Maharashtra’s Forest Department has issued a state-wide red alert for zoos and rescue centres after avian influenza claimed the lives of three tigers and a leopard at Nagpur’s Gorewada Rescue Centre.
The rare instance of the H5N1 virus affecting wildlife in captivity has alarmed authorities.
The animals, relocated from Chandrapur to Gorewada in December due to human-animal conflict, began showing symptoms of illness within a week of their arrival.
Despite veterinary efforts, all four succumbed by December 30, confirmed Shatanik Bhagwat, Divisional Manager of the Gorewada Project.
Swabs collected from the deceased animals were sent to the ICAR-National Institute of High-Security Animal Diseases (NISHAD) in Bhopal, which confirmed the presence of the highly contagious H5N1 virus on January 1.
“None of us are aware of the source of transmission,” said Bhagwat, while adding that strict containment measures, including thorough disinfection using fire blowers, had been implemented.
The remaining 26 leopards and 12 tigers at the facility were examined and declared healthy.
The Wildlife Research and Training Centre (WRTC) noted that avian flu in wild carnivores is often linked to the consumption of infected prey.
"The virus primarily affects birds but can infect mammals, including large cats, through contact with infected birds or contaminated environments," the WRTC report stated.
To prevent further outbreaks, the Gorewada Rescue Centre has suspended operations and initiated extensive sanitisation.
Staff members have undergone medical screenings and are required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
Nearby areas have been directed to enforce biosecurity protocols and monitor wildlife for any symptoms of the virus.
An advisory from the Union Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying urged all zoos to implement the national action plan for prevention, control and containment.
"It is a highly contagious viral disease with zoonotic ramifications," read the advisory dated January 3.
NISHAD further recommended avoiding raw poultry or unverified meat sources for carnivores, enhanced biosecurity practices, and the use of nets to prevent contact between captive animals and birds. Staff were also advised to monitor themselves for flu-like symptoms.
Investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the outbreak, with teams of veterinary pathologists examining potential causes. Bhagwat assured that daily monitoring would continue until the facility is declared safe.
“We are relieved that no additional animals have shown symptoms so far,” Bhagwat stated, as containment measures continue to be enforced.
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