Tue Nov 18 14:10:11 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
A Hemorrhagic Septicemia (HS) outbreak has killed 31 blackbucks at the Belagavi Zoo in Karnataka, India. The state government has initiated quarantine and biosecurity measures to contain the spread, including segregating the remaining seven blackbucks, disinfecting the zoo and surrounding areas, and alerting cattle rearers. Forest officials are consulting with experts in Gujarat, where a similar incident occurred. A team of experts from Bangalore has also treated the blackbucks. Minister Satish Jarkiholi visited the zoo, received updates from officials, and confirmed that all necessary precautions are being taken to protect other animals in the zoo. The primary focus is preventing the disease from escalating into an epidemic.
News Article:
Hemorrhagic Septicemia Outbreak Kills 31 Blackbucks at Belagavi Zoo; Quarantine Implemented
Belagavi, India – November 18, 2025 – Authorities in Karnataka have launched emergency quarantine protocols at the Belagavi Zoo after a deadly outbreak of Hemorrhagic Septicemia (HS), a bacterial infection, claimed the lives of 31 blackbucks.
The state government has ordered a complete quarantine and implementation of biosecurity measures in an effort to contain the spread of the highly contagious disease. The remaining seven blackbucks have been isolated in a separate area of the zoo, where they are receiving veterinary care and preventative medication.
“Our priority is to prevent further spread of the infection, both within the zoo and to the surrounding communities,” stated Chief Conservator of Forests Manjunath Chauhan. “We are using village heralders to inform cattle rearers and shepherds about the outbreak and advising them to disinfect their livestock.” Disinfectant spraying is ongoing throughout the zoo and in nearby areas.
Officials are drawing on lessons learned from a previous HS incident in Gujarat. “We are in contact with our counterparts in Gujarat and are implementing similar strategies, in addition to established protocols,” Chauhan added.
The Zoo Authority of Karnataka is coordinating with various departments to ensure a comprehensive response. “HS is a serious threat capable of causing widespread animal deaths. We are taking every precaution to prevent an epidemic,” warned Sunil Panwar, Member Secretary of the Zoo Authority.
Minister Satish Jarkiholi visited the zoo today to assess the situation and receive updates from officials. He emphasized the importance of protecting the remaining animals. “I have been assured that all necessary steps are being taken, including treatment and monitoring by a team of expert veterinarians from Bangalore, to control the disease,” Jarkiholi told reporters.
Authorities are investigating the source of the outbreak and are committed to safeguarding the health of all animals within the Belagavi Zoo. The situation remains under close observation.
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