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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
threatened

This patient is a southern sea otter, a threatened species. Because sea otters are very dexterous and curious, we retrofitted several pool areas at our hospital to provide a safe space for juvenile and adult sea otters to receive life-saving care.

Many sea otters strand suffering from domoic acid toxicosis, toxoplasmosis, injury and other ailments.





photo © The Marine Mammal Center / USFWS permit MA101713-1 

Age at Admit
Subadult
Weight at Admit
15.00 kgs
Sex
Male
Rescue Location
Pismo Beach (Cottage Inn By the Sea) - Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo
Admitted
09/09/2025
Status
Deceased
Deceased Date
09/09/2025

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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