Asian elephant Man Jai, 9, died after being identified with the incurable illness Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV), the zoo stated.
The illness solely impacts elephants and often the creatures naturally carry the virus with out signs, the zoo stated.
Occasionally an infection can “reactivate” and often kills, the zoo stated.
Vets battled to save lots of Man Jai after he turned unwell, the zoo stated, but it surely was not attainable.
“On Monday his specialised keepers, who monitor the herd closely and frequently for signs of this disease, noticed swelling in his neck and uncharacteristic lethargy,” the zoo stated.
“Man Jai was immediately tested by Melbourne Zoo veterinarians for EEHV, with blood tests confirming a positive diagnosis and urgent anti-viral treatment being administered.
“Despite Melbourne Zoo’s veterinary and keeper experience, and around-the-clock care, Man Jai tragically misplaced his life to the virus within the early hours of this morning.
“Melbourne Zoo staff, volunteers and, in particular, Man Jai’s keeper team, many of whom have cared for him since he was born, are devastated by the loss.”
Director of Melbourne Zoo Sheri Horiszny stated many guests could have particular reminiscences of Man Jai, who was born in December 2013.
“Man Jai was playful, joyful and adored by his herd and all who knew him,” Horiszny stated.
“We are deeply affected by the loss of such a spectacular elephant, and we will all miss him so much.
“It’s arduous to search out the phrases to share how tough that is for all of the keepers who taken care of him for his entire life and labored tirelessly to attempt to save him.
“Our focus now is to continue closely monitoring the rest of the elephant herd, which is also grieving.”
Melbourne Zoo Trail of the Elephants is closed to guests after the unhappy loss of life.
Asian Elephants will be present in Sri Lanka, Laos, Thailand, Burma, China, Malaysia, India, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia.
There are fewer than 53,000 remaining in Asia, and the wild inhabitants is lowering.
Source: www.9news.com.au
