Rabies risk soars as over 304,000 stray dog attacks reported in Sindh last year
KARACHI: A staggering 304,069 dog bite cases were reported to the public sector healthcare facilities in Sindh in 2024, with a yearly average increase of 25,800 cases since 2021, exposing the province's struggles to contain the stray dog menace and prevent the spread of rabies. Experts and literary searches reveal that rabies poses a significant public health threat due to the presence of a large stray dog population. These animals frequently attack people without provocation, necessitating treatment and protection from rabies in both urban and rural areas. However, decision-makers and authorities are struggling to find effective solutions to manage the stray dog population. A senior KMC health officer emphasised that town, union council, or district municipalities are responsible for managing stray dogs, as well as other wildlife. “Despite the high incidence of dog bite cases, authorities have yet to find a meaningful solution, with debates surrounding culling or spaying/neute...