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First Known Cougar Fatalities from Bird Flu in Washington
Two young male cougars in Clallam County, Washington, have died after contracting the bird flu, marking the first known instances of such deaths in the state. Detected in Washington since 2022, the bird flu, or highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, has infected various mammals and birds, indicating the virus's presence in the local ecosystem. Despite these cougar deaths and a rise in human cases primarily among individuals exposed to infected animals, the CDC states the general risk for the population remains low. People in contact with potentially infected animals are urged to take precautions. This development highlights the importance of monitoring wildlife health as HPAI infections rise in the state.