Rabies in India - a Shocking Overview
A long comprehensive article with many parts. But you can read these parts independently by clicking the links below.
INTRODUCTION TO THE RABIES AND DOG BITE ISSUE IN INDIA
A summary of many key points
Our health system is completely unprepared for the large number of dog-bite and rabies cases afflicting our country.
Critical anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin to treat bite wounds which draw blood are intermittently in short supply in many parts of the country.
The programme is contrary to practices in countries that have eliminated rabies and brought down stray dog-human conflicts.
Not only is Dog Population not controlled, rabies is rampant in our country, in canines, people, livestock, and now wildlife too. It has recently been found in a domestic hen too.
The Rabies patients in just one hospital were 25 % more than the claimed national total !
Horrifying news reports of children and seniors killed when out playing or walking make no difference to the law even though they are being played out month by month, year by year, all over our country.
Unfortunately, studies show many doctors in india are not up-to-date with the guidelines and practice for bite management.
Detailed documentation of vaccination status of dog/cat and proper history should be elicited before deciding to defer post-exposure prophylaxis after bite by vaccinated dog/cat.
The programme is extremely low cost and logistically easier than other options. Experts say it could easily be replicated across India.
Saving large numbers of vials of immunoglobulin and associated costs - and saving countless lives.
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