Avian Influenza Detected at Litchfield Park Zoo, Risk to Public Low

Zoo in Litchfield Park Faces Avian Influenza, Implements Safety Measures

In a recent development, a small number of animals at a zoo in Litchfield Park have tested positive for avian influenza. Despite this, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) assures the public that the risk to visitors remains minimal.

The Wildlife World Zoo, upon identifying symptoms in certain animals, collaborated with the Arizona Department of Agriculture for testing. Results pointed to the presence of the H5N1 avian flu, a strain first detected in wild birds in the U.S. in 2015. MCDPH is now working with the zoo to reach out to staff and volunteers who may have had close contact with the infected animals.

Dr. Nick Staab, assistant medical director at MCDPH, stated, “People who have job-related exposures to infected animals, especially close prolonged exposure, are at higher risk of infection.” He emphasized the importance of public health recommendations to mitigate risks for those in direct contact with the affected animals.

In response to the detection, Wildlife World Zoo has temporarily halted guest activities involving direct animal interaction and adopted enhanced health protocols. Measures include:

Isolation and Quarantine
1. Isolation of infected or exposed animals to halt disease spread.
2. Quarantine for animals that might be exposed, focusing on other birds.

Enhanced Biosecurity
1. Restricting access to impacted areas to essential personnel in protective gear.
2. Disinfecting enclosures and equipment in affected zones.
3. Using disinfectant footbaths at enclosure entries.

Monitoring and Testing
1. Health checks for all birds and susceptible species.
2. Testing for illness signs or virus presence.
3. Monitoring staff who were in close contact with infected animals.

Kristy Hayden, president of Wildlife World Zoo, expressed, “While we are deeply saddened to report the loss of a few cherished animals, we are grateful that the impact was limited thanks to our swift response, robust biosecurity protocols, and the invaluable support of Maricopa County Department of Public Health and state and federal agencies.”

Avian influenza H5 mainly affects birds and has been previously identified in Arizona. Though human infections are rare, they occur mostly after unprotected contact with infected animals or their environments. Symptoms in humans can range from mild to severe, with no evidence of human-to-human transmission.

To minimize infection risks, it’s recommended to avoid unprotected contact with sick animals and refrain from consuming raw dairy products. For concerns about poultry infection, contact the USDA’s sick bird hotline at 866-536-7593.

As flu season progresses, MCDPH advises taking preventive measures against respiratory viruses. These include:

Maintaining good hand hygiene with soap or sanitizer.

Getting seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

Consulting healthcare providers about other vaccines for specific groups.

Staying home if unwell and seeking medical advice if symptoms worsen.

Dr. Staab noted, “We are in the middle of flu season, with other viruses like COVID-19 circulating as well, so people should stay watchful, especially with the holidays upon us.”