A tragic outbreak of Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) at Kanha Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) has led to the death of tigress T-141 and her four cubs. The unfortunate death of the tigress prompted forest authorities to launch an extensive emergency response and disease containment operation across the reserve’s Sarhi forest range.
According to the forest officials, the tigress and one of her cubs first displayed abnormal behaviour, following which rescue teams and wildlife veterinarians acted swiftly.
The animals were shifted for treatment under established wildlife health protocols, while biological samples were sent to the School of Wildlife Forensics and Health in Jabalpur (MP). A
Tigress in Kanha National Park infected with contagious disease
As per the officials, the tests later confirmed infection with Canine Distemper Virus, which is a highly contagious disease. As per experts, the disease commonly affects dogs but can also be spread to wild carnivores, including tigers and leopards.
Despite intensive treatment efforts, the tigress and cubs died during medical care. Earlier, the carcasses of three other cubs had already been found in the same area, confirming fears of a wider outbreak.
Large-scale sanitation measures across the National Park
Forest officials from Kanha Tiger Reserve initiated large-scale surveillance and sanitation measures. Elephant patrols have been deployed continuously in the affected zone to monitor the movement of other big cats, while 40 camera traps have been installed to detect signs of infection among carnivorous wildlife.
Water samples from reservoirs used by the tigress and her cubs, along with scat samples of carnivores, have been sent for forensic testing.
Officials have also intensified preventive measures in villages surrounding the reserve. In coordination with the district veterinary department, vaccination drives for stray and domestic dogs are underway in buffer villages to stop the spread of CDV.
Authorities confirmed that over 12,700 livestock animals across 84 villages and more than 400 dogs in nearby ranges have already been vaccinated during 2025–26. Additional dog vaccination campaigns are currently ongoing in villages connected to the Sarhi zone.
Forest officials, hotel owners and tourists put on alert
Forest staff, safari guides, hotel owners and tourism stakeholders have been instructed to report any unusual wildlife behaviour immediately. Tourist movement in sensitive zones has also been restricted, and all safari vehicles entering the reserve are being disinfected before entry.
The quarantine and treatment facility at Mukki, where the tigress and cubs were treated, has been fully sanitised as per CDV containment protocols. Forest officials stated that all guidelines issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) are being strictly followed to prevent further spread of the disease.
Authorities further addressed that monitoring in the reserve remains on high alert as efforts continue to safeguard Kanha’s tiger population from further infections.
Madhya Pradesh-based wildlife activist Ajay Dubey said, “The next few months will be challenging for the Kanha Tiger Reserve, requiring continuous monitoring of carnivores on a war footing within the reserve. Outside the reserve, the vaccination of domestic animals, particularly dogs, must be addressed with the utmost seriousness. Furthermore, the School of Wildlife Forensics, Jabalpur, should be empowered and prioritised for National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation.”