It’s flu season, and it’s time to get vaccinated—even elephants! At the Fort Worth Zoo, a juvenile elephant has received a groundbreaking mRNA vaccine targeting EEHV-1A (elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus), a fatal viral infection that impacts young elephants both in managed care and in the wild. The elephants undergo weekly blood and mucus tests to monitor for infection risks.
How do the zookeepers train them to “blow their trunks,” you ask? With a harmonica, of course!
This unique and charming training method helps baby elephants practice the act of “blowing their nose” and they’re rewarded with a treat! You can watch the Fort Worth Zoo’s delightful UGC video of the baby elephants playing harmonica and blowing their trunks HERE.
Brazos, a three-year-old Asian elephant, recently became the first to receive the EEHV-1A vaccine without having pre-existing antibodies—a monumental step toward preventing EEHV-related deaths in elephants. Kids and adults with a fear of needles can find inspiration in watching elephants as they voluntarily prepare for their own vaccinations.