A highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak claimed the life of a California bald eagle named Jackie, underscoring the silent threat that bird flu poses to human health.
The necropsy revealed a severe stomach ulcer that led to persistent internal bleeding, anemia, and bacterial sepsis—an uncommon presentation of the virus in raptors.
Steve Kubiski, disease investigations director at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, said the findings mirror the virus’s capacity to cause severe internal damage in birds that feed on infected prey.
Bird flu primarily circulates among waterfowl and shorebirds, but raptors can contract it by eating infected birds, raising concerns for people who work with poultry or keep pet birds.
If you handle birds, wipe down surfaces with 70% alcohol, wear gloves and masks, wash hands thoroughly, and keep pets away from sick or dead birds.
Consult a healthcare provider if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or flu‑like illness after bird exposure, and consider vaccination if you belong to a high‑risk group.