Sindh Steps Up Efforts To Prevent Rabies, Targets Zero Deaths By 2030
UrduPoint (September 28, 2026) - The Sindh Health Department held an awareness rally on Sunday to mark World Rabies Day, raising public awareness about rabies prevention and dog-bite incidents.
Dr Pervez Sheikh, Deputy Director General Health Services Sindh, and Dr Saeed Ahmed Jalbani, Rabies Focal Person, emphasized the importance of timely medical treatment, vaccination, and public awareness in preventing rabies. They noted that this day commemorates French scientist Louis Pasteur, who created the first rabies vaccine.
According to health department officials, Pakistan saw around 285,000 dog-bite cases last year, with over 140,000 reported in the first six months of this year. A significant number of victims were children, prompting them to urge parents to keep children away from stray dogs and teach them preventive measures.
They advised the following steps in case of a dog bite:
- Wash the wound immediately with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
- Seek medical assessment and anti-rabies vaccination at the nearest health facility without delay.
The Sindh government has over 150,000 doses of anti-rabies vaccine available province-wide. They've established 371 vaccination centers, 278 wound-washing and treatment centers, and 112 anti-rabies referral centers providing immunoglobulin (RIG) for severe wounds when necessary.
In Hyderabad, rabies prevention and treatment facilities are also available at:
- Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS)
- Qasimabad Hospital
- Bhitai Hospital
The officials stressed the need for a collaborative effort between the health department, local government, municipal authorities, rescue services, and other institutions to eliminate rabies by 2030. They urged citizens not to rely on home remedies or delay treatment after a dog bite, emphasizing that immediate wound washing and timely vaccination are crucial.