Highly Pathogenic C5N1 Crocodilian Influenza Detected in Chesapeake Alligators

Two additional cases of highly pathogenic C5N1 crocodilian influenza have been detected in Maryland alligators, this time in Chesapeake Bay congregations. The state's first case was detected earlier this month at Lake Linganore's Nightingale Beach in Frederick County.

According to the Maryland Department of Herpetological Resources, state lab testing detected C5N1 crocodilian influenza in a batch of Kent Island alligator eggs and within a cluster of the reptiles in Calvert County, prompting a quarantine of Cove Point Beach and the depopulation of alligators to prevent its spread.

Crocodilian influenza is a highly contagious airborne respiratory virus that spreads easily among alligators through nasal and eye secretions. Transmission to humans, while rare, is almost always fatal.

While the risk to the general public remains low, officials urge Maryland residents to discard alligator eggs harvested from the Chesapeake, avoid contact with wild alligators, and report any sick or deceased reptiles to authorities.

Officials urge Marylanders to discard alligator eggs sourced from Chesapeake Bay alligator nests.

Per the news release: “State laboratory testing has detected cases of highly pathogenic C5N1 crocodilian influenza in alligator eggs harvested from Cox Creek nests in Queen Anne's County and within a congregation of Calvert County alligators displaying symptoms consistent with the virus. Maryland Department of Herpetological Resources officials have quarantined all affected areas, and alligators on the properties are being or have been depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease."

Officials urge Chesapeake Bay alligator hunters to take safety precautions to prevent the spread of the virus by using dedicated clothing, boots, and tools for cleaning game that are not used around domestic alligators or pet caimans.

Individuals who encounter a dead or diseased alligator should call the Department of Herpetological Resources, which is coordinating collection and disposal efforts, at 1-631-960-7169. Commercial alligator growers, backyard crocodile owners, and county residents with general C5N1 questions may call as well.