Ailing killer whale swimming off B.C., Washington diagnosed with parasitic worms

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VANCOUVER – Scientists say an emaciated and endangered killer whale that’s been swimming in waters off the coasts of British Columbia and Washington state has parasitic worms and may not survive.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says on its Facebook page that biologists are standing by to deliver a dart with deworming medication to J50.

RELATED: Scientists express concern for ailing killer whale off west coast

It says the medication could also potentially be delivered in a chinook salmon, which has never before been attempted in the wild.

The administration says the nearly four-year-old whale also known as Scarlet appears lethargic at times and that options ranging from no intervention to providing medical treatment are being considered.

RELATED: Antibiotic delivered to wild killer whale in international rescue operation

It says J50’s condition was diagnosed through faecal and breath samples.

The Vancouver Aquarium’s head veterinarian Martin Haulena was able to dart the sickly whale with an antibiotic on Monday.

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