99% FATAL, YET 100% PREVENTABLE DISEASE: ANIMAL HUSBANDRY & VETERINARY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) observed the 15th “World Rabies Day” on the theme “Rabies: Facts Not Fear” on September 28.
According to a DIPR report, AH&VS stated that the pandemic raised many doubts and misconceptions about vaccination in general and there was hesitancy in the roll-out of vaccines in many countries and many people are afraid to get vaccinated.
In this regard, the department informed that for rabies, this was nothing new, as fears, misconceptions and misinformation about the disease and its prevention date back hundreds of years. For that reason, it said that the year’s theme was focused on sharing facts about rabies and fear about the disease which stem from relying on misinformation and myths.
AH&VS celebrated the day across Nagaland by conducting awareness programmes to raise awareness and educate others about rabies – a 99% fatal, yet 100% preventable disease.
During the programmes, free anti-rabies vaccines were also administered to the pets. Altogether, 2024 dogs were vaccinated against rabies.
Kiphire: Awareness on rabies and free anti rabies vaccination drive was conducted at district veterinary hospital, Kiphire.
In a press release, chief veterinary & AH officer Kiphire, Dr. Tsilise Sangtam informed that the day aims to raise awareness about the impact of rabies on humans and animals and also to support advocacy for increased efforts in rabies control. He also said that although rabies was a communicable and fatal disease, it was preventable. In this regard, he urged everyone to be aware about the disease.
Wokha: Commemorating world rabies day along with the rest of the world, Wokha district conducted an anti-rabies vaccination drive at veterinary hospital, Wokha and QCP Merapani.
In a press release, AH&VS Wokha district informed that 250 dogs were vaccinated against rabies.