Latest news with #Rabies
News18
4 hours ago
- News18
Bat Meat In Your 'Chicken' Biryani? Shocking Food Scam Busted In Tamil Nadu, 2 Held
Two men in Tamil Nadu were caught hunting fruit bats and selling the meat as chicken. The illegal trade was busted by forest officials during a raid in Salem district In a disturbing case that has raised serious concerns over food safety and wildlife protection, two men were arrested for hunting fruit bats and selling their meat disguised as chicken at roadside eateries in Tamil Nadu's Salem district. The incident came to light after the Forest Department raided the Thoppur Ramasamy forest area on the night of July 25, acting on local reports of gunshots in the region. During the raid, forest officials caught the suspects red-handed while they were preparing bat meat by boiling it at the site. Upon interrogation, the accused confessed to selling the meat as chilli chicken and other popular dishes at fast-food stalls in the Danishpettai area of Omalur. Officials confirmed that unsuspecting customers were consuming the bat meat believing it to be chicken. Experts have flagged this practice as a major public health risk. Fruit bats are known carriers of life-threatening viruses, including Nipah, Ebola, Marburg, and Rabies. Consuming undercooked or contaminated bat meat can lead to severe disease outbreaks. A similar case in Congo earlier this year reportedly led to the deaths of over 50 people after the consumption of infected bat meat. This is not the first such incident in India. In recent years, authorities have uncovered multiple cases of wildlife meat being passed off as chicken. In 2020, crow meat was sold in Rameswaram; in 2021, Bengaluru reported cases involving rat and dog meat; and just last year, similar suspicions at the Bengaluru railway station sparked public outrage. The two accused, identified as Kamal (36) and Selvam (35), were arrested under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. They were remanded to judicial custody on July 28. Ranger Vimal Kumar, who led the operation, confirmed that a broader investigation is underway to trace the extent of the illegal activity and determine if others were involved. The case has renewed calls for stricter surveillance and regulation of street food vendors to safeguard public health and prevent wildlife exploitation. view comments First Published: July 30, 2025, 15:09 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
21-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Mumbai man booked for unleashing dog on minor boy
A disturbing incident occurred in Mumbai on Thursday (July 17, 2025) at around 10 p.m., when Mohammad Sohail Khan deliberately unleashed his pet dog on a minor boy, who was playing in a parked auto-rickshaw, according to Mumbai Police. The dog attacked the minor boy, biting him on the chin and hands, causing serious injuries. A video of the incident went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation. Lancet study estimates 3 in every 4 animal bites in India due to dogs Khan allegedly set his pet dog loose on minor boy without any provocation and the dog bit the child repeatedly. Instead of intervening, Khan was seen laughing and enjoying the incident. The boy sustained injuries to his chin and hands and was left mentally traumatised by the ordeal. "On July 17, at around 10:00 p.m. the complainant's minor son was playing in a parked rickshaw in the residential area when the accused, Mohammad Sohail Khan — an acquaintance from the same locality — deliberately released his brown-coloured pet dog. Owing to a lack of control and supervision, the dog bit the child on the chin, causing injury," said Mumbai Police. Based on the detailed statement of the complainant, an offence has been registered against Khan under Sections 291, 125, 125(a) of IPC (BNS) at Mankhurd Police Station. 3.17 lakh people sought treatment for dog bite cases in the State in 2024 A notice has been served to the accused under Section 35(3) of BNS. Earlier, on July 10, the Central Government aimed to eliminate Rabies by 2023. According to the study done by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), on Human rabies death and animal bite burden estimates in India, 2022-2023, more than 5,000 people die every year owing to dog bites. 'Nearly 9.1 million animal bites and 5,726 human rabies deaths due to dog bites are estimated to occur every year in India,' states a study done by ICMR-NIE. 'Eighty per cent of the dog bite victims reported taking at least one dose of the vaccination. In order to eliminate dog-mediated rabies by 2023, India must continue to fast-track its action through a focussed health approach,' states a study done by ICMR-NIE. The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy, based on a release issued by the Ministry, mentioned that States/UTs have reported, as per the data reported on the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (Integrated Health Information Platform) portal under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, that 21,95,122 dog bite cases in India during Jan-Dec 2024.
