Sweden: First case of avian influenza confirmed in porpoises
The Norwegian Veterinary Institute (SVA) has confirmed the first finding of avian influenza virus in a porpoise. The analysis shows that the porpoise died as a result of the same virus that was behind this summer's extensive avian influenza outbreak among wild birds. The young male porpoise stranded alive in Kämpersvik, in Tanum municipality, Västra Götaland 28 June 2022 (Sweden). Despite repeated attempts by private individuals to get it to swim out to deeper water again, it was too exhausted, got tangled in seaweed and died later in the evening. The porpoise was transported to SVA for an autopsy.
Avian influenza virus H5N1 was found in several organs including brain causing meningitis. This is the first confirmed case in the world of avian influenza in a porpoise.
