Mangaluru Launches Rabies Awareness Drive Amid Rising Dog Bite Cases

Mangaluru: Responding to a sharp rise in dog bite cases over the last three years, Municipal Commissioner Ravichandra Naik has rolled out an extensive rabies awareness campaign to educate the public on prevention, early treatment, and responsible pet care.

Alarmingly, recent reports reveal that bites from pet dogs now outnumber those from strays, pointing to lapses in pet management. Commissioner Naik called attention to rabies, a fatal viral infection transmitted primarily through the saliva of infected animals like dogs and cats. He urged the public to seek immediate medical attention and vaccination after any bite, regardless of severity.

To support prevention efforts, free rabies vaccines are being provided at all government hospitals across the city. Additionally, in partnership with the Department of Animal Husbandry, the municipality is setting up vaccination camps in rural areas to reach more residents. Naik encouraged citizens to make use of these camps and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their pets.

Highlighting the growing street dog population, the Commissioner blamed the issue in part on irresponsible abandonment of puppies, and appealed to pet owners to avoid deserting animals in public places.

The awareness campaign was formally launched in the presence of key officials, including District Health Officer Dr. H.R. Thimmayya, RCH Officer Dr. Rajesh, District Surveillance Officer Dr. Naveen Chandra Kulal, and District Health Education Officer Jyoti K. Ulepadi. Their participation reflects a coordinated, multi-departmental strategy to tackle rabies.

The initiative will focus on:

• Educating the public about symptoms and dangers of rabies.

Citizens are urged to stay alert, report suspected rabies cases, and get vaccinated immediately after any animal bite. With community support and awareness, the municipality hopes to curb the spread of this deadly disease and ensure public safety.