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India Today
3 days ago
- Health
- India Today
Supreme Court stray dog order: Why rabies is deadly, what to do after a bite
If you live in Delhi or its surrounding cities, you've probably noticed street dogs everywhere, lounging near markets, hanging around garbage spots, or following people on evening walks. But now, things might be about to August 11, 2025, the Supreme Court took its strongest step yet on the issue, ordering Delhi and its satellite towns to catch every street dog within eight weeks, keep them permanently in pounds, and rapidly build shelter reason? The city records roughly 30,000 dog bite cases every year, and rabies, a deadly but preventable disease, still claims lives, especially among those who struggle to access timely treatment. The move clashes with the existing Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023, which say healthy street dogs should be caught, sterilised, vaccinated, and then released back into their territory. These rules even make it illegal to permanently relocate or confine healthy dogs, unless they are rabid, incurably ill, or proven dangerously aggressive by a problem? In reality, sterilisation drives have been patchy and slow, rarely achieving the 70% coverage needed to curb besides this legal and administrative tug-of-war, the reality of dog bite cases is playing out quite prominently in hospital emergency growing street dog population directly feeds into rising bite cases, and for doctors on the frontlines, the debate over capture, sterilisation, or permanent impoundment translates into a very real public health problem.'Right now, we manage 40–50 animal bite cases a month, most of them from stray dogs,' says Dr. Anurag Aggarwal, Director & HOD, Emergency Medicine & Trauma, Fortis Hospital, Noida. 'A large number of these are serious enough to require immediate medical care and post-exposure prophylaxis.'Category I: Touching or feeding animals, licks on intact skin - No treatment II: Minor scratches or nibbling on unbroken skin - Vaccine III: Deep bites, wounds, or contamination of mucous membranes - Vaccine and immunoglobulin II and III bites — These are the kind of bites that break skin and carry a risk of rabies and are the most common. With children under 15 making up a big share of victims, the dangers go beyond the bite itself.'Children often get bitten on the face or arms, which makes rabies transmission risk higher. They also don't always know how to react to an aggressive dog, so they can't protect themselves as well as adults can," explains Dr. expert also says that there has been a gradual rise in cases, especially during the monsoon months, when stray dog activity RARE, BUT DEADLYRabies is almost 100% fatal once symptoms appear, but also 100% preventable if you get treatment on time. Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus, which belongs to the Lyssavirus genus in the Rhabdoviridae family, that spreads through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, usually attacks the brain and nerves. Early symptoms can feel like the flu, with fever, headache, and weakness, but as the disease worsens, it can cause anxiety, confusion, difficulty swallowing, excessive saliva, hallucinations, and even these symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. The danger is in the delay of treatment.'We still see patients who come in late, or don't finish their vaccine schedule. That's extremely risky, because even one missed dose can mean the difference between life and death," says Dr. treatment, once you come in contact with an infected animal, there's an anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) and rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) that is administered depending on the category of the TO PROTECT YOURSELFWhether or not the Supreme Court order holds up against legal challenges, the health risks from dog bites, and rabies, remain very what doctors say you should do:Seek medical care immediately after any bite, even if it looks small. Don't wait to see if it 'heals on its own.'advertisementWash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 the rabies vaccine schedule as soon as possible and complete every your doctor about RIG (rabies immunoglobulin) for high-risk bites, especially on the face, head, or neck. RIG should be injected directly into and around the wound for maximum effectiveness. RIG is most effective within 7 days of the first rabies vaccine dose. After this period, the vaccine itself produces enough antibodies, making RIG children how to behave around dogs, avoid teasing, touching while eating, or approaching unknown BIGGER HEALTH PICTUREIndia's rabies burden is still among the highest in the world. Experts say that alongside legal and administrative measures, we need community-level vaccination drives for both humans and dogs, stronger public awareness campaigns, and better access to post-bite treatment in government to rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) in India still remains a challenge, especially in rural Neha Rastogi Panda, Consultant-Infectious Diseases at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, pointed out, "Despite the availability of rabies vaccinations, RIG is expensive and often in short supply. Human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) is particularly costly, while equine rabies immunoglobulin (ERIG) is a cheaper alternative but still difficult to obtain."advertisement'The need of the hour is enhanced public awareness. People must know that rabies is preventable, but only if you act fast," adds Dr. now, Delhi waits to see whether the Supreme Court's order will lead to fewer dogs on the streets, and fewer bites in hospital emergency until then, the best protection against rabies is still swift action, not wishful thinking.- EndsMust Watch
Indian Express
05-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Lyssavirus is rare, but deadly — what should you do if bat bites you?
