Annamayya District Joint Collector Sivanarayana Sharma on Monday called for collective efforts by all government departments, NGOs, and the public to prevent rabies deaths, stressing that awareness and timely vaccination are crucial.
Releasing the publicity posters in observance of World Rabies Day at the Collectorate here, the Joint Collector said that rabies is a highly fatal zoonotic disease, but can be prevented through awareness and prompt vaccination. He said that 2026 would be observed with the theme “Acting together, stronger to spread awareness”.
Mr. Sharma said that most human rabies cases were due to dog bites, and vaccinating dogs and cats could effectively check the spread. “All departments should work in coordination to achieve zero cases by 2030,” he said.
The Joint Collector said that in case of a dog or any animal bite, the wound should be washed thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 10-15 minutes. Chilli powder, turmeric, lime, coffee powder, or leaf pastes should not be applied, and the wound should not be tightly bandaged or stitched without medical advice. After first aid, the victim should immediately rush to the nearest government hospital and take the anti-rabies vaccine. “The vaccine is available free of charge at all government hospitals,” he said.
He said that pet owners should compulsorily get their dogs and cats vaccinated, with the first dose at three months of age and booster dose every year, and they should preserve the vaccination records. “Local bodies should effectively implement animal birth control and mass anti-rabies vaccination for stray dogs. Children should be cautioned against provoking or pelting stones at street dogs, especially sleeping ones,” he said.
Published – September 28, 2026 07:59 pm IST
