A harbor seal in Slottsskogen Park in Gothenburg, Sweden, has tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza, according to the Swedish Veterinary Institute (SVA).
The animal became ill and died in late January, and subsequent testing by the SVA confirmed the infection. This finding comes as Sweden is currently experiencing a high prevalence of the virus, affecting both domestic and wild birds.
“Just now we are seeing a high incidence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Sweden, and both domestic and wild birds are affected,” stated state epizootologist Karl Ståhl in a statement.
The discovery does not currently change the overall infection situation, authorities say. The case highlights the continued spread of avian influenza and the potential for it to affect a wider range of animal species, which is a concern for public health officials monitoring the evolution of the virus.
