words, it had muscle spasms, respiratory distress and decay. The sea lion died and was subsequently delivered to the SAG for sampling.
The director of the agency said that this case confirms the deaths of two marine mammals, two penguins and seabirds that are within the competence of Sernapesca due to avian influenza.
The highly pathogenic avian influenza corresponding to the H5 variant of the virus has been detected in wild birds in 11 regions of the country, as well as other countries of the American continent such as the United States, Peru, Argentina, Uruguay, among others.
Faced with this scenario, Sernapesca announced the activation of a special plan for this contingency and there is already work with the Presidential Delegation of Antofagasta, the SAG, Minsal, Senapred, and local and regional authorities.
They also reiterate that, if you encounter a stranded animal, whether alive or dead, they call not to touch or manipulate it; In addition, call the line 800 320 032.
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