BAREILLY: A report prepared by scientists at Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) here on canine distemper virus (CDV) in different wildlife species across the country from 2012 to 2017 has stated that of the total 98 samples from lions analysed here, 54 were found to be infected. Similarly, 11 tigers, 17 leopards, 2 red pandas and one sample each of palm civet cat, jungle cat and jackal were found CDV-positive.

AK Sharma, principal scientist and in-charge of Centre for Wildlife, IVRI told TOI, "We have analysed blood samples and tissues of only those cases of species in forests and zoos which were received by us. However, as CDV is highly fatal for animals, there is a need to conduct a countrywide study of animals in zoos and forests to know the real status. If the virus is maintained in certain species, it will be threatening for felids (big cats).” The report has been submitted to central zoo authority.

According to scientists, CDV can spread from one animal to another and the infected animal excretes the virus through all bodily fluids, including urine as well as larvae from the mouth. The virus also spreads if any big cat eats the meat of an infected animal. "In one of the tiger reserves in the country, 18 dogs in the fringe area were found infected with CDV. The major sources of the virus are stray dogs in and around forests, but other species like jungle cat, palm civet cat, jackal and red panda may be potent sources of the virus among wild felids," added Sharma.

RK Singh, director, IVRI said, "The movement of dogs in fringe areas of forest is a matter of concern. All dogs moving in and round forests should be vaccinated."

Scientists said the vaccination available for dogs was not recommended for big cats. "There is presently no vaccine for CDV for felids available in the country. However, a vaccine available in US is recommended for big cats, who should be administered with it regularly. Big cats should be vaccinated once every three months," said Sharma.

CDV affects different systems of the body including nervous and respiratory system in these animals. It breaks down the immune system and causes various secondary bacterial infections which lead to death. "As this disease damages the brain, it badly affects the animals’ decision-making power. Due to this, the animals go beyond their natural habitat and enter human settlements. It makes them an easy prey for poachers," added Sharma.

