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Tierpark Hellabrunn Reopens Enclosure After Young Elephant Otto Dies of Herpes

Preventive vaccination followed by plasma transfusions from his father Gajendra failed to halt the virus’s rapid progression

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Overview

  • Otto, born at Hellabrunn on November 11, 2020, began showing exhaustion on June 14 and tested positive for the deadly EEHV1 the following day.
  • Veterinarians vaccinated him with a new Herpes vaccine and administered 24/7 antiviral and pain treatment alongside plasma transfusions from his father Gajendra.
  • Despite intensive medical intervention, Otto’s condition declined overnight and he succumbed to the infection in the early hours of June 16.
  • The remaining elephants observed natural farewell rituals and zoo staff have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the four-year-old ambassador.
  • After reviewing animal welfare and safety protocols, Tierpark Hellabrunn reopened the elephant enclosure to visitors on June 17.