Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed in California marine mammals for the first time. UC Davis said seven northern elephant seal pups at Año Nuevo State Park tested positive. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed the outbreak Tuesday night. California State Parks closed elephant seal viewing areas Tuesday after several seals were found sick or dead. Researchers saw abnormal respiratory and neurological signs, including weakness and tremors. Experts say public risk is very low, and people should not touch seals or let pets approach them.
