Asian elephant at Columbus Zoo diagnosed with potentially fatal virus

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A 13-year-old Asian elephant at an Ohio zoo was diagnosed with a potentially fatal virus on Thursday, officials said.

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Beco, who resides at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, tested positive for active Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus, a life-threatening health issue for some elephants, zoo officials said in a news release.

In severe cases, a high virus level in an elephant can cause progressive hemorrhagic or bleeding that can be fatal, WCMH-TV reported.

“Knowing that EEHV is a threat to all young elephants that have not built an immunity to the virus, the zoo’s care team uses the latest EEHV detection and testing protocols and consistently monitors our elephants, including Frankie, who just turned 1 year old,” Jen Fields, a spokesperson for the zoo, said in a statement. “Before (Thursday), Beco’s most recent blood work was normal.”

Since his diagnosis, Beco has been constantly monitored by zoo officials and is receiving antiviral medication and other treatments, WSYX-TV reported.

“Beco is in good hands with our dedicated and talented Animal Health and pachyderm experts,” Fields said in a statement. “We are grateful for the extra support from a slew of scientists, academic and zoo professionals from across the country -- all contributing expertise and guidance to our teams.

“Beco and his army of devoted caretakers have a long road ahead of them. The course of this disease is unpredictable, but we are cautiously optimistic.”

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