Deadly Bird Flu Confirmed on Antarctica's Mainland, Threatening Penguin Colonies

For the first time, a lethal strain of avian influenza has been detected on Antarctica, posing a significant risk to the continent's dense penguin populations.

A deadly strain of avian flu, H5N1, has been confirmed on the mainland of Antarctica, marking the first such occurrence.
The virus was identified in dead skua seabirds near the Argentine base Primavera, raising concerns for the region's penguin colonies.
Scientists warn that the virus's presence could lead to mass mortality among penguins, who reside in tightly packed colonies and may lack immunity.
The global spread of H5N1 has already resulted in the deaths of millions of birds and has now reached every continent except Australia.
Efforts are underway to monitor and prevent the spread of the virus among Antarctica's wildlife, with particular concern for its potential impact on penguins.