Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV)

Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV): Recently, data from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) of India revealed that 12 wild elephants died due to EEHV between 2009 and 2021, particularly in Karnataka, Assam, and Chhattisgarh

• About EEHV : A double-stranded DNA virus causing a rapid, often fatal haemorrhagic disease in juvenile Asian and African elephants (1-12 years), with an ~85% fatality rate.

o It spreads through contact with bodily fluids and shared water or food.

o Symptoms include reduced appetite, nasal discharge, and swollen glands; some elephants carry it without symptoms.

o No cure exists as the virus remains latent; treatment focuses on antiviral drugs, fluid therapy, and immune support..

• Other Diseases Affecting Elephants: Obesity, Tuberculosis (TB), Anthrax(Bacterial infection spread via contaminated soil, water, and plants), Rabies and Haemorrhagic Septicaemia(Bacterial disease from cattle spreading through water)
• About CZA: An autonomous statutory body under the MoEFCC, established in 1992 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

o Main objective: To enforce minimum standards for animal care and upkeep in Indian zoos and provides technical and financial assistance when needed.

o All zoos in India must obtain recognition from CZA to operate legally.