TILLAMOOK, Ore. (AP) — Marine mammal experts are warning people to stay away from sea lions they may find dead on a beach.
KGW-TV reports at least two more dead sea lions were found over the weekend on Oregon beaches. The animals may carry a bacterial disease — called leptospirosis — that can be spread to dogs and people. In people it causes flulike symptoms — fever, chills and headaches.
The disease can be spread on contact with a sick or dead California sea lion or its waste.
Keith Chandler with the Stranding Network says if you see a dead sea lion on the beach, give it a wide berth, especially if you have a pet with you.
