Avian influenza, otherwise known as bird flu, has been circulating throughout  the U.S. for quite some time. The type A virus first appeared in the 1990s, but had an uprising in 2023 and is still affecting animals and people in 2025. It is most common in birds, cows, and oxen, but can still affect humans when it interacts with the eyes, nose or mouth. 

We aren’t the only mammals at risk – large wildcats in zoos also face infections and even death due to avian influenza. Zoo Atlanta in Georgia took many precautions when they heard of a new bird flu outbreak: Any animals that interacted with wildfowl, dairy products, or eggs could be subject to the disease. 

Experts continue to monitor the situation by watching wildlife, establishing quarantine zones, and running tests on infected animals. Doctors and medical professionals recommend zoos keep their mammals and birds separated for the time being and test food products before feeding. They also recommend humans wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves, when dealing with an animal diagnosed with bird flu. Doctors are well equipped to help any human affected and are currently researching vaccines that could end the  risk altogether.

Article by Ozy Zinke-Haschemeyer