Rabies in India: An Overview

The issue of rabies in India is severe, with the country experiencing an estimated 20,000 rabies-related human deaths annually, accounting for one-third of the world's rabies fatalities. The main reservoir of the virus is dogs, and the disease primarily affects the poorest segments of society.

Current Situation in Hospitals

• Rabies patients are often admitted to isolated wards due to severe symptoms like hydrophobia and hallucinations.
• Cases are predominantly reported among daily wage workers and those living in remote areas.

Preventive Measures and Challenges

• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is crucial and involves washing the wound, anti-rabies vaccination (ARV), and administering rabies immunoglobulin (RIG).
• There is a significant shortage and high cost of RIG, with prices ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000, making it inaccessible for many.
• A study found that 20.5% of dog bite victims did not receive ARV, and nearly half did not complete the full vaccination course.

Socioeconomic Factors and Access to Treatment

• Financial constraints prevent many from vaccinating their dogs, leading to higher risk of rabies.
• Families often resort to local quacks due to high medical costs and lack of access to proper healthcare.
• Out-of-pocket expenditure on health continues to push families into poverty.

Regulatory and Community Initiatives

• In November 2025, the Supreme Court ordered states to place stray dogs in shelters after sterilization and vaccination.
• This directive has been criticized as "impractical" and "cruel" by animal rights activists.

Proposed Solutions

• Community action is encouraged, with dog lovers urged to support, neuter, and vaccinate strays.
• Improving the availability of PEP and ARV across the country is essential.
• Development of cheaper, indigenous drugs like rabies monoclonal antibodies (RmAbs) is underway but not yet included in national guidelines.

Conclusion

Addressing rabies in India requires a multifaceted approach, including better healthcare accessibility, enhanced community involvement, and comprehensive vaccination programs for both humans and dogs. Protecting human health and animal welfare should be a priority, aiming to eliminate preventable rabies deaths.