What is Tuberculosis: Mycobacterium pinnipedii? Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infectious disease that affects the lungs and without treatment can be fatal. Mycobacterium pinnipedii causes TB in New Zealand sea lion/pakake adults (Phocarctos hookeri) and New Zealand fur seal/kekeno adults (Arctocephalus forsteri).
How is Tuberculosis: Mycobacterium pinnipedii spread? The primary route of infection in sea lions and fur seals is inhalation. Transmission is likely enhanced by sea lions and fur seals living in colonies and forming harems during breeding season (December/January).
How serious is Tuberculosis: Mycobacterium pinnipedii? TB is the most common cause of death in sub-adult and adult New Zealand sea lions. Between 1999 – 2017, 1,908 marine mammals were examined at Massey University, of which 1304/1908 (68%) were sea lions and TB was attributed to 27/31 (87%) of their deaths. In 2019, a study of 112 sea lions deaths found that 37% were caused by tuberculosis due to M. pinnipedii.
What should you do if you detect it? TB is difficult to detect in sea lions and fur seals, as clinical signs are usually absent or nonspecific. In other wildlife, advanced cases of TB may show emaciation, shortness of breath, and coughing. If you believe a seal in Aotearoa New Zealand may have TB, contact:
- Department of Conservation: 0800 362 468
- New Zealand Sea Lion Trust: info@sealiontrust.org.nz
Most importantly – avoid contact with infected animals. TB can infect humans.