Nagpur: In a scary development, it has been revealed that a total of 4,361 dog bite cases were recorded within the limits of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) from January 1 to May 31, 2024. This translates to an alarming average of 29 dog bite cases reported daily to the NMC’s Health Department. Tragically, these incidents include two deaths due to rabies, one each occurring in March and April, NMC data shows.
Comparatively, the same period in 2023 saw 3,848 dog bite cases, averaging just over 25 cases per day. For the entire year of 2023, the average daily count of dog bites was 27, compared to 25 in 2022. The annual tally for 2023 reached a staggering 9,100 cases, while 2022 recorded 8,317 cases. Moreover, 2023 witnessed five rabies fatalities, with one in July and two each in November and December.
This year, the highest number of cases, 955, were reported in January. In the subsequent four months, the numbers remained above 800 each month. The 2024 statistics indicate that the authorities have struggled to control the menace of stray dog attacks. Measures to address the issue have faced setbacks due to strong opposition from dog lovers, despite orders from the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court urging action.
While the government lacks specific data distinguishing between bites by stray and domesticated dogs, officials indicate that the majority of victims across all age groups were attacked by stray dogs. This has led to a rise in panic among citizens, particularly those who go for morning or evening walks or ride during night time in various localities. Unaccompanied children have also been frequent victims of canine aggression.
The unchecked proliferation of chicken and mutton shops has been blamed for the increased aggression among stray dogs. Additionally, feeding by dog lovers in various places has been cited by some as a factor worsening the situation. In certain instances, harassment of stray dogs by citizens has led to attacks.
Most dog bite cases were reported from government healthcare facilities, including Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMCH), AIIMS, Isolation Hospital, Indira Gandhi Hospital, Pachpaoli Maternity Home, and Diagnostic Centres at Sadar and Mahal. The NMC tracks dog bite incidents through the number of rabies vaccines administered at these facilities.
Very few private hospitals stock anti-rabies vaccines due to their high cost and short shelf life. Each vial contains five doses and must be used within three hours of opening, posing logistical challenges for private healthcare providers.
The surge in dog bite cases and the subsequent rabies deaths in Nagpur highlight a pressing public health issue. Immediate and effective measures are needed to address the stray dog menace and ensure the safety of the city’s residents.
