Tragic Virus Outbreak Claims Lives of 7 Precious Leopard Cubs at Bengaluru's Bannerghatta Park

Bannerghatta National Park in Bengaluru faced a devastating outbreak of the Feline Panleukopenia virus, resulting in the untimely demise of seven leopard cubs aged between three and 10 months. This virus, typically associated with cats, took its toll on these precious cubs, with the outbreak first being detected on August 22 and claiming the lives of seven cubs by September 5.

Bannerghatta Park had recently introduced a leopard safari, releasing nine leopard cubs into this area. Unfortunately, three of these cubs fell victim to the infection within the safari grounds, while the remaining four lost their lives at the rehabilitation center.

The infected leopard cubs had been rescued from various locations, including Biligirirangana Hill, Mysore Zoo, and Maddur, before finding their way to Bannerghatta Biological Park's rehabilitation center. After receiving treatment, they were eventually relocated to the safari zone. Sadly, four cheetah cubs under the care of the rehabilitation center also succumbed to the virus.

Blood tests conducted in the zoo's laboratory confirmed the presence of the Feline Panleukopenia virus in the deceased leopard cubs.

Bannerghatta Biological Park's executive director, Surya Sen, emphasized that immediate precautions were taken to prevent the virus from spreading to other animals. Symptoms of the virus include a reduction in white blood cells, vomiting, and diarrhea. Isolation and treatment protocols were promptly initiated, involving antiviral medication, glucose, and booster doses. Stringent cleanliness measures were enforced, with bleach powder spread throughout the park and the incineration of cages to eliminate any trace of the virus.

Surya Sen highlighted the meticulous implementation of precautionary measures, guided by veterinary specialists like Dr. Ansar Kamran, Dr. Upendra, and Dr. Veeregowda. Booster doses were administered to tigers and lions to safeguard them. Thanks to these efforts, the infection was successfully contained.

Bannerghatta Animal Rehabilitation Centre houses 80 leopards, with strict measures in place to prevent interaction between infected leopards and other animals.

The Feline Panleucopenia virus primarily spreads among cats, both feral and domestic. Infected animals exhibit digestive problems, dysentery, and a significant decline in white blood cells, leading to exhaustion. Swift and stringent measures were adopted upon the virus's discovery on August 22, resulting in containment of the infection. Out of 12 infected wild animals, four leopard cubs, and one lion cub have successfully recovered after treatment.

In light of the Nipah outbreak in Kerala, Bannerghatta Biological Park is on high alert. The park undergoes disinfection twice daily, with heightened monitoring of bats entering the premises. Entrance and exit areas have been equipped with disinfectant solutions, and plans are underway to introduce thermal scanning for tourists in the near future.

Also Read: Kerala Battling Nipah Outbreak: Containment Zones Erected, ICMR Provides Antibody

OTT India updates you with the latest news, The Country’s no.1 digital news platform OTT India, Keeps you updated with national, and international news from all around the world. For more such updates, download the OTT India app on your Android and IOS device.