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California Warns Beachgoers of Bird Flu Risks

3/8/2026

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Story summary
  • The California Department of Public Health warns beachgoers about bird flu risks after elephant seals tested positive for the virus and notes there is no evidence of seal-to-human transmission, especially for pet owners visiting beaches.
  • The department says the risk to the general public is very low.
  • Dr. John Swartzberg of UC Berkeley notes mammals can contract the virus and urges people to keep distance from live and dead animals.