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Business Standard
14-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Over 9 million animal bites and 5,700 rabies deaths in India yearly: ICMR
A nationwide study by the Indian Council of Medical Research –National Institute of Epidemiology (ICMR-NIE) has revealed that India continues to lose over 5,700 lives annually to rabies, despite high levels of awareness and vaccine uptake. The survey, conducted across 60 districts and 15 states, found that nearly 9.1 million animal bites occur each year, with children under 14 and the elderly most frequently affected. Even though 80 per cent of dog bite victims received at least one dose of the anti-rabies vaccine, the report raises alarm over the lack of access to complete post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), especially rabies immunoglobulin (RIG), which can be life-saving in severe exposures. What is rabies? Rabies is a lethal viral infection that attacks the central nervous system and is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. Dogs are responsible for most human cases. After exposure, whether a bite or a minor scratch, a medical emergency emerges. Rabies remains lethal and severely underreported: ICMR The ICMR study, which used household-level data, estimates that 5,726 human rabies deaths occur in India every year. The highest incidence of dog bites was found among: Children aged 0–14 years Elderly above 60 years Males Despite India's ambitious goal to eliminate rabies by 2030 under the National Action Plan for Rabies Elimination (NAPRE), these findings expose serious gaps in access, awareness, and post-bite care. Rabies immunoglobulin is the missing link: ICMR While vaccines are widely promoted, RIG remains severely underused and unavailable, particularly in public health settings. The ICMR study found that most dog bite victims received incomplete treatment, and few received RIG—a crucial biological that offers immediate protection before the vaccine takes effect. Experts emphasise that without RIG, even vaccinated individuals can succumb to rabies, especially in deep bite wounds or Category III exposures. While rabies vaccine is available for free of cost at most government hospitals and urban primary health centres (UPHCs), RIG is usually available only in tertiary care government hospitals, such as Aiims, Delhi, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, Sion Hospital (Lokmanya Tilak), Mumbai, CMC Vellore, Tamil Nadu, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai. How vaccine and RIG work together Rabies vaccine contains inactivated virus that prompts your immune system to develop protective antibodies. It is part of two protocols: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): for high-risk individuals (such as veterinarians and travellers to high-risk areas) Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP): for those bitten or scratched, delivered on Days 0, 3, 7, and 14 (plus Day 28 for immunocompromised individuals) However, it requires about 7–14 days to build immunity, leaving a dangerous window if not supplemented. Rabies immunoglobulin provides immediate, passive immunity by introducing ready-made antibodies directly to the wound site. It is essential for Category III exposures—deep bites or contact with mucous membranes—as recommended by the World Health Organisation and other health experts. According to experts, RIG should be administered within seven days of the first vaccine dose. Without RIG, the rabies virus might reach the central nervous system before the vaccine can fully protect you—an almost certain path to fatality if the infection takes hold. Current government response The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), along with the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), is implementing the National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP) to address these challenges through: Free provision of anti-rabies vaccine and RIG Mass dog vaccination campaigns Model anti-rabies clinics Awareness and training programmes Intersectoral coordination under a 'One Health' approach However, according to the Marching Towards Rabies-Free India report by MoHFW, availability of RIG still varies drastically between states, and only 20 states have declared human rabies a notifiable disease, leading to chronic underreporting and delayed interventions. According to ICMR, rabies is 100 per cent fatal once symptoms begin—but also 100 per cent preventable with timely and complete treatment. Vaccination alone is not enough in severe cases and RIG must be administered within seven days of the first vaccine dose. According to MoHFW, the first line of defence is always immediate wound washing, followed by full PEP. Despite targets, India's rabies strategy faces major barriers Uneven access to vaccine and immunoglobulin Weak surveillance and underreporting Lack of lab-confirmed diagnoses Public misconceptions about treatment Fragmented coordination across health sectors What are the common signs a dog may have rabies? Sudden, unprovoked aggression Attacking people or animals without reason Restlessness, snapping, biting at objects or air Excessive salivation or foaming at the mouth (due to paralysis of the jaw and throat muscles) Thick, sticky saliva may drip constantly Unusual behaviour or personality changes Friendly dogs becoming hostile Active dogs becoming lethargic or withdrawn Difficulty swallowing or hydrophobia (fear of water) Dogs may refuse to drink despite appearing thirsty Attempts to drink may trigger spasms or panic Staggering or paralysis Hind leg weakness Seizures or paralysis, especially near the end stage High-pitched growling or strange vocalisations Bark may sound distorted or unusual Whining, howling, or guttural noises Steps to take after a dog bite Immediate wound care Gently wash the affected area with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, then sanitise with an iodine or 70 per cent alcohol solution. Seek medical attention Go to the nearest large government hospital or a known tertiary medical college hospital. Health professionals will classify the injury. There are three WHO-defined categories of rabies exposure: Category I (Touching or feeding animals, or being licked on intact skin): No PEP required, but wash hands for hygiene and observe the animal. Category II (Minor scratches or nibbles): Vaccine is required. Category III (Deep wounds or mucosal exposure): Both vaccine and RIG are required. For RIG, specifically ask if it's available at the anti-rabies clinic or emergency room you visited. According to ICMR, MoHFW, and global medical experts, when it comes to rabies, it's always better to act fast than to take chances—because once symptoms appear, it's already too late.
