Delhi Elephant Dies of Rodent-Borne Heart Virus

Shankar, a 29-year-old African elephant at Delhi’s National Zoological Park, was found dead on September 17 and an autopsy by the Indian Veterinary Research Institute identified encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) — a rodent-borne pathogen that inflames the heart — as the cause. Officials say Shankar’s case is the first recorded elephant death from EMCV in India; the virus spreads via rodent faeces and urine and has caused sudden deaths in captive animals worldwide. Shankar had spent much of his life isolated after his companion died, and campaigners had long petitioned the courts to move him to an elephant rehabilitation sanctuary. Attempts to reintegrate him with other elephants reportedly failed, and the zoo’s director did not answer questions about whether there was a rodent problem or other biosecurity lapses. The circumstances have reignited concerns about animal welfare, pest control and enforcement of rules limiting solitary confinement of elephants in India.