WILLEMSTAD - Brown pelicans from Venezuela spread the avian influenza, or bird flu. This is reported by the Caribbean Seabird Working group. The virus spreads quite quickly among birds and humans can also become infected.
“Cases of the virus have recently been reported in brown pelicans in Venezuela. This is very worrying, as the disease can quickly spread to other parts of the Caribbean," the organization said.
According to the group, the virus killed thousands of seabirds in Europe last summer and has since spread to the Americas. "The virus has now killed ten thousand Peruvian pelicans and cormorants."
The seabird researchers advise not to touch or move the dead or dying birds. However, it is recommended to take a photo of the animal and its location and to contact the local vet.