Rabies Remains a Silent Killer: 5,700+ Deaths Annually Despite Progress
India continues its battle against rabies, a disease claiming over 5,700 lives annually, despite a significant 75% decline in mortality rates. Millions more suffer the trauma of animal bites – approximately 9 million cases are reported each year.
While Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) is accessible in roughly 80% of public health facilities nationwide, access remains a major challenge. Primary healthcare centres and certain remote regions lag significantly behind in ARV availability.
The national rabies control program, aiming for elimination by 2030, focuses on enhancing vaccine accessibility and bolstering dog vaccination campaigns. However, the sheer scale of the problem and persistent inequities in healthcare access pose formidable hurdles.
The ongoing struggle highlights the critical need for improved infrastructure, especially in rural areas, and increased public awareness campaigns to effectively combat this preventable disease. The success of the 2030 elimination goal hinges on addressing these systemic issues and ensuring equitable access to life-saving ARV for all citizens.
