Sindh Rolls Out Rabies Prevention Drive to Protect Communities
Sindh Intensifies Efforts Against Rabies
The Sindh government has launched a comprehensive rabies prevention campaign to tackle the rising number of dog‑bite cases and rabies‑related deaths across the province. Officials revealed that over 285,000 dog‑bite incidents were recorded in 2025, with 22 deaths reported in major hospitals. Alarmingly, 85,891 cases have already been documented in the first four months of 2026.
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah emphasized that rabies is a completely preventable disease, and no citizen should lose their life due to lack of awareness, vaccines, or timely treatment. He announced a coordinated strategy that includes public awareness campaigns, vaccination drives, improved treatment facilities, and humane stray dog population management.
To strengthen healthcare response, 278 WHO‑standard Rabies Prevention Units have been established across Sindh, supported by 112 referral centers for severe exposure cases. So far, 63,000 patients have received anti‑rabies vaccines, while 8,700 patients were treated with rabies immunoglobulin.
The campaign also focuses on controlling the stray dog population. Since 2022, the Sindh Rabies Control Program has sterilized 25,500 dogs and vaccinated 36,900 dogs across 20 districts, including Karachi. These measures aim to reduce transmission risks while ensuring humane and sustainable solutions.
Murad Ali Shah paid tribute to late infectious diseases expert Dr. Naseem Salahuddin, calling her a pioneer of rabies prevention in Pakistan. He stressed that her vision of a “Rabies‑Free Pakistan” continues to inspire public health initiatives.
The provincial government has directed local authorities to accelerate dog population management programs in both urban and rural areas. Shah highlighted the need for scientific and humane approaches rather than temporary responses, ensuring long‑term protection for communities.
This campaign marks a significant step toward eliminating rabies deaths in Sindh, combining medical intervention, public education, and community engagement to safeguard lives.