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Tula-Tu stable as Oregon Zoo vets treat for rapidly progressing strain of elephant herpes
KATU • • general
Key Points:
- The Oregon Zoo’s baby Asian elephant, Tula-Tu, has been diagnosed with elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), a potentially life-threatening disease for young calves, and zookeepers have initiated treatment including plasma transfusions.
- Tula-Tu’s condition is currently stable with improving blood markers, but early detection remains critical as the virus can cause rapid decline; the zoo emphasizes cautious optimism about her recovery.
- EEHV is common in Asian elephants, with most developing natural immunity over time, but calves between 1 and 8 years old are highly vulnerable as maternal antibodies wane.
- Tula-Tu received an mRNA vaccine targeting EEHV-1A, but she is infected with the less common EEHV-1B strain, and it is unclear if the vaccine offers protection against this variant.
- The Oregon Zoo is actively involved in EEHV research and conservation efforts, collaborating with institutions like Oregon State University and Malaysian wildlife officials to improve diagnostics, treatment, and vaccine development for both captive and wild elephant populations.
