World Rabbies Day : 21,000 cases of Rabies reported each year in India
News Editor, Takmaa News, Kolkata, 26th Sept 2023 : 28th September is the world rabies Day and This year’s World Rabies Day theme is: “All for 1, One Health for all”. Rabies is one of the deadliest viral disease in India, which is unfortunatelyincreasing. According to the latest data, India is estimated to have 30- 60 million stray dogs, which are the main vectors of transmission of the disease, killing 21,000 people per year.
The major risk factors of developing human rabies are animal bite, mostly from certain stray animals (dogs, cats, monkeys and rat). Poor knowledge/awareness about human rabies leads to failure of seeking immediate treatment following animal bites. Also poor traditional/cultural practices following bites from infected animals, socioeconomic factors and inertia of using of preventive measures against rabies add to the disease burden. According to a report by the health ministry of India, certain parts of India has higher case fatality.
According to Dr. Syamasis Bandyopadhyay Apollo Multi-Speciality Hospital, Kolkata, “ Avoidance of exposure and immediate medical attention including anti rabies antibody where needed with anti rabies vaccination are the key measures to win over this deadly disease. “
According to the WHO (World Health Organization) rabies is a preventable viral disease that still poses a significant public health threat. Timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and responsible domestic animal management are key to achieving this goal.
