Is Another Tragic Case in Kerala Unfolding? Vaccinated Child Fights for Her Life After Testing Positive for Rabies
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Synopsis
In Kerala, a seven-year-old girl battles for her life after testing rabies positive, just days after another child succumbed to the disease. This alarming situation raises questions about the effectiveness of rabies vaccines and the increasing threats posed by stray dogs.
Key Takeaways
- Recent rabies cases in Kerala have raised concerns about vaccination effectiveness.
- A seven-year-old girl is currently battling rabies despite receiving full treatment.
- The Kerala government is investigating the increasing number of rabies cases linked to stray dogs.
- Adherence to vaccination protocols is crucial for rabies prevention.
- Public awareness and education on rabies are urgently needed.
Thiruvananthapuram, May 3 (NationPress) Just five days after the tragic loss of a six-year-old girl who had undergone all necessary anti-rabies treatment, a seven-year-old girl is currently fighting for her life after also receiving complete anti-rabies care.
The worried mother from Kollam shared that her daughter was attacked by a stray dog on April 8.
“We rushed her to the hospital where she was given both anti-rabies serum (ARS) and intradermal rabies vaccine (IDRV),” she recounted, visibly shaken. “She had only one dosage left to take, but developed a fever. Subsequently, we took her to the Taluk hospital and later moved her to the SAT hospital in the capital, where she is currently critical, according to the medical staff. We are perplexed by this situation as we followed all the medical advice given,” the mother explained.
Coincidentally, this incident arises just five days post the death of another six-year-old girl in Malappuram district due to rabies on April 28.
This child had been bitten by the same stray dog on March 29, which had also attacked seven other individuals on that day.
While all others recovered, the six-year-old’s health deteriorated despite receiving both ARS and IDRV, ultimately leading to her tragic demise on April 28, leaving the community in profound sorrow.
According to the Kerala Health Directorate, statistics reveal that from 2021, there have been 102 rabies fatalities, with 19 percent of these individuals having received both vaccines.
In response to public concern over rising stray dog attacks and fatalities occurring even after vaccination, the Kerala government established a committee in 2022 to investigate. The findings indicated that the bites leading to these deaths were primarily located on the neck, face, and head.
After conducting tests on the ADR and IDRV vaccines, the committee confirmed their compliance with established standards.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the complexities surrounding rabies cases in Kerala. The tragic incidents highlight the urgent need for enhanced public health measures and education regarding rabies prevention. The adherence to vaccination protocols must be scrutinized, and further research is warranted to ensure community safety.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of rabies?
Symptoms of rabies include fever, headache, anxiety, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, and paralysis. If you suspect rabies exposure, seek medical attention immediately.
How effective are rabies vaccines?
Rabies vaccines are highly effective when administered promptly after exposure. However, their effectiveness may diminish if not completed on schedule or if the exposure is severe.
What should I do if bitten by a stray dog?
If bitten by a stray dog, immediately wash the wound with soap and water, apply antiseptic, and seek medical attention for evaluation and potential rabies vaccination.
What precautions can be taken to avoid rabies?
To avoid rabies, avoid contact with stray animals, ensure your pets are vaccinated, and report stray animals to local authorities.
Is rabies treatable once symptoms appear?
Once symptoms of rabies appear, the disease is almost always fatal. Immediate medical intervention is critical after exposure.
