The city of Albuquerque announced the initiation of construction for a cutting-edge DNA testing lab at ABQ BioPark, designed to offer early detection of a common yet frequently fatal elephant virus. This on-site lab will utilize PCR (polymerase chain reaction) DNA testing, enabling the rapid identification of an active EEHV infection and the specific virus type in an elephant's blood within a few hours. The endeavor aims at drastically improving both response time and treatment accuracy in these life-threatening situations.
The following is a deeper look into this monumental project. The ABQ BioPark Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, the eighth of its kind in the nation, funded by donations from the New Mexico BioPark Society and Albuquerque's Gross Receipts Tax, aims to expedite medical intervention for elephants during active virus infections. The lab will act as a regional resource for animal care experts in neighboring states, facilitating emergency testing for the EEHV virus in elephants, according to a press release by the city of Albuquerque.
Noteworthy individuals associated with this initiative have expressed their viewpoints. "This laboratory is a significant step in providing breakthrough care for our elephants," said Dr. Carol Bradford, D.V.M., DACZM, senior veterinarian at ABQ BioPark, according to a press release by the city of Albuquerque. "Through advanced science, our team will gain valuable time in treating this serious virus and helping to ensure the well-being of the rest of the herd."
Beyond local efforts, collaborations are also being forged at national levels. "Having an EEHV Point-of-Care laboratory at the ABQ BioPark will allow them to get rapid answers for EEHV samples." said Erin Latimer, lab manager at the Smithsonian’s National Elephant Herpes Lab, according to a press release by the city of Albuquerque. "This allows us to collaborate with them on complex cases and research projects; our partnership will help assure continuing excellent elephant health in the United States."
Let's delve into the context and background of this pertinent issue. The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute National Elephant Herpesvirus Laboratory conducts research on illnesses affecting elephants, including the elephant herpesvirus, identified as elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV). Researchers in this institute are responsible for identifying the virus for the first time, according to the National Elephant Herpesvirus Laboratory webpage provided by the Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.