Dog Bites and Rabies: How to spot risks and stay safe

Rabies kills nearly 59,000 people every year, yet it’s entirely preventable. Learn the signs, prevention tips, and why timely vaccination is key. (Image: Pexels)

Rabies, mostly spread by dog bites, remains a deadly but preventable disease. With timely vaccination and awareness, thousands of lives can be saved every year.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), rabies continues to claim nearly 59,000 lives annually — most of them preventable. In India, and across much of Asia and Africa, dog-mediated rabies remains a serious threat, especially to children. While effective vaccines exist, the lack of awareness, access, and timely action remains patchy

Dogs are responsible for nearly 99% of human rabies cases. Once symptoms show, it is almost always fatal. The disease attacks the nervous system and leads to death within days. Children between 5 and 14 years are its most frequent victims. However, it is entirely vaccine-preventable.

Also Read: Healthy sleep routines for school-going children only parents can enforce

Here are 9 critical ways we can prevent rabies and protect communities:

Vaccinate dogs regularly: Mass dog vaccination campaigns are the most effective way to break the transmission cycle. Puppies, too, must be vaccinated. Culling strays does not control rabies — only widespread canine immunisation does.

Teach children about dog behaviour: Children must be taught not to provoke dogs, avoid approaching animals while eating or sleeping, and to report bites or scratches immediately. Awareness can save a life.

Wash wounds immediately: If bitten or scratched, wash the area with soap and running water for 15 minutes. It may seem minor, but this first step is critical in lowering viral load.

Seek post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): Don’t wait. A doctor should assess the bite and start the PEP protocol — which includes wound cleaning, a rabies vaccine course, and in severe cases, rabies immunoglobulin.

Avoid unverified home remedies: Applying turmeric, lime, or oils to a bite wound is not just ineffective — it’s dangerous. Delays in proper treatment can cost lives.

Ensure access to quality vaccines: Three WHO pre-qualified rabies vaccines — RABIVAX-S, VaxiRab N, and VERORAB — are currently available. Health departments must ensure these are stocked in both urban and rural centres.

Also Read: 8 reasons you should change your diet habits according to the season

Promote responsible pet ownership: Pet dogs must be vaccinated annually, kept from roaming freely, and taken to the vet for check-ups. Owners are the first line of defence.

Train local health workers: Accurate diagnosis and wound risk assessments are essential. Many rural clinics still misdiagnose paralytic rabies due to lack of training or awareness.

Support dog population management, not elimination: Sterilisation and humane management of street dogs is key. Involving animal welfare organisations ensures ethical, sustainable solutions — not knee-jerk killings.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.