The Regional Livestock Office 5 has clarified the cause behind the deaths of 72 tigers at the Tiger Kingdom facilities in Chiang Mai, confirming laboratory findings of canine distemper virus and Mycoplasma bacterial infection. Officials have emphasised that the outbreak is not avian influenza and poses no risk of transmission to humans.
According to an official statement, the deaths occurred between 8th and 18th February 2026 at the zoo operations run by Tiger Kingdom Co., Ltd. A total of 72 tigers died, including 21 at the Mae Rim facility and 51 at the Mae Taeng facility.
Dr Peerapol Noinafai, Regional Livestock Officer 5, and Dr Anusorn Homkhachorn, Chiang Mai Provincial Livestock Officer, revealed that veterinary teams conducted pathological sampling from 13th February 2026 onwards. Laboratory analysis found no genetic material of avian influenza virus (AIV). However, testing confirmed infection from two primary causes: canine distemper virus (CDV) and Mycoplasma bacteria, both of which significantly contributed to illness and mortality among the tigers.
Canine distemper is a highly contagious viral disease spread through direct contact with bodily secretions and airborne transmission. It severely affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. Meanwhile, Mycoplasma bacteria are transmitted by vectors such as ticks, fleas, and stable flies, causing anaemia by destroying red blood cells. Stress from captivity and sudden weather changes were identified as contributing factors, with co-infection from both virus and bacteria leading to more severe symptoms and higher mortality, said the office rep.
Authorities have officially confirmed that the disease cannot be transmitted from animals to humans. All animal handlers and staff have undergone health checks and were found to be in normal health.
Remaining tigers have been relocated to an animal care centre in Mae Taeng district, while the Mae Rim branch has been ordered closed for 14 days to allow for deep cleaning and disinfection in accordance with epidemiological standards. Reopening will be considered once the situation stabilises.
The outbreak began on 8th February 2026, when 33 tigers initially showed signs of lethargy and illness. The disease then spread rapidly, with deaths occurring continuously over the following days. The most critical period was between 12th and 13th February, when 45 tigers died within just two days.
As of now, 44 tigers remain at the Mae Rim facility and 130 at Mae Taeng.
CityNews reporters visiting the Mae Rim site found the facility still closed to unauthorised personnel. Management is expected to issue an official statement with further details soon.
