Research: "Canine Distemper Virus" killing endangered tigers, red pandas and lions

January 8, 2014

As per researchers at Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) in Bareilly, the infection caused by the Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) is killing endangered tigers, red pandas and lions in the country. The disease has been detected in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Patna Zoo and many areas of West Bengal and Darjeeling.

What is Canine Distemper Virus(CDV)?

Canine Distemper Virus(CDV) is a disease causing virus common in domestic dogs and ferrets, although it can infect wild animals as well.

How does Canine Distemper Virus(CDV) affects animals?

CDV impacts different systems of the body including nervous and respiratory system in these animals. It shatters the immunity system and causes various secondary bacterial infections.
As this disease damages the brain of the animal, it severely affects their decision making power. Due to this, the animals go beyond their natural habitat and enter human settlements. It renders them easy prey for poachers.

How does the infection of Canine Distemper Virus(CDV) occur?

Activities of direct contact like licking are the major source of CDV transmission among tigers, lions and red pandas. Besides this, eating dogs infected with the virus, drinking water from same source are some other modes of transmission of infection.