TB treatment begins for elephants
Female African elephants, Sonia and Malka, roam in their enclosure at Safari Park where Madhubala is expected to arrive too from the Karachi Zoo. Photo: Express
Two elephants at Safari Park, Madhubala and Malika, are undergoing treatment for tuberculosis under the supervision of Sri Lankan veterinary expert Dr Buddhika Bandara. The specialist has arrived in Karachi for a 17-day visit to assess their condition and oversee the treatment, which follows internationally recommended medical protocols.
Dr Bandara, accompanied by committee member Yusra Askari and other local veterinarians, addressed the media on Friday to provide an update on the elephants' condition. According to him, both elephants were diagnosed with TB in May, and treatment commenced immediately under international protocols.
The treatment consists of two phases - an intensive initial stage lasting two months, followed by a ten-month regimen of regular medication and check-ups. Dr Bandara, who has successfully treated 15 elephants with TB in the past, expressed confidence that Madhubala and Malika will also recover.
Both elephants remain under strict medical supervision. To ensure their safety and minimise stress, the Safari Park administration has restricted public access. Visitors may only observe the elephants from designated viewing areas or specially arranged buses.
Dr Bandara explained that the elephants' health will be reviewed every two months, with a more comprehensive screening scheduled every six months. The next major assessment will take place in six months. The animals received their most recent medication 13 days ago, and their treatment is progressing as planned.
Although the recovery process is long, Dr Bandara emphasised that full recovery is possible if the prescribed treatment protocol is followed diligently.
He expressed hope that both elephants will soon show signs of significant improvement.
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