Is Chennai Corporation's 50-Day Dog Vaccination Drive Starting August 7 the Key to Combating Rabies?
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Synopsis
Chennai is set to witness a groundbreaking 50-day canine vaccination drive by the GCC starting August 7, aiming to immunize one lakh dogs against rabies and other diseases. This extensive initiative is a crucial step to enhance public health and safety.
Key Takeaways
- 50-day vaccination drive starting August 7.
- Aim to vaccinate one lakh dogs.
- Includes both stray and pet dogs.
- Targeting 3,000 vaccinations daily.
- Five-in-one vaccine to combat multiple canine diseases.
Chennai, Aug 3 (NationPress) Following a five-year gap in comprehensive canine vaccinations, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) is launching an extensive 50-day vaccination initiative starting August 7. This program aims to vaccinate one lakh stray and pet dogs, striving to eliminate rabies and various other canine illnesses.
The municipal authority plans to vaccinate approximately 3,000 dogs daily across different city zones.
Previously, only sterilised stray dogs received routine vaccinations at Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers. This new initiative will broaden the scope to include unsterilised stray dogs and pet dogs, aiming to interrupt the transmission of rabies.
Dr. J. Kamal Hussain, Veterinary Officer at GCC, stated, “To achieve a rabies-free Chennai, we are implementing several measures, including sterilisation and vaccination. A recent survey identified over 1.8 lakh stray dogs in the city. Until now, only those presented at ABC centers were vaccinated. This mass vaccination campaign, commencing on August 7, will target the remaining unvaccinated stray population.”
The drive will start in three zones, expanding citywide thereafter. Ten specially trained teams will conduct the vaccinations, with each team expected to immunize at least 100 dogs daily.
Dr. Hussain also mentioned that the rabies vaccine will be provided as a five-in-one vaccine, which not only protects against rabies but also canine distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, and leptospirosis. Additionally, dogs will receive treatment with endectoparasiticide to combat tick and parasite infestations.
“Our goal is to vaccinate at least one lakh dogs through this focused campaign,” he stated.
Chennai records about 20,000 to 30,000 dog bite incidents each year. During a recent council meeting, several ward councillors expressed concerns regarding the increasing stray dog population and the necessity for consistent anti-rabies vaccinations.
“Sterilisation alone does not mitigate dog bites. Post-surgery, the dogs are returned to the same areas. Without adequate vaccination, the risk remains significantly high,” noted animal rights activist and social worker Christine Thomas.
Animal welfare advocates have endorsed the GCC’s initiative. “If this vaccination campaign had started sooner, a larger segment of the dog population could have been safeguarded. Nevertheless, this is a crucial step toward decreasing human-animal conflict,” remarked C. Rajeev, an animal rights activist.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the Greater Chennai Corporation's proactive move to address the pressing issue of rabies through a comprehensive vaccination drive. This initiative not only showcases a commitment to public health but also reflects a balanced approach towards animal welfare. While concerns about stray populations persist, the GCC's efforts are a step in the right direction for community safety and animal rights.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the vaccination drive?
The vaccination drive will last for 50 days, starting from August 7.
How many dogs are expected to be vaccinated?
The Greater Chennai Corporation aims to vaccinate one lakh dogs during this initiative.
Will both stray and pet dogs be vaccinated?
Yes, the drive will cover both unsterilised stray dogs and pet dogs.
What kind of vaccine will be administered?
Dogs will receive a five-in-one vaccine that protects against rabies and other diseases.
Why is this vaccination drive necessary?
It is essential to curb rabies transmission and reduce the risks associated with dog bites.
