Belagavi launches month-long rabies awareness drive

Belagavi : The district department of animal husbandry has launched a comprehensive rabies awareness and vaccination campaign across Belagavi throughout Sept, ahead of World Rabies Day 2026, under the message that rabies is preventable but a moment's negligence can prove fatal. The campaign is being run through the district's 203 veterinary clinics, which are serving as key outreach points for spreading awareness. As part of the drive, 66,395 leaflets and 1,084 posters have been distributed, providing information on rabies prevention, animal vaccination, and the emergency steps to take in the event of a dog bite. World Rabies Day is observed annually on Sept 28. In the lead-up to this year's observance, awareness programmes are being conducted in schools, colleges, gram panchayats, local self-govt bodies, and among citizens across the district. What to do in case of a dog bite Officials have reiterated key first-response guidelines: if bitten or scratched by a dog or any suspected animal, the wound should be washed immediately with soap and clean running water for 15 minutes, followed by an urgent visit to the nearest health centre for consultation with a specialist doctor. The department has cautioned against applying substances such as black pepper, oil, or ointments to the wound, and has advised strongly against home remedies of any kind. Ignoring a dog bite can be dangerous, officials said, and immediate medical treatment is essential. Vaccination and community role The department has emphasised the importance of regularly vaccinating pet dogs and cats, noting that proper healthcare for these animals — beyond vaccination alone — plays a vital role in controlling rabies. Officials also underlined the crucial role of local self-government bodies in supporting stray dog vaccination drives and public awareness efforts. The department of animal husbandry has adopted the slogan 'Vaccinate, Create Awareness, Save Lives' for this year's campaign. On the occasion of World Rabies Day, the department has urged residents to stay vigilant and safe, calling for a collective effort to make Belagavi rabies-free. Stay updated with the latest Hubballi news. Download the TOI App.