India Gazette
10-07-2025
- Health
- India Gazette
India must continue to fast-track its action to eliminate Rabies by 2030: ICMR-NIE
New Delhi [India], July 10 (ANI): The Central Government is aiming to eliminate Rabies by 2030. According to the study done by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), on Human rabies death and animal bite burden estimates in India, 2022-2023, more than 5000 people die every year due to dog bites. 'Nearly 9.1 million animal bites and 5,726 human rabies deaths due to dog bites are estimated to occur every year in India.' '80 per cent of the dog bite victims reported taking at least one dose of the vaccination. In order to eliminate dog-mediated rabies by 2030, India must continue to fast-track its action through a focused one health approach,' states a study done by ICMR-NIE. The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairy on the basis of release issued by the Ministry mentioned that States/UTs have reported, as per the data reported on the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (Integrated Health Information Platform) portal under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, that 2195122 dog bites cases in India during Jan-Dec'2024. The primary objectives of the study are to estimate human rabies and deaths. 'The primary objectives of the study are to estimate the incidence of animal bites and to estimate human rabies deaths by decision tree model.' 'The secondary objectives are to estimate the proportion of animal bite cases receiving post-exposure prophylaxis, describe the anti-rabies vaccine supply chain at different levels of the health care system and estimate direct and indirect costs associated with animal bite cases,' states the study. 'During March 2022 to August 2023, we did a nationwide cross-sectional survey among individuals residing in 600 clusters across 60 districts in 15 Indian states. We employed a multistage cluster sampling design, utilising a probability sampling technique at every stage of selection. The head of the household or an adult family member was interviewed to collect information about the demographic details, bite history in any of the family members, type of biting animal, post bite animal status and circumstances leading to the animal bite, receipt of anti-rabies vaccination (ARV) and death after animal bite in the family. Annual animal bite incidence, along with 95% CI, was estimated after applying the sampling weights and adjusting for clustering.' Study also revealed that the dog bite incidence was higher among children, below 14 years and elderly aged above 60 years, 'The dog bite incidence was higher among children aged 0-14 years (0.75 percent) and elderly aged above 60 years (0.78 percent) and among males (0.76 percent) and was not different in rural (0.58 percent) and urban (0.50 percent) areas (p=0.253). Among the dog bite victims, 79.5 percent (n=1,253) took at least one dose of anti-rabies vaccine. Using the decision tree/probability model we estimated 5,726 (95 percent CI: 3,967 - 7,350) human rabies deaths occurring every year in India.' For a few years, Goa has maintained a rabies-free record. Sanchita Banerjee Rodrigues, Trustee - Panjim Animal Welfare Society, said, 'Goa has emerged as a model state in India for rabies control, having maintained its status as a rabies-controlled region for the last six years. This remarkable achievement is not by chance but by the sheer dedication and synergy of all stakeholders involved--government bodies, veterinarians, animal welfare volunteers, feeders, the Directorate of Animal Husbandry, DSPCA, and schools that play a key role in awareness and education.' 'Even when a rare case was reported last year in one of our islands in Goa involving a pet-owned dog, the response was swift and decisive. The entire village was sensitised, and containment protocols were immediately executed. This collective, community-driven action ensured that the situation was brought under control without panic or misinformation,' she said. On what other states/UTs can learn from Goa, she said, 'What other states can learn from Goa is the importance of cohesive teamwork. The key lies in consistent collaboration and trust among those on the ground and those in authority. Rabies control is not just about vaccines--it's about education, surveillance, early action, and deep-rooted community involvement. In Goa, feeders are the first responders, schools are awareness hubs, and volunteers serve as both watchdogs and caregivers. The veterinary community ensures scientific rigour, while the government ensures continuity of support, infrastructure, and accountability' 'The Goa model proves that rabies elimination is achievable in India with strategic planning and shared responsibility. It's not about isolated efforts, but a united front with a clear goal. As the country moves closer to the goal of 'Zero by 30', Goa stands as a shining example that with the right approach, the dream of a rabies-free India is within reach. It is time for other states to adapt, localise, and adopt Goa's spirit of collaboration and unwavering,' she said. Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Associate Director - Internal Medicine, Paras Health, Gurugram said that the Rabies virus is the cause of the fatal viral disease rabies. It is primarily transmitted by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, usually a stray dog, but it can also be spread by bats, cats, and monkeys. The virus causes inflammation in the brain by affecting the central nervous symptoms appear, such as fever, confusion, fear of water, and paralysis, it is almost always risks linked to rabies are severe. If wounds from animal bites or scratches are not cleaned and treated correctly, they can lead to serious infections like sepsis, or localized bacterial infections, he said. Doctor Kumar further said, Prevention is essential. Getting vaccinated on time is important for pets and for people at higher risk, like veterinarians, animal handlers. If someone gets bitten or scratched, they should wash the wound right away with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes. They should then seek medical evaluation and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which includes anti-rabies vaccines and, if needed, rabies immunoglobulin. People should avoid contact with stray or wild animals and supervise children around animals. Keeping up with regular pet vaccinations and supporting community animal birth control and awareness programs are crucial in reducing the spread of rabies. (ANI)
Daily Record
18-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Travel warning to holidaymakers after woman dies from rabies following dog bite
A British holidaymaker died after being infected with the fatal disease in Europe. A warning has been issued to holidaymakers after a British woman died after contracting rabies following contact with a stray dog whilst abroad. The female was holidaying in Morocco when they became infected after being bitten or scratched. The Yorkshire woman was later diagnosed with the fatal disease. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are now warning tourists to be cautious when around stray animals in countries where rabies is present, particularly in parts of Asia and Africa. This includes avoiding contact with animals such as dogs and cats, and seeking advice on whether vaccination is needed before travel. Dr Katherine Russell, Head of Emerging Infections and Zoonoses at UKHSA, said: "If you are bitten, scratched or licked by an animal in a country where rabies is found, then you should wash the wound or site of exposure with plenty of soap and water and seek medical advice without delay in order to get post-exposure treatment to prevent rabies.' Dr Russell stressed there was no risk to the wider public as Rabies cannot be transmitted between humans. As a precaution close contacts and healthcare workers involved in this case are being offered vaccination as a precaution. Dr Russell added: 'I would like to extend my condolences to this individual's family at this time. Rabies is a virus transmitted through the saliva of animals, commonly spreading to humans via bites, scratches, or licks on open wounds from infected animals, primarily dogs. According to Travel Health Pro: "It can also be a risk if an animal spits and saliva gets into the eyes, mouth or nose. The virus attacks the central nervous system, causing progressive damage to the brain and spinal cord. Once symptoms are present, rabies is almost always fatal." It does not circulate in domestic or wild animals in the UK, although some species of bats can carry a rabies-like virus. The last recorded case of someone acquiring rabies from an animal other than a bat within the UK was in 1902. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. There have been six reported cases of human rabies associated with animal exposure abroad in the UK between 2000 and 2024. Anyone who is bitten, scratched, or exposed to an animal's saliva in a rabies-affected country should immediately wash the area with soap and water and seek medical help—regardless of whether they have been vaccinated. Post-exposure treatment, when given quickly, is highly effective at preventing the disease. A recent update on the Foreign Office-funded Travel Health Pro website read: "In early June 2025, the Valencian Health Department reported a fatal case of rabies in a Spanish resident bitten by a dog during a trip to Ethiopia in July 2024."
