Dance, The Beloved Elephant Calf In TNTN Riau Dies Of Positive EEHV

The condition of the Dance elephant which was found dead on September 10, 2925, whose examination results were said to be positive for the herpes virus. BETWEEN THE TNTN'S ANTARA/HO-Balai

PEKANBARU - Tesso Nilo National Park (TNTN) Center, Riau, revealed the cause of death of the Kalistha Lestari elephant calf or Dance. The results of laboratory examination showed positive dance was infected with Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpes Viruses (EEZV).

The head of the TNTN Center, Heru Sutmantoro, said the virus attacks the heart organs of the Dance. EEHV is a type of herpesvirus that specifically attacks elephants, especially elephant cubs, and is known to be deadly because of its very fast spread.

"It is important to understand together, this virus is only contagious between elephants and there is no influence from visitors or human interactions," Heru said in a written statement, Antara, Monday, September 15.

Heru explained that the Elephant Flying Squad team and mahuts had provided intensive care since the Dance showed symptoms, but the life of the two-year-old female elephant calf could not be saved.

Disappearance of Dance is a deep sorrow. Hopefully this will serve as a reminder of the importance of joint efforts to protect wildlife, especially Sumatran elephants whose population is increasingly threatened," he said.

The dance was found in a lifeless condition in the Elephant Flying Squad camp area, Pelalawan, on Wednesday (10/9/2025) at 10.00 WIB. The day before, the dance looked healthy and actively played without symptoms of illness. The results of the initial examination did not find any injuries or trauma, only the stomach that looked slightly bloating