72 tigers die in Chiang Mai amid distemper outbreak

2026-02-23 - 03:03

CHIANG MAI — 23 February 2026, Authorities are monitoring sick tigers at two facilities in Chiang Mai after 72 animals died in an outbreak officials say was caused by canine distemper virus (CDV). Sources familiar with the investigation said close attention is being paid to infected tigers undergoing treatment at facilities in Mae Rim and Mae Taeng districts to determine whether additional deaths occur. Laboratory tests are also pending on animal feed supplied to the sites. Duk-Dae, a tiger at one of the facilities, was nearly 10 years old when he died from canine distemper Officials from the Department of Livestock Development have maintained that the deaths were caused by CDV. However, some veterinarians in Chiang Mai have urged a more detailed investigation before a final conclusion is announced, calling for comprehensive testing to rule out other diseases such as feline distemper or avian influenza. A Facebook user identifying as “Visit Arsaithamkul,” who claims to be a zoo and wildlife veterinarian and part of the on-site response team in Mae Rim and Mae Taeng, posted a detailed account of the incident, expressing concern about the situation. Several local veterinarians told reporters they believe the virus may have been introduced through contaminated food. They alleged that authorities may be attempting to minimise potential economic fallout by framing the outbreak under a specific diagnosis, a claim that has fuelled public debate. Officials have not commented on that allegation. What is Canine distemper? Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs and can also infect wildlife, including tigers. It attacks the respiratory, digestive and nervous systems, causing high fever, vomiting, severe diarrhoea and neurological complications, and carries a high mortality rate in unvaccinated animals. The virus spreads through direct contact, airborne droplets and contaminated food or surfaces, particularly in captive settings. Health authorities say it is not known to infect humans. Relevant agencies have stepped up disease control measures after tigers at facilities in Chiang Mai gradually fell ill and died. Authorities confirmed that 72 tigers died from canine distemper, with genetic material from canine distemper virus (CDV) and Mycoplasma spp. detected in laboratory tests. All carcasses were disposed of by incineration and burial on-site under strict supervision. Officials said the tigers were protected wildlife, each implanted with a microchip and registered. They confirmed that no body parts could be used for any purpose due to the infection risk. Multiple personnel are required to move the tigers due to their size At the Mae Taeng facility, entry has been restricted to authorised personnel only. Staff and vehicles entering or leaving must undergo disinfection. Provincial livestock officers are disinfecting enclosures and surrounding areas. Human health monitoring The Department of Disease Control said 108 people who had close contact with the tigers between 8 and 19 February are being monitored. No illnesses or abnormal symptoms have been reported, but health surveillance will continue for at least 21 days, in line with disease monitoring guidelines. Authorities said some wildlife diseases can be transmitted to humans and urged the public to avoid contact with sick animals or animal secretions. The Public Health Ministry advised people to eat thoroughly cooked food, wash hands frequently with soap or alcohol gel, and avoid directly handling or feeding animals at zoos or animal facilities. Officials said the facilities plan to reopen once the outbreak is fully contained. The Department of Disease Control said it will continue providing updates. Members of the public with concerns can call the hotline at 1422. Breakdown of deaths Of the 72 tigers that died: 21 were at the Mae Rim facility 51 were at the Mae Taeng facility A total of 124 tigers remain. The outbreak began on 8 February 2026, when 31 tigers at the Mae Taeng facility showed signs of illness. The first death was reported on 9 February. Laboratory confirmation of canine distemper was received on 20 February 2026. Authorities said investigations, including laboratory analysis, necropsies and epidemiological inquiries, are ongoing to determine the precise cause and risk factors behind the outbreak. While authorities have not confirmed the source, some veterinarians suspect contaminated food, noting that tigers at two separate facilities were affected