Two Patagonian sea lions (Otaria flavescens) have died with the first case yielding HPAI H5N1.  The animals were located on the shores of Navarino Island on the southern tip of South America.  The report in ProMed Mail also commented on extensive mortality in seals and sea lions along coastal Peru over past weeks.  Whole-genome sequencing of H5NI isolated from mammals showed mutations in the PB2 gene segment that are associated with viral replication in mammals.  These changes were however absent in the isolates from previous cases in sea lions.

Mammals known to be susceptible to HPAI H5N1 include red foxes, bobcats, mountain lions, skunks, raccoons, bears, otters and mink.