After battling for 22 days, a six-year-old elephant calf named Asha has died, becoming the first case of Trypanosoma infection in an elephant in Bengal. Despite relentless efforts by forest officials and veterinarians, she passed away on Monday afternoon.
On February 14, forest officials rescued the sick and abandoned calf near an Indian Army camp in the Bagdogra range of Kurseong’s forest division. Initial treatment began immediately, but her symptoms puzzled experts.
Veterinarians worked day and night to diagnose and treat Asha. Blood samples sent to the Indian Institute of Veterinary Research confirmed the presence of Trypanosoma, a rare parasitic disease affecting wild animals. Several volunteer organisations and the Indian Army supported Asha’s treatment. At times, she showed signs of recovery, raising hopes.
To improve Asha’s condition, four veterinarians from Thailand were brought in. They provided physiotherapy and even arranged artificial limbs to help her regain mobility. However, her condition worsened suddenly on Monday, and she succumbed to the disease.
Also Read: Kunki elephant kills retired army man in north Bengal trial
Kurseong Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Devesh Pandey said, "For 22 days, forest workers, doctors, volunteers, and the Indian Army worked tirelessly to save Asha. Sadly, despite all efforts, we lost her to the infection. However, the knowledge gained from her treatment will help us in the future."
Asha’s passing has left forest officials and caregivers heartbroken, marking the tragic end of a rare medical battle. Trypanosoma is a parasitic disease usually found in cattle, but rare in wild animals.
It spreads through tsetse flies and parasites but does not infect other species. Symptoms include high fever, weakness, paralysis, and blindness. If untreated, it can cause sepsis and death. Buffaloes have a higher immunity, but elephants and other wild animals are highly vulnerable.
Wildlife experts warn that if the infection spreads, it could threaten Bengal’s elephant population and impact biodiversity.
Also Read: Elephant killed in fight over territory in Kurseong forest
Follow us
