Context:

  • Recently in a disturbing observation, the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) has reported the first known cases of a deadly bird flu strain in gentoo penguins.
  • The H5N1 avian influenza virus was detected after nearly 35 penguins were found dead on the Falkland Islands on January 19, 2024.
  • As per the reports the situation appears to be worsening, with over 200 gentoo penguin chicks and several adults found dead as of January 30th.
  • This marks a significant increase in fatalities, raising alarms about the potential impact on local wildlife populations of the region.

About Gentoo penguins:

  • Gentoo penguins which are scientifically known as Pygoscelis papua.
  • They are renowned for their streamlined bodies and impressive swimming capabilities, reaching speeds up to 22 miles per hour underwater.
  • The gentoo penguin is one of three species in the genus called Pygoscelis.
  • The breeding colonies of these gentoo penguins are located on ice-free surfaces.
  • The species prefer shallow coastal areas and often nest between tufts of grass.

About Bird Flu:

  • Avian influenza or bird flu refers to the disease which is caused by infection with avian (bird) influenza (flu) Type A viruses.
  • These viruses naturally spread among wild aquatic birds worldwide and it can infect domestic poultry and other bird and animal species.
  • Bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans. However, sporadic human infections with bird flu viruses have occurred over the period.
  • Influenza A virus subtype H5N1 (A/H5N1)is a subtype of the influenza A virus that can cause illness in humans and many other species.
  • A bird-adapted strain of H5N1, called HPAI A(H5N1)for highly pathogenic avian influenza virus of type A of subtype H5N1, is the highly pathogenic causative agent of H5N1 flu, which is commonly known as avian influenza ("bird flu").
  • It is enzootic (maintained in the population) in many bird populations especially in Southeast Asia region.