What Actions Will Follow the Rabies Death of a Kerala Woman?
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Synopsis
The tragic death of a 65-year-old woman in Kerala due to rabies has sparked urgent calls for action from the state's Human Rights Commission. With a significant rise in stray dog attacks, the government's response is crucial in preventing further tragedies.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent action needed to control rabies in Kerala.
- Significant rise in stray dog attacks reported.
- Over 165,000 dog bites in the last five months.
- Government instructed to develop a comprehensive strategy.
- Importance of collaboration among public health departments.
Pathanamthitta, Oct 4 (IANS) A 65-year-old woman from Pathanamthitta succumbed to rabies after being attacked by a stray dog, which has led the Kerala State Human Rights Commission to instruct the government to formulate an urgent action plan to avert further fatalities.
The deceased, Krishnamma, who lived in Mannaramala, was bitten by a stray dog during the first week of September.
She was receiving treatment at Kottayam Medical College Hospital and had reportedly received the anti-rabies vaccine.
During the incident, she fell and sustained a severe bite on her face.
Despite receiving medical attention, her health deteriorated, and she ultimately lost her battle with the infection.
This incident comes against the backdrop of a disturbing rise in stray dog attacks throughout the state.
In just the last five months, more than 165,000 individuals have been bitten by stray dogs, and 17 fatalities have occurred due to rabies.
Recognizing the escalating public health crisis, Justice Alexander Thomas, Chairperson of the Kerala State Human Rights Commission, has called on the government to devise a thorough plan to tackle rabies and manage the stray dog population.
This directive follows the suggestion from Jacob John, former head of Virology at Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, advocating for a specialized task force to unify rabies prevention efforts across various departments.
Justice Thomas also highlighted the significance of the Justice Siri Jagan Commission, established by the Supreme Court to determine compensation for dog bite victims, and requested clarity from the government regarding the commission's ongoing activities.
The Additional Chief Secretary of the Local Self-Government Department has been mandated to provide a comprehensive report within a month.
The Commission has opened a suo motu case based on media reports, urging the state to implement immediate measures to lessen stray dog attacks and avert rabies-related fatalities.
Point of View
The tragic rabies-related death of a woman in Kerala underscores a pressing public health issue that transcends regional boundaries. It calls for a unified national response to manage stray dog populations and enhance rabies prevention strategies to safeguard citizens across the country.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the woman's death?
The woman died from rabies after being bitten by a stray dog.
What action is the Kerala government taking?
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has directed the government to develop an immediate action plan to prevent further deaths.
How many people have been bitten by stray dogs recently?
Over 165,000 individuals have been bitten by stray dogs in the past five months.
What is the recommendation from Jacob John?
Jacob John suggested the formation of a dedicated task force for rabies prevention.
What is the role of the Justice Siri Jagan Commission?
The commission is responsible for determining compensation for dog bite victims.
