Jerez Zoo closes after West Nile virus detected in birds

The Zoobotánico Alberto Durán in Jerez has implemented a preventive closure following the detection of West Nile virus in two birds. The first case involved a deceased golden eagle, and a second infection was subsequently confirmed in a cassowary.

In response to these findings, the City Council of Jerez and the Junta de Andalucía have activated established protocols. Jerez will be declared an alert area for West Nile fever, leading to reinforced mosquito control measures throughout the municipality.

Local authorities have emphasized that the affected birds do not transmit the virus directly to humans and have urged the public to avoid alarmist messaging. While periodic monitoring of local waterfowl had previously yielded negative results, the current situation has triggered heightened surveillance and coordination between agricultural and health departments.