Overview
- Seven weaned northern elephant seal pups at Año Nuevo State Park tested positive for HPAI H5N1, with confirmation from the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory.
- Researchers first noted abnormal respiratory and neurological signs on Feb. 19–20, and say the situation reflects an early-stage outbreak.
- Roughly 30 seals have died to date, with additional suspected cases pending laboratory results, according to university scientists.
- California State Parks closed elephant seal viewing areas and canceled guided tours for the rest of the season, though some park facilities and trails remain open.
- UC Davis and UC Santa Cruz, working with NOAA Fisheries, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the West Coast Stranding Network, are expanding testing and surveillance as officials emphasize the very low risk to the public and advise avoiding contact with live or dead seals and keeping pets away.