The H5N1 virus is evolving rapidly, experts warn as calls mount for countries to vaccinate. While the risk to humans remains low, the growing number of cases among mammals is considered worrying.
Chile announced that nearly 9,000 sea lions, penguins, otters, porpoises and dolphins have died from bird flu on its northern coast since early 2023. Some countries, including China, Egypt and Vietnam, have already organized such vaccination campaigns. But many others are reluctant because of possible import restrictions.