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Elephant Herpesvirus Vaccine Triggers Strong Immune Response in First Adult Trial

Researchers call for calf trials in Asian range countries to test whether vaccination prevents deadly EEHV.

Overview

  • A peer‑reviewed proof‑of‑concept study in Nature Communications reports a vaccine against elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus was safe in adult elephants at Chester Zoo.
  • The heterologous two‑step regimen used a viral vector priming dose followed by a protein‑plus‑adjuvant booster.
  • No side effects were observed, and immune analyses showed robust activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells.
  • Whole‑transcriptome, systems‑immunology profiling mapped antiviral pathways, marking a first for immune monitoring in elephants.
  • With young calves most at risk and past deaths documented at Chester Zoo, the team plans efficacy trials in calves and studies in range countries to assess real‑world protection.