Summary
Researchers have developed a new vaccine to protect young elephants from a deadly virus called elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV). In tests with adult elephants, the vaccine was safe and helped the animals' immune systems fight the virus. The goal is to use this vaccine to save young elephants, who are most at risk from this disease.
Key Facts
- A new vaccine has been developed to prevent a virus called EEHV, deadly to young elephants.
- The vaccine was created by an international team of researchers.
- The vaccine was tested on adult elephants at Chester Zoo and found to be safe and effective at activating the immune system.
- EEHV is a major cause of death in young Asian elephants, with over 80% of juvenile cases resulting in death.
- Chester Zoo has lost seven baby elephants to EEHV in the past decade.
- The virus causes a bleeding disease that can be fatal within 24 hours.
- The vaccine was made using a method similar to one for another elephant virus, cowpox.
- Researchers now aim to test the vaccine in younger elephants.
