The State Surveillance Officer for Rabies, Dr. Valerie Laloo, informed on Thursday that a total of 27 people have died from rabies between 2023 and 2024.
Dr. Laloo mentioned that as of September this year, a total of 16 deaths have been reported due to dog bites.
She explained that while rabies is a treatable disease, many people take dog bites too lightly and fail to seek treatment at hospitals.
In 2023, there were 11 deaths, while in 2024, 16 people have died. Dr. Laloo pointed out that the highest number of rabies-related deaths occurred in West Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills.
She also stated that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare considers public awareness about rabies prevention to be critical across the state.
Additionally, Dr. Laloo urged the public not to take dog bites lightly. Even if bitten by vaccinated dogs, people should seek immediate medical attention, as medicines are available at all Primary Health Centres (PHCs) across the state.
When asked about the measures being taken to prevent rabies, Dr. Laloo stated that the department is working closely with the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Department and the Shillong Municipal Board to vaccinate street dogs. By the end of 2023, more than 600 street dogs had been vaccinated in East Khasi Hills alone.
