Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus

Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) is a serious viral disease affecting primarily young elephants, in which it can cause a rapidly progressing and often fatal haemorrhagic illness. The virus primarily infects vascular endothelial cells, leading to vascular damage, haemorrhage and organ failure. Affected animals may display symptoms such as apathy, loss of appetite, swelling of the head and trunk, mucosal haemorrhage, fever or sudden death. The most significant types are EEHV1, which is most commonly associated with severe disease in Asian elephants, and EEHV2, which is more common in African elephants. Like other herpesviruses, EEHV remains latent in the body for life and can be reactivated during periods of stress or when the immune system is compromised. Diagnosis is primarily carried out using PCR testing, which enables the early detection of infection and the initiation of intensive treatment, which can significantly increase the affected animal’s chances of survival. Given the very rapid progression of the disease, early diagnosis is crucial, particularly in young animals kept in zoos and rescue centres.