Pune Municipal Corporation Aims to Vaccinate 1.80 Lakh Stray Dogs in Rabies-Free Campaign
In a determined effort to combat rabies and align with the Union government’s Rabies-Free campaign directives, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) health department has set an ambitious target to vaccinate 1.80 lakh stray dogs within the city limits over the next six months.
This initiative comes in response to a recent spate of tragic fatalities attributed to rabies within urban areas, highlighting the pressing need for robust healthcare infrastructure to contain the outbreak effectively. The urgency is further underscored by the Central government’s mandate to achieve a rabies-free status nationwide by 2030.
Under the National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP), the PMC aims to implement comprehensive vaccination efforts, providing free rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin, along with training on animal bite management. Strengthening surveillance systems and fostering intersectoral coordination are also integral components of this initiative. Additionally, awareness campaigns will be launched to educate the public about rabies prevention measures.
Acknowledging the importance of holistic approaches, the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) advocates for effective implementation of animal birth control rules, focusing on anti-rabies vaccination and neutering of stray dogs to stabilize their population.
The National Action Plan for the Elimination of Dog-mediated Rabies (NAPRE) serves as a structured framework, drawing insights from various stakeholders to combat rabies effectively. PMC emphasizes the significance of mass vaccination and sterilization of stray dogs, aligning with the Rabies-Free City programme mandated by the central government.
The vaccination assumes significance in the wake of six fatalities that took place due to rabies within the urban area. The rising number of deaths has raised concerns about the PMC’s healthcare systems in combating the outbreak of rabies.
PMC Veterinary Department Head Dr Sarika Phunde said, “Mass vaccination of street dogs will take place as part of Rabies free city programme under directions of the central government. Five organisations have been appointed for the work for vaccination and sterilisation which will begin soon.”
To execute the ambitious initiative, five designated organizations have been entrusted with the task, signaling a collaborative effort towards creating rabies-free urban environments and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and animals alike.
