Doda, July 4 (IANS). Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a rapid increase in the cases of stray dog bites. District Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Vinod Sharma told IANS that around 1,510 dog bite cases were reported in Doda last year, whereas till June this year alone, more than 700 cases have been reported. This figure remains a matter of concern for the health department.
Dr. Vinod Sharma said that most of the cases of animal bites are caused by dogs, although in some cases monkeys or other wild animals can also be involved. But most of the incidents are happening due to stray dogs, which are becoming a threat to people due to ever increasing numbers and human contact.
He said that the number of stray dogs is very high in Doda, due to which the cases of dog bites are also increasing. Many times dogs become aggressive only when they feel in danger or they find someone suspicious. However, he also admitted that in many cases dogs bite people even without any provocation.
The CMO said that the solution to this problem is not only treatment but also prevention. For this, sterilization and vaccination of stray dogs is very important. He said that if the number of dogs is controlled and they are given timely vaccination, then the risk of serious diseases like rabies can be reduced to a great extent.
Dr. Sharma also said that rabies is an extremely fatal disease, which can prove to be 100 percent fatal if not treated on time. Although rabies vaccine is available at government hospitals and health centres, it is important for people to seek timely treatment.
He said that if someone is bitten by a dog or any animal, one should immediately contact a doctor and get complete vaccination. Often people are careless and do not complete the entire course, which increases the risk.
The doctor said that in case of rabies, monitoring for 10 days is also important. If the bitten dog remains healthy for 10 days, the risk of infection usually decreases. But if the dog becomes ill or dies, immediate treatment for the patient becomes necessary.
He also clarified that this disease can be spread not only by stray dogs but also by pet dogs if they are not fully vaccinated. Therefore, regular vaccination and monitoring of pets is also necessary.
Dr. Sharma appealed to the people that in case of any animal bite, instead of treating themselves or taking incomplete treatment, they should directly contact a specialist doctor. He said that many times people buy partial medicines from quacks or chemists, due to which the situation becomes more serious.
He also said that prevention of diseases like rabies is possible only through awareness and timely treatment. If people take full precautions and take vaccination seriously, deaths due to this disease can be prevented to a great extent.
–IANS
PIM/AS
