Thai authorities said on Tuesday that the deaths of 72 tigers at two tourist animal parks in northern Thailand were caused by canine distemper virus (CDV), not bird flu, and pose no risk to human health.
The tigers died over a ten-day period between February 8 and 18 at facilities in the Mae Taeng and Mae Rim areas of Chiang Mai province. Laboratory tests and autopsies found evidence of CDV and some bacterial infection, but no traces of avian influenza.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said no human infections have been detected so far. However, health officials are monitoring people who may have had close contact with the animals as a precaution.
Officials from the Livestock Development Department said the dead tigers were examined, disinfected, cremated and buried to prevent the spread of disease. CDV mainly affects dogs and wild cats and can be particularly deadly for tigers, especially in enclosed settings where stress and inbreeding may weaken immunity.
Veterinarian Visit Arsaithamkul, who took part in the examinations, said the source of the infection is still under investigation. He noted that shared food supplies could be a possible factor, as the two parks are located close to each other.
Both Tiger Kingdom parks have been closed following the incident. Authorities also advised the public to remain cautious when handling poultry, as bird flu continues to be monitored in the region due to past outbreaks in Thailand and neighbouring countries.
-20260223082704.webp)
-20260220065859.jpeg)
-20260224075258.webp)
-20260224065127.webp)
-20260223074941.jpeg)
-20260218060047.jpeg)
-20260219054530.webp)
