Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) is a viral disease that affects elephants, particularly young calves. Let's analyze the given statements to determine their accuracy.

Statement 1: It is a double-stranded DNA virus.
Statement 2: It causes fatal haemorrhagic disease in elephants.

Analyzing the Statements:
1. Double-stranded DNA Virus:
EEHV is indeed a double-stranded DNA virus. It belongs to the family Herpesviridae, which includes many other viruses known for their double-stranded DNA genomes. The double-stranded DNA structure allows the virus to efficiently replicate and manipulate host cells.

2. Fatal Haemorrhagic Disease:
EEHV can cause fatal haemorrhagic disease in elephants. This disease is characterized by internal bleeding, leading to severe organ damage and eventually death. It primarily affects young elephants, especially those under the age of 8. The disease has been responsible for the deaths of several elephants worldwide.

Therefore, both statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Explanation of the Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV):
EEHV is a significant concern in the conservation and management of elephants, particularly in captive populations. The virus can be divided into four types: EEHV1A, EEHV1B, EEHV4, and EEHV5. EEHV1A is the most common and virulent type, often associated with fatal cases.

Transmission:
EEHV primarily spreads through direct contact between elephants. The virus can be shed through body fluids such as saliva, nasal secretions, and feces. Indirect transmission can also occur through contaminated surfaces or objects. The exact mechanisms of transmission are not fully understood, but stress and immune system suppression are believed to play a role in triggering the disease.

Symptoms and Diagnosis:
The initial symptoms of EEHV infection may include lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever. As the disease progresses, elephants may develop more severe symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, oral lesions, and hemorrhages. Prompt diagnosis is crucial for effective management, and various diagnostic techniques, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and viral load monitoring, are employed to detect and monitor the presence of the virus.

Treatment and Prevention:
There is currently no specific treatment for EEHV, and the disease can progress rapidly. However, efforts are being made to develop antiviral drugs and vaccines to combat the virus. Prevention strategies include regular monitoring, strict hygiene protocols, and quarantine measures to limit the spread of the virus within elephant populations.

In conclusion, EEHV is a double-stranded DNA virus that causes fatal haemorrhagic disease in elephants. The virus poses a significant threat to elephant populations, and further research is needed to understand its transmission, pathogenesis, and develop effective prevention and treatment strategies.