By Vinod Balasubramaniam A man in his 50s has died from lyssavirus in New South Wales after being bitten by a bat several months ago. This is Australia's fourth human case of bat lyssavirus and the first confirmed case in NSW since the virus was first identified in 1996 in a black flying fox in Queensland. So what is lyssavirus? And how can you protect yourself if you come into contact with a bat? Australian bat lyssavirus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, the same group of viruses that causes rabies. It primarily infects bats. Active monitoring suggests fewer than 1 per cent of healthy bats carry the virus, though prevalence rises to 5–10 per cent in sick or injured bats. In bats, the virus often causes no obvious symptoms, though some show neurological signs such as disorientation, aggression, muscle spasms and paralysis. Some will die. The virus has been confirmed in all four mainland flying fox species (Pteropus alecto, P. poliocephalus, P. scapulatus and P. conspicillatus) as well as the yellow-bellied sheathtail bat (Saccolaimus flaviventris), a species of microbat. However, serological evidence – where scientists test for antibodies in bats' blood – suggests other microbats could be susceptible too. So we should be cautious with all Australian bat species when it comes to lyssavirus. Unlike rabies, which causes roughly 59,000 human deaths annually, predominantly in Africa and Asia, human infection with bat lyssavirus is extremely rare. Australian bat lyssavirus, as the name suggests, is unique to Australia. But other bat lyssaviruses, such as European bat lyssavirus, have similarly caused rare human infections. Human infection with bat lyssavirus occurs through direct contact with infected bat saliva via bites, scratches or open skin. It can also occur if our mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth) are exposed to bat saliva. There's no risk associated with bat faeces, urine, blood, or casual proximity to roosts. If someone has been exposed, there's an incubation period which can range from weeks to more than two years. During this time the virus slowly moves through the body's nerves to the brain, staying hidden and symptom-free. Treating the virus during the incubation period can prevent the illness. But if it's not treated, symptoms are serious and it's invariably fatal. The nature of the illness in humans mirrors rabies, beginning with flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, fatigue), then quickly progressing to severe neurological disease, including paralysis, delirium, convulsions, and loss of consciousness. Death generally occurs within 1–2 weeks of symptom onset. All four recorded human cases in Australia – three in Queensland (in 1996, 1998 and 2013) and the recent NSW case – have been fatal. There's no effective treatment once symptoms develop If someone is potentially exposed to bat lyssavirus and seeks medical attention, they can be treated with post-exposure prophylaxis, consisting of rabies antibodies and the rabies vaccine. This intervention is highly effective if initiated promptly – preferably within 48 hours, and no later than seven days post-exposure – before the virus enters the central nervous system. But no effective treatment exists for Australian bat lyssavirus once symptoms develop. Emerging research on monoclonal antibodies offers potential future therapies, however these are not yet available. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination, involving three doses over one month, is recommended for high-risk groups. This includes veterinarians, animal handlers, wildlife rehabilitators, and laboratory workers handling lyssaviruses. It's important for members of the public to avoid all direct contact with bats. Only vaccinated, trained professionals, such as wildlife carers or veterinarians, should handle bats. Public education campaigns are essential to reduce risky interactions, especially in bat-populated areas. If you get bitten or scratched by a bat, it's vital to act immediately. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes, apply an antiseptic (such as betadine), and seek urgent medical attention. This tragic case in NSW underscores that while extremely rare, bat lyssavirus is an important public health threat. We need to see enhanced public awareness and ensure vaccination for high-risk groups, alongside ongoing bat monitoring and research into new treatments.
