BREAKING NEWS: Houston has launched a groundbreaking mRNA vaccine that could save baby elephants from a deadly herpesvirus. Developed by the Houston Zoo and Baylor College of Medicine, this innovative shot shows promise in protecting vulnerable juvenile Asian elephants from the often-fatal EEHV (Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus), which has plagued these animals in human care.
The vaccine, first administered at the Houston Zoo on June 18, 2024, has been successfully used at multiple U.S. zoos. Early reports reveal that two vaccinated calves at the Cincinnati Zoo, named Sanjay and Kabir, who tested positive for EEHV, have now tested negative after receiving the vaccine. This is a remarkable development in elephant conservation, as it indicates that the vaccine can prevent the progression of this severe disease.
Veterinarians are optimistic about the vaccine’s potential. According to zoo staff, the calves developed strong antibody responses and cleared low-level infections without severe complications. This could change the landscape of elephant care, as EEHV has been a leading cause of death among juvenile elephants in captivity.
The vaccine’s development stems from a partnership between the Houston Zoo and virologist Dr. Paul Ling at Baylor College of Medicine. The collaboration began following the tragic loss of a young calf named Mac to EEHV. The initial dose was given to Tess, a 40-year-old Asian elephant, and her health and antibody levels have been closely monitored ever since.
As news of Houston’s success spreads, other accredited institutions are joining this vital effort. The Fort Worth Zoo has vaccinated its calf, Brazos, with two doses, while the Syracuse’s Rosamond Gifford Zoo is participating by vaccinating its rare twin calves. Researchers are collecting blood samples to track immune responses, contributing to a growing body of evidence that supports the vaccine’s effectiveness.
Why does this matter? EEHV has a high fatality rate in symptomatic cases and has devastated juvenile Asian elephant populations. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums and conservation groups believe that an effective vaccine could significantly reduce mortality rates and transform how endangered herds are protected.
While the program is still in its early stages, researchers emphasize the need for more data, production capacity, and coordinated protocols before a wider rollout. However, early outcomes are encouraging, and partners, including funders like Colossal Biosciences, are hopeful that this groundbreaking research could eventually aid not just animals in captivity but also wild populations at risk.
With monitoring expanding and more animals being added to the trial, Houston’s long-standing dedication to elephant conservation may soon become a global strategy against a disease that threatens the future of Asian elephants.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as researchers continue to monitor the vaccine’s impact and efficacy.
