Thailand monitors the health of 108 people after the mass death of 72 tigers

According to a report dated February 23 from Khaosodhealth officials are strictly monitoring the group of employees working at two tourist facilities in Mae Rim and Mae Taeng. These people directly cared for or had close contact with tigers during the period February 8-19. The monitoring process lasts a minimum of 21 days to eliminate any risk of infection from animals to humans. To date, authorities have not recorded any cases of unusual symptoms.

The epidemic started on February 8 at the Mae Taeng facility with 31 tigers falling ill at the same time, then spread, causing a total of 72 deaths at two tourist destinations. Clinical test results on February 20 confirmed that the patient samples were positive for the Care disease virus (Canine Distemper Virus – CDV) combined with Mycoplasma bacteria. To prevent the spread of pathogens, authorities cremated and buried all tiger corpses on the spot, strictly prohibiting the removal of any parts such as skin or teeth.

Although the Department of Livestock Development determined that the main cause was the Care virus, local experts still questioned this conclusion. Some veterinarians in Chiang Mai believe that the virus can enter through contaminated food sources and recommend expanding testing to rule out other diseases such as feline panleukopenia or avian flu. Authorities confirmed that they are urgently analyzing food samples and conducting additional epidemiological investigations to clarify the cause.

Care disease is a dangerous infectious disease that attacks the respiratory, digestive and nervous systems. It is common in dogs but can be transmitted to wild animals. The virus is spread through direct contact, droplets or contaminated surfaces, causing high mortality in unvaccinated animals. World health organizations have not yet recorded evidence of this virus spreading to humans.

However, the Thai Ministry of Public Health still maintains the highest level of warning. The agency recommends that people avoid contact with sick animals, eat boiled food and drink boiled food, and wash their hands regularly. Currently, the government has blocked related facilities, set up disinfection stations and specially monitored 124 living tigers. Attractions will only reopen when the outbreak is completely controlled.