Health authorities in Thailand are closely monitoring 108 staff members at two tourist facilities in Chiang Mai after an outbreak led to the deaths of 72 tigers. The staff, who had direct contact with the tigers at facilities in Mae Rim and Mae Taeng between 8/2 and 19/2, are undergoing a minimum 21-day surveillance period. This measure aims to prevent any potential animal-to-human transmission, though no unusual symptoms have been reported among the staff to date, according to a 23/2 report from Khaosod.

Duk-Dae, a tiger at one of the facilities, was nearly 10 years old when it died from canine distemper virus infection. Photo: Khaosod.

Duk-Dae, a tiger at one of the facilities, was nearly 10 years old when it died from canine distemper virus infection. Photo: Khaosod.

The outbreak began on 8/2 at the Mae Taeng facility, where 31 tigers fell ill simultaneously. The disease rapidly spread, resulting in a total of 72 tiger deaths across both tourist sites. Clinical tests conducted on 20/2 confirmed that samples were positive for canine distemper virus (CDV) combined with Mycoplasma bacteria. To contain the pathogen, authorities immediately cremated and buried all tiger carcasses on-site, strictly prohibiting the removal of any body parts, such as skin or teeth.

While Thailand’s Livestock Development Department identified canine distemper virus as the primary cause, local veterinary experts have raised questions about this conclusion. Some veterinarians in Chiang Mai suggest the virus might have originated from contaminated food sources and have called for broader testing to rule out other diseases, including feline panleukopenia or avian influenza. Authorities are currently analyzing food samples and conducting additional epidemiological investigations to thoroughly clarify the cause.

Many staff were mobilized to move the large tiger carcasses. Photo: Khaosod.

Many staff were mobilized to move the large tiger carcasses. Photo: Khaosod.

Canine distemper is a dangerous infectious disease that primarily affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. While common in dogs, it can also spread to wild animals. The virus transmits through direct contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces, leading to high mortality rates in unvaccinated animals. Global health organizations have not recorded any evidence of this virus transmitting to humans.

Despite the lack of human transmission evidence, Thailand’s Public Health Ministry maintains its highest alert level. The ministry advises the public to avoid contact with sick animals, ensure food is thoroughly cooked, and practice frequent handwashing. Authorities have sealed off the affected facilities, established disinfection stations, and are closely monitoring the 124 surviving tigers. The tourist attractions will only reopen once the outbreak is fully controlled.