Development of Next Generation Serology Assays for EEHV Infection in Asian and African Elephants

Acute elephant endotheliotropic herpes virus attacks blood vessels, the heart and other organs and is prevalent in young elephants. It is responsible for the deaths of 20% of all captive-born calves in North America.Researchers developed an improved, more sensitive blood test that will detect antibodies against multiple EEHV proteins. This test provides a much-needed tool to evaluate the prevalence of infection in elephants. Such a test also helps determine whether prior infection with one strain of EEHV protects against infection by other strains.

IEF #EX1015

Project Years: 2011 – 2013

Project Partners:
Morris Animal Foundation, Fort Worth Zoo, National Elephant Herpesvirus Laboratory at the National Zoo, Johns Hopkins University