We have heard of bird flu and swine flu but now scientists are warning of seal flu.

This new virus known as the H3N8 strain was identified in American harbour seals.

It has the potential to be passed onto other mammals including humans.

It was discovered following the deaths of 162 American harbour seals last year.

Dr. John McCauley is the director of the National Institute for Medical Research at the World Health Organisation (WHO).

He says we need to be on our guard.