LAHORE: Punjab has reported its third rabies-related death this October, raising concerns about stray dog attacks, public safety and the availability of anti-rabies vaccines across the province.
The latest victim was a 70-year-old man from Jaranwala who died at Mayo Hospital in Lahore after developing symptoms of rabies. According to reports, the man, identified as Anwar, had been bitten by a dog approximately two months before his death.
He initially received treatment at the District Headquarters Hospital in Nankana Sahib. However, as his condition deteriorated, he was transferred to Mayo Hospital on October 17 and admitted to the isolation ward, where doctors diagnosed rabies. He later died after his condition worsened.
Thousands of Dog-Bite Incidents Reported
Punjab continues to face a significant public health challenge due to dog-bite incidents. According to reported figures, the province has recorded 70,586 dog-bite cases in 2026 so far, including 30,514 cases in Lahore.
The high number of incidents has raised concerns about the effectiveness of existing measures to control stray dog populations and protect residents from potentially infected animals.
Calls for Stronger Preventive Measures
The latest death has renewed demands for improved stray dog management, reliable supplies of anti-rabies vaccines and greater public awareness. Health and local government authorities face pressure to strengthen preventive programmes and ensure that people exposed to potentially rabid animals can access timely medical care.
Suggested measures include vaccination and sterilisation programmes for stray dogs, improved waste management and coordinated efforts between municipal administrations and health departments.
Rabies Can Be Prevented With Timely Treatment
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear. However, prompt treatment following exposure can prevent the disease from developing.
Health experts advise people bitten or scratched by a potentially rabid animal to wash the affected area with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention. A healthcare professional can determine whether rabies vaccination and rabies immunoglobulin are required.
The latest death highlights the need for effective prevention, accessible vaccines and prompt medical treatment to reduce rabies-related fatalities in Punjab.
