Rare Rodent-Borne Virus Causes Death of Shankar, Lone African Elephant at Delhi Zoo
Shankar, the 29-year-old lone African elephant at Delhi's National Zoological Park, died on September 17 due to encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), a rare rodent-borne disease. The virus causes sudden death with no visible symptoms and was confirmed by an autopsy conducted by Indian Veterinary Research Institute experts. The elephant had lived in solitary confinement since 2012, and rodent control challenges at the open enclosure are considered a possible source of infection.
Shankar, the only African elephant at the Delhi Zoo, died at age 29 from encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), an acute, rare viral disease transmitted mainly through rodent contamination of food and water. Identified post-mortem by the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), the virus is known to affect various zoo animals globally but had not previously been reported in Indian zoos. Shankar showed mild symptoms on the morning of his death, such as reduced appetite for leaves and loose stools, but no severe or visible signs were observed prior to his sudden collapse around 7:25 pm on September 17, despite veterinary treatment. Experts found heart lesions typical of viral infections during the autopsy, ruling out other diseases. The Delhi Zoo noted challenges in controlling rodents in open enclosures, referencing the elephant’s diet and environmental exposure. Shankar had been living in solitary confinement since 2012 after separation from Asian elephants, a condition criticized by activists for impacting his mental and physical health. The zoo faced scrutiny over his care, including suspension by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 2024 due to welfare concerns. There is no vaccine for EMCV, and its rapid onset complicates diagnosis and prevention. The zoo remains closed following an avian influenza outbreak, while authorities continue investigations into Shankar’s death.
