Bird flu has been linked to the deaths of 10 bottlenose dolphins in the Indian River Lagoon in Florida. This area in the United States has become a global hotspot for the virus in marine mammals.
Wildlife officials say bird flu has been found in dolphins in the lagoon over the past two years. The most recent deaths have brought the total number to 10.
Scientists believe the dolphins become infected mainly through contact with sick birds or bird droppings in the water. Spread from dolphin to dolphin seems less common.
The virus attacks the animals’ brains and nervous systems. The inflammation to their brain can lead to weakness, disorientation, and sometimes drowning.
The Indian River Lagoon runs along Florida’s east coast and is home to many bottlenose dolphins and other species.
Wildlife officials are watching the situation and testing dolphin carcasses to find out if more deaths are linked to bird flu.
