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The New York Times: Scientists Begin Testing Bird Flu Vaccine in Seals

In response to the increasing threat of bird flu, marine mammal researchers are hoping to provide a life-saving, preventative vaccine for endangered Hawaiian monk seals. 

Learn how researchers at The Marine Mammal Center are studying the bird flu vaccine in elephant seals as a similar species, as well as our next steps to protect Hawaiian monk seals.

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Northern elephant seal
Northern elephant seal pup

Faithful

Northern Elephant Seal
Mirounga angustirostris

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This patient is a northern elephant seal, our second most commonly rescued species. We typically see orphaned pups that have stranded during mid-February to late June. Strong storms often wash these young seals off beaches before they have weaned from their mothers or learned how to survive on their own.

This results in many malnourished and underweight pups needing rehabilitative care. Northern elephant seals suffer from disease as well, such as skin disease, pneumonia and parasites like lungworm.

Age at Admit
Pup
Weight at Admit
33.00 kgs
Sex
Female
Rescue Location
Stinson Beach - South - Stinson Beach, Marin
Cause of Death
Esophageal abnormality
Admitted
03/26/2025
Status
Deceased
Deceased Date
08/10/2025

Yes, I want to save a life!

Yes, I want to save a life!

You’ll be giving sick and injured animals the best possible care at the Center’s state-of-the-art hospital. With your gift today, you are giving a patient a second chance at life in the wild.

  • $35 You'll buy food for a hungry animal
  • $45 You'll provide life-saving medical care
  • $65 You'll make second chances possible

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