The Hindu
24-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Favipiravir drug shows promise against Chandipura virus in preclinical studies by NIV
Anti-viral drug Favipiravir has been found to have the potential to provide substantial protection against the Chandipura virus in the preclinical studies conducted by the Pune-based National Institute of Virology(NIV). The Chandipura virus (CHPV) is endemic in central India and symptoms include high fever and seizures. The infection also induces encephalitis. Studies on mice have shown that Favipiravir can reduce viral load and improve survival rates in infected animals, Naveen Kumar, director of NIV, which is under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), told PTI. The virus was identified during 1965 in Maharashtra from clinical samples of febrile cases. The first significant outbreak was recorded in 2003 in Telangana, which was then part of Andhra Pradesh. It infected over 300 children with more than 50 per cent fatality. Cases were also reported from Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, Telangana and Gujarat between 2003 and 2007. Even 2007 onwards sporadic cases from endemic regions were reported. In 2024, a major outbreak was reported from Gujarat and adjoining areas of Maharashtra which the WHO described as the largest outbreak in the past 20 years. It emerged to be a major threat for the paediatric population with 64 laboratory confirmed cases of the infection reported from Gujarat (61 cases) and adjoining areas, r Vijay Bondre, senior scientist at NIV, said. The outbreak was investigated by the National Joint Outbreak Response Team, Dr Bondre said. "The NIV has been working toward identifying potential anti-virals against CHPV. In the search after testing multiple anti-virals, Favipiravir has been identified to give substantial protection against the Chandipura virus infection which has also been established in the preclinical trials in the laboratory," explained Dr Kumar. So far the findings suggest that Favipiravir could be a potential therapeutic option for these infections, he said. "Clinical trials on humans are yet to be carried out to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans," Dr Kumar stated. Dr Bondre said before proceeding to testing on human, the efficacy of the drug against CHPV on animals will be re-established at another organisation - ICMR-National Animal Research Facility for Biological research. This will take another seven to eight months. Currently, the infection is managed through symptomatic treatment and there is no particular drug which is used for its treatment. In addition to it, the NIV has initiated research to develop a vaccine candidate against CHPV. The research will be of great help to the nation to minimise the high fatality due this infection among children, Dr Kumar said. The CHPV is a member of Rhabdoviridae family and is transmitted by arthropod vectors, most probably sand flies. Vector control, hygiene and awareness are the only measures available against the disease. 'The disease affects mostly children under 15 years of age and can present with a febrile illness that may progress to convulsions, coma and in some cases may result in death, Dr Bondre said.
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Favipiravir drug shows promise against Chandipura virus in preclinical studies by NIV
Anti-viral drug Favipiravir has been found to have the potential to provide substantial protection against the Chandipura virus in the preclinical studies conducted by the Pune-based National Institute of Virology(NIV). The Chandipura virus (CHPV) is endemic in central India and symptoms include high fever and seizures. The infection also induces encephalitis. Studies on mice have shown that Favipiravir can reduce viral load and improve survival rates in infected animals, Dr Naveen Kumar, Director of NIV, which is under the Indian Council of Medical Research ( ICMR ), told PTI. The virus was identified during 1965 in Maharashtra from clinical samples of febrile cases. The first significant outbreak was recorded in 2003 in Telangana, which was then part of Andhra Pradesh. It infected over 300 children with more than 50 per cent fatality. Live Events Cases were also reported from Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, Telangana and Gujarat between 2003 and 2007. Even 2007 onwards sporadic cases from endemic regions were reported. In 2024, a major outbreak was reported from Gujarat and adjoining areas of Maharashtra which the WHO described as the largest outbreak in the past 20 years. It emerged to be a major threat for the paediatric population with 64 laboratory confirmed cases of the infection reported from Gujarat (61 cases) and adjoining areas, Dr Vijay Bondre, senior scientist at NIV, said. The outbreak was investigated by the National Joint Outbreak Response Team, Dr Bondre said. "The