Emergence of Highly Fatal Endotheliotropic Elephant Herpesviruses and Evaluation of its Shedding Among Asian Elephants, India

IEF About Elephants

This project conducted a thorough epidemiological investigation of the EEHV infections in both free ranging and captive Asian Elephants in the study area. Researchers detected subclinical EEHV infection amongst in situ Asian elephants and they detected EEHV1, EEHV3 or EEHV4, and EEHV5, but not EEHV2 or EEHV6. Data generated from this project is invaluable in our understanding of the prevalence and history of EEHV1 infection in Asian elephants in range countries. This project also focused on identifying and evaluating the extent of emergence of EEHV, risk factors and risk groups involved helping to formulate management strategies for the future conservation of Asian elephants.

IEF #1010

Project Years: 2011 – 2013

Project Partners:
Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Arun Zachariah