A recent bird flu outbreak has resulted in the deaths of several big cats in zoos across southern Vietnam.
The outbreak occurred between August and September at My Quynh Safari Park in Long An province and Vuon Xoai Zoo in Dong Nai, near Ho Chi Minh City, according to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA).
State media reported that 47 tigers, three lions, and one panther died from the H5N1 bird flu virus at the two zoos.
Tests by the National Centre for Animal Health Diagnosis confirmed that the animals were infected with the H5N1 virus. The zoos have not commented, and the VNA noted that none of the zoo staff who had contact with the infected animals showed respiratory symptoms, according to AFP.
Education for Nature Vietnam (ENV), a wildlife conservation NGO, reported that as of 2023, there are 385 tigers in captivity across Vietnam, with approximately 310 in private facilities and the rest in state-run zoos.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported an increase in fatal outbreaks among mammals caused by the H5N1 virus and other influenza strains since 2022. While the virus primarily affects birds, it can also infect mammals, including humans. Vietnam reported a human death from H5N1 in March.
In a similar case in 2004, dozens of tigers at the world’s largest breeding farm in Thailand died or were culled due to a bird flu outbreak.
Authorities are now focusing on containment efforts to prevent further outbreaks and minimize the risk of human infections.