Our Bureau
SHILLONG/TURA, Sept 26: Meghalaya has been reporting over 19,000 dog-bite cases annually, with more than 5,000 from East Khasi Hills alone, and 15 deaths already recorded so far in 2025.
This data was shared by National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP) District Nodal Officer, Dr. RR Marak, during a programme to observe World Rabies Day 2025 at Lumparing Sports Club Indoor Hall under the theme ‘Act Now: You, Me and the Community’.
Dr. Marak noted that most deaths occur not due to lack of treatment facilities, but because bites, scratches, and licks on broken skin—often from unsuspecting infected pets—are taken lightly.
On the other hand, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Minister Sanbor Shullai, in his address, urged the people to vaccinate their pets, promptly manage dog-bite wounds and support stray dog control.
He also stated that rabies is 100% preventable but fatal if neglected.
Meanwhile, East Khasi Hills Additional Deputy Commissioner PK Sangma highlighted the urgent need for community action to prevent rabies.
Speaking at the programme, Dr. Lambert Syiemlieh, Senior Medical and Health Officer in charge of Laban Dispensary, spoke on ‘Human Rabies and Prevention Measures’, while Dr. Freedy Nongdhar, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Officer, discussed rabies in animals and control strategies.
The event also featured a pledge-taking ceremony led by Shullai, a poster competition for schoolchildren and a special drive to catch and vaccinate stray dogs.
World Rabies Day, observed annually on September 28, commemorates Louis Pasteur and aims to raise awareness about prevention, responsible pet ownership and timely action against rabies.
The programme was organised by the District Joint Steering Committee for Rabies Elimination, East Khasi Hills, in collaboration with the Health and Veterinary departments, Shillong Municipal Board, NGOs and community leaders.
A similar programme to mark World Rabies Day was held at Garobadha PHC in South West Garo Hills, where communities were called upon to take responsibility in raising awareness and promoting rabies prevention.
The programme, organised by the District Medical & Health Office and District Health Society in collaboration with the District AH & Veterinary department, saw active participation from local communities, including elders, ASHAs, Anganwadi workers, SHGs, teachers and students. The awareness programme also featured an interactive session where participants raised queries on vaccination, animal bites and related issues. These were addressed by the experts present on the occasion.
