Challenge       

Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) is responsible for high juvenile mortality in elephants under human care. However, the prevalence, dynamics, and health impacts of latent or subclinical infections in free-ranging African elephant populations remain poorly understood, limiting efforts to develop predictive and preventative strategies.

Solution 

This project applies validated and adapted serological assays to screen wild African elephants for antibodies to EEHV. It investigates the potential for asymptomatic shedding and evaluates diagnostic tool performance under field conditions, providing insights into the silent circulation of the virus.

Impact      

This work will contribute significantly to conservation decision-making by identifying whether wild populations harbour latent EEHV infections and pose a risk for transmission, especially during translocation and rehabilitation. By enabling non-invasive, field-adapted diagnostics, the project advances health monitoring for both in situ and ex situ elephant populations. The findings will inform policy on quarantine, breeding, and release strategies, with broader implications for managing herpesvirus threats across elephant ranges.

Partners

Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST)

Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (Namibia)

Lin-Mari de Klerk-Lorist (State veterinarian, Kruger National Park)