Tamil Nadu Reports Sharp Rise in Dog Bites and Rabies Deaths in 2025
Tamil Nadu is witnessing a sharp surge in dog-bite incidents, reporting around 5.25 lakh cases so far in 2025, along with 28 human rabies deaths. The Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has strongly urged a coordinated response across departments to stem the growing crisis. The health department has directed all primary health centres to remain open round-the-clock for administering anti-rabies vaccination and post-exposure prophylaxis. Experts highlight critical gaps in vaccine access, wound care, and follow-up treatment, especially in underserved areas. They warn that without better cross-sectoral collaboration — involving veterinary, municipal, and forest departments — the cycle of infection and fatalities may worsen. Meanwhile, data suggests that both stray and pet dogs contribute to the spread, underlining the need for sustained immunisation, sterilisation campaigns, and robust public awareness to reduce transmission and safeguard lives.
