Vaccine breakthrough for deadly elephant virus
21 hours ago
- #wildlife conservation
- #veterinary science
- #endangered species
- Researchers developed a new vaccine to prevent the deadly elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), a leading cause of death in young Asian elephants.
- The vaccine was tested on adult elephants at Chester Zoo, proving safe and effective in activating the immune system to fight the virus.
- EEHV causes a haemorrhagic disease, fatal in over 80% of juvenile elephant cases, with more than 100 deaths recorded in zoos and sanctuaries.
- The vaccine uses a structure similar to the cowpox vaccine, incorporating EEHV proteins to trigger an immune response.
- Initial trials showed the vaccine stimulates T-cell production, crucial for fighting viral infections, with plans to test it on younger elephants next.
- The research represents a significant advancement in protecting endangered species through vaccine development.