A young Asian elephant named Jet, residing at the Saint Louis Zoo, has recently received his third dose of a pioneering vaccine designed to protect against a highly lethal virus known as elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV). This crucial development took place on September 30, with Jet being the first elephant at the zoo to undergo this innovative mRNA vaccination programme.
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At just one and a half years old, Jet has become a focal point in efforts to combat EEHV, a virus with a mortality rate that can soar to 80% among juvenile elephants. The deadly disease it induces is currently recognised as the primary cause of death in young elephants throughout North America. The significance of Jet’s vaccination cannot be understated, especially given that it arrives eight years after the tragic loss of Kenzi, another Asian elephant at the zoo, who succumbed to the same virus.
Dr Kari Musgrave, the Saint Louis Zoo’s director of animal health, expressed her enthusiasm for this critical advancement in veterinary science. “This vaccination is a critical step forward in the decades-long effort to protect Asian elephants from EEHV,” she stated. Her sentiment was echoed by Katie Pilgram-Kloppe, a curator at the zoo, who underscored the emotional weight behind Jet’s vaccination, remarking, “I can’t describe how it feels to know that Jet has an extra layer of protection against the virus that has threatened his species for decades.”
Jet was initially vaccinated on May 27, and his third dose marks a major milestone in his immunisation journey. The vaccine offers him additional protection while his natural maternal antibodies, which he received at birth, gradually diminish over time. Experts believe that the vaccine will help Jet build his own immune response should he be exposed to the virus in the future.
Veterinary teams at the zoo are carefully monitoring Jet’s health, conducting regular blood tests to check his antibody levels and ensure he is maintaining sufficient immunity. The ongoing assessments are crucial given the high stakes associated with EEHV, especially for young elephants who are particularly vulnerable.
The development of the vaccine is the result of collaborative efforts that began in 2009 between researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and veterinarians at the Houston Zoo. In 2024, adult elephants at the Houston Zoo were the first to receive doses of the vaccine. Over the last two years, numerous zoos across North America have adopted this vaccine, with initial research yielding promising results. The optimism surrounding its effectiveness offers hope for the future of elephant conservation.
In addition to his vaccination journey, Jet is noted for his lively personality. He enjoys exploring his surroundings, indulging in playful activities like running and climbing, a behaviour that speaks to his curious nature. The team at the Saint Louis Zoo is keen to reinforce these playful habits, utilising training methods to ensure his well-being and continued health.
Jet represents not only a significant advancement in wildlife healthcare but also a commitment to safeguarding the future of Asian elephants. As conservationists and veterinarians continue to work tirelessly to combat the challenges posed by EEHV, Jet stands as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of a formidable threat to his species. The Saint Louis Zoo’s efforts, combined with the enthusiasm of the broader scientific community, are paving the way for a safer future for young elephants affected by this devastating virus.