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Health of Vancouver Aquarium’s lone beluga whale deteriorates

VANCOUVER – An ailing beluga whale at the Vancouver Aquarium appears to have taken another turn for the worse.

The facility says in a news release that Aurora showed signs of improvement over the weekend, but it appears her abdominal discomfort increased Sunday night.

Officials have said the 29-year-old animal isn't eating and appears to be suffering from cramps and inflammation, though the cause of her illness is unclear.

The whale's 21-year-old calf Qila had the same symptoms and died last week, leave Aurora as the aquarium's lone beluga.

The aquarium's head veterinarian Dr. Martin Haulena has adjusted Aurora's treatment, but is increasingly concerned about her health.

Lab tests have been sent to veterinary experts around the world, and a marine mammal team is monitoring the animal around the clock.

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Kim Anderson

Originally from a northern B.C. town that boasts a giant fly fishing rod and a population of 3,100, Kim moved to Kamloops in 2011 to attend Thompson Rivers University. Kim is as comfortable behind a camera as she is writing on her laptop. After graduating with a degree in journalism, Kim has been busy with an independent freelance writing project and photography work. Contact Kim at kanderson@infonews.ca with news tips or story ideas.

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