Source: Fortune.com
Summary
Thai officials reported that 72 tigers in two animal parks in northern Thailand died due to a canine distemper virus (CDV) infection, rather than bird flu. The Public Health Minister assured that there has been no animal-to-human infection case. The tigers became sick and died between February 8-18. Autopsies found genetic material of CDV and bacterial infection, but no avian influenza type A virus. Authorities are monitoring the health of people who had contact with the animals.
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The numbers tell one story.
The Thai government’s swift response to the tiger deaths seems to prioritize reassuring the public that the virus doesn’t affect humans. The Public Health Minister’s statement that “there has not been an animal-to-human infection case” is a clear attempt to alleviate concerns. However, a veterinarian involved in the necropsies expressed concern that the origins of the infections remain unclear. The fact that both parks, run under the name of Tiger Kingdom, remain closed raises questions about the potential source of the infection.
One thing is certain: the Thai authorities are taking a cautious approach to the situation, with the Public Health Ministry director urging Thais to be careful with their consumption of poultry.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the government’s messaging is focused on containing public concern, rather than containing the virus itself.
Author: Evan Null
