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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
Ryan Sack

Ryan Sack

Response Dispatcher, Ke Kai Ola Operations

Ryan Sack first joined The Marine Mammal Center as a volunteer at Ke Kai Ola, our hospital for Hawaiian monk seals in Kona, Hawai‘i. In his staff role as Response Dispatcher, he provides coverage for our Hawaiian monk seal sighting hotline, supports our volunteers and broadens our community outreach program on Hawai‘i Island.

In 2022, Ryan graduated with a B.S. in marine science from the University of Hawai‘i Hilo, where he served as the student coordinator for the university's Sea Turtle Biological Assessment Program. He has four years of experience in marine animal rescue and response, and spent time working with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) under the state's Division of Aquatic Resources Protected Species Program.

When he's not working, Ryan is usually out fishing, but loves anything aquatic.

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