Madhubala beats TB but long road to recovery lies ahead, Four Paws chief says
Madhubala beats TB but long road to recovery lies ahead, Four Paws chief says
Madhubala the elephant has beaten tuberculosis, but her fight for survival is far from over. The 22-year-old African elephant at Karachi’s Safari Park remains physically weak and faces several more weeks of intensive treatment and rehabilitation, Four Paws chief Dr Amir Khalil said on Friday.
Speaking to The Express Tribune at Safari Park, Khalil said Madhubala’s weakened immune system, weight loss and deteriorating physical condition remained major concerns. Her hind legs are particularly weak, while swelling in her limbs and cracks in her toenails have affected her mobility.
“The elephant may even require a crane to help her get back on her feet if she falls,” Khalil warned, underlining the seriousness of her condition.
Madhubala elephant free of infection, but weak
Madhubala has been experiencing severe health problems for several weeks. Although a bacterial infection was initially suspected, Khalil said there was no longer evidence of such an infection. Her declining weight and lack of strength in her hind legs continue to complicate her recovery.
Khalil said medication alone would not be enough to restore Madhubala’s health. Her treatment plan includes nutritional support, physiotherapy and specialised care to rebuild her strength and improve her overall condition.
The elephant will receive multivitamins, minerals and dietary supplements, with particular attention to supporting her liver health. Daily water-based massages and physiotherapy will also be required to improve blood circulation in her leg muscles. Swimming will form another important part of her rehabilitation, allowing her to move her legs while gradually rebuilding muscle strength.
The condition of Madhubala’s legs and toenails remains a particular concern for the veterinary team. Khalil said treating elephants presents unique challenges, including the difficulty of administering injections, which requires specialised handling and treatment procedures.
Pakistani and foreign specialists working together
“Pakistani and foreign specialists are working together to improve Madhubala’s condition,” Khalil said.
According to Khalil, international experts have been providing guidance remotely over the past several weeks. He said there were encouraging signs of improvement, but it was too early to make definitive predictions about her recovery. For now, the priority was to stabilise her condition and provide the intensive care she needed.
“Madhubala’s sister, Malika, has also been looking after her and playing an important role in her care,” Khalil said.
The Four Paws team is focusing on understanding Madhubala’s medical problems and addressing her immediate needs rather than dwelling on mistakes made in the past. Khalil said decisions about the next stage of treatment would be made once Madhubala regained the strength to stand and move around independently. Her recovery, he added, would require sustained cooperation among all those involved, alongside appropriate medical treatment, rehabilitation, nutrition and specialised care.
Frequently asked questions
Has Madhubala recovered from tuberculosis?
Yes, the 22-year-old elephant is now free of tuberculosis. But Four Paws chief Dr Amir Khalil says the disease has left her physically weak, with a weakened immune system, weight loss and mobility problems that need weeks of intensive care.
What treatment is Madhubala receiving?
Her treatment plan includes multivitamins, minerals and liver-support supplements, daily water-based massages, physiotherapy to improve blood circulation in her leg muscles, and swimming to rebuild leg strength.
Who is caring for Madhubala?
Pakistani and foreign specialists are working together, with international experts advising remotely. Her sister Malika, who shares the Safari Park enclosure, has also been looking after her.
When will the next stage of treatment be decided?
Khalil said decisions on the next stage would be taken once Madhubala regains enough strength to stand and move around independently. For now the priority is stabilising her condition.
