It has been reported that a new form of influenza has been found by the researchers of the US. The influenza has been discovered in the harbour seals. The researchers have warned that the newly found influenza can affect the health of human and animals, if timely steps are not taken.

The influenza called, H3N8 flu, is said to have caused death of harbour seals of New England. It is believed that the virus might have circulated from birds. Researchers have warned that the newly found flu can cause unforeseen pandemic, in the coming years.

It has been informed that about 162 harbour seals succumbed to death because of the flu. Prof. Ian Lipkin from Columbia University noted, “…"It's something that's been circulating for a while in birds, but we've not had this sort of die off relating to this virus in the past”.

It has further been warned that the virus thus found can indirectly affect the protein found in the respiratory system of human. However, researchers who have studied the dead seals have not found any link which could prove the assertion of the US researchers.