Cetacean Strandings: Public Health Risks, Safety Protocols, and Disease Transmission

Public Health Concerns Related to Stranded Marine Mammals: Prevention and Response

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Published in 01-14-2025

Cetacean Strandings

The appearance of dead whales on beaches is a tragic and complex event, with multiple factors: Diseases, aging, predators and weather conditions Photo: PROFEPA MEXICO

 

The stranding of a cetacean on a beach is an unfortunate event that requires a rapid and coordinated response. The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection PROFEPA in Mexico has a specific protocol to deal with these cases and guarantee the safety of the population and the protection of the environment.

Why is it important to follow a protocol?
Stranded cetaceans can represent a risk to public health due to the presence of pathogens. In addition, these events can have a negative impact on the marine ecosystem and the local economy.

What are the main points of the PROFEPA protocol?
Immediate notification:When finding a stranded cetacean, it is essential to notify PROFEPA immediately.
Do not manipulate the animal: Avoid touching or moving the animal, as you could become infected or damage scientific evidence.
Isolate the area:The stranding area must be delimited to avoid contact between people and animals with the cetacean.
Assessment of the animal's condition:Trained PROFEPA personnel will assess the animal's condition to determine whether it is alive or dead.
Sample collection: If the animal is dead, samples will be taken to perform analysis and determine the causes of death.
Disposition final: PROFEPA will decide the best way to dispose of the cetacean's body, considering factors such as size, site conditions and risks to public health.
Cleaning and disinfection: The stranding area will be cleaned and disinfected to eliminate any biological risk.

Cetacean Strandings

Stranded Whales: Understanding the Risks and Protecting Public Health

Photo: PROFEPA MEXICO
What are the health risks associated with strandings?
Stranded cetaceans can carry infectious diseases that can be transmitted to humans and other animals. Some of the most common risks include:

1-Bacteria: Such as salmonella and E. coli.
2-Viruses: Such as the avian influenza virus.
3-Parasites: Such as nematodes and cestodes.


How to protect yourself from the risks?
Avoid direct contact: Do not touch the animal or its bodily fluids. Use personal protective equipment: Gloves, a mask and boots are essential.
Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water after handling any object related to the stranding.

When a dead whale is found on the beach, the competent authorities must follow a specific protocol to ensure public safety, protect the environment and obtain valuable information on the cause of the animal's death. In this case, the whale is buried on the beaches of Mazatlán. Photo: PROFEPA

What can we do as citizens?

a) Report: If you find a stranded cetacean, immediately inform the relevant authorities.
b) Do not touch: Avoid handling the animal or its remains.
c) Share the information: Disseminate this type of information to raise awareness among the population about the importance of following the protocols.


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