NIV has been working toward identifying potential anti-virals against CHPV. In the search after testing multiple anti-virals, Favipiravir has been identified to give substantial protection against the Chandipura virus infection which has also been established in the preclinical trials in the laboratory," explained Dr Kumar. So far the findings suggest that Favipiravir could be a potential therapeutic option for these infections, he said. "Clinical trials on humans are yet to be carried out to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans," Dr Kumar stated. Dr Bondre said before proceeding to testing on human, the efficacy of the drug against CHPV on animals will be re-established at another organisation - ICMR-National Animal Research Facility for Biological research. This will take another seven to eight months. Currently, the infection is managed through symptomatic treatment and there is no particular drug which is used for its treatment. In addition to it, the NIV has initiated research to develop a vaccine candidate against CHPV. The research will be of great help to the nation to minimise the high fatality due this infection among children, Dr Kumar said. The CHPV is a member of Rhabdoviridae family and is transmitted by arthropod vectors, most probably sand flies. Vector control, hygiene and awareness are the only measures available against the disease. The disease affects mostly children under 15 years of age and can present with a febrile illness that may progress to convulsions, coma and in some cases may result in death, Dr Bondre said.
The Print
24-06-2025
- Health
- The Print
Favipiravir drug shows promise against Chandipura virus in preclinical studies by NIV
Studies on mice have shown that Favipiravir can reduce viral load and improve survival rates in infected animals, Dr Naveen Kumar, Director of NIV, which is under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), told PTI. The Chandipura virus (CHPV) is endemic in central India and symptoms include high fever and seizures. The infection also induces encephalitis. New Delhi, Jun 24 (PTI) Anti-viral drug Favipiravir has been found to have the potential to provide substantial protection against the Chandipura virus in the preclinical studies conducted by the Pune-based National Institute of Virology(NIV). The virus was identified during 1965 in Maharashtra from clinical samples of febrile cases. The first significant outbreak was recorded in 2003 in Telangana, which was then part of Andhra Pradesh. It infected over 300 children with more than 50 per cent fatality. Cases were also reported from Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, Telangana and Gujarat between 2003 and 2007. Even 2007 onwards sporadic cases from endemic regions were reported. In 2024, a major outbreak was reported from Gujarat and adjoining areas of Maharashtra which the WHO described as the largest outbreak in the past 20 years. It emerged to be a major threat for the paediatric population with 64 laboratory confirmed cases of the infection reported from Gujarat (61 cases) and adjoining areas, Dr Vijay Bondre, senior scientist at NIV, said. The outbreak was investigated by the National Joint Outbreak Response Team, Dr Bondre said. 'The NIV has been working toward identifying potential anti-virals against CHPV. In the search after testing multiple anti-virals, Favipiravir has been identified to give substantial protection against the Chandipura virus infection which has also been established in the preclinical trials in the laboratory,' explained Dr Kumar. So far the findings suggest that Favipiravir could be a potential therapeutic option for these infections, he said. 'Clinical trials on humans are yet to be carried out to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans,' Dr Kumar stated. Dr Bondre said before proceeding to testing on human, the efficacy of the drug against CHPV on animals will be re-established at another organisation – ICMR-National Animal Research Facility for Biological research. This will take another seven to eight months. Currently, the infection is managed through symptomatic treatment and there is no particular drug which is used for its treatment. In addition to it, the NIV has initiated research to develop a vaccine candidate against CHPV. The research will be of great help to the nation to minimise the high fatality due this infection among children, Dr Kumar said. The CHPV is a member of Rhabdoviridae family and is transmitted by arthropod vectors, most probably sand flies. Vector control, hygiene and awareness are the only measures available against the disease. The disease affects mostly children under 15 years of age and can present with a febrile illness that may progress to convulsions, coma and in some cases may result in death, Dr Bondre said. PTI PLB DV DV This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
