An investigation into an unusually high number of tiger deaths in Mae Rim district, Chiang Mai, has concluded that the animals died from disease, with authorities stressing there is no risk of transmission to humans.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives said on February 23 that laboratory testing had ruled out avian influenza, which had initially been suspected following reports that 72 tigers had died at a private facility in northern Thailand.
The findings were confirmed after an inquiry by the Department of Livestock Development.
Deputy Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Amin Mayusoh said test results indicated the presence of canine distemper virus, along with Mycoplasma, a bacterium commonly linked to respiratory infections.
The combination of the viral and bacterial infections caused severe pneumonia and related complications, ultimately leading to the deaths, he said.
Amin added that health assessments had also been carried out on personnel working at the site. Officials found no evidence that the disease could be transmitted from animals to humans, seeking to ease public concern.
He said Deputy Prime Minister and Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow had instructed relevant agencies to closely monitor the situation, strengthen disease-control measures, and ensure transparency to maintain public confidence.
The owner of the Mae Rim Tiger Park said the facility had implemented strict containment procedures, including disinfecting affected areas and disposing of carcasses in accordance with veterinary and academic guidelines.
He added that officials from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation and the livestock department had provided ongoing supervision and technical advice.
The owner also emphasised that none of the tigers that died had been used for commercial purposes.
Authorities said surveillance would continue to prevent further losses and ensure the outbreak remains contained.
