Chennai, 5 July (IANS). After the death of two people from rabies in Kerala, Tamil Nadu’s Public Health and Preventive Medical Directorate issued strict advice to all health workers.
The circular was emphasized to give immediate need to give appropriate training to identify dog bite category and proper post-exposure Profilaxis (PEP), which includes rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) and anti-rebase vaccine (ARV).
Public Health Director Dr. TS Selvinayam told the health officials that rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system. The chances of survival after appearing its symptoms are very low.
He said that rabies vaccine can save life only when it is given properly and quickly.
The advisory has been released after the death of two boys in Kerala, which was bitten by stray dogs.
The cause of death is believed to be delayed in introducing PEP (post-exposure Profilaxis), not giving RIG (rabies immunoglobulin) in category III cases, not cleaning the wound properly, leaving or delayed vaccine.
Healthcare providers are reminded that rabies immune globulin (RIG) in deep or bleeding lesions is very important to prevent virus, especially until the vaccine develops immunity.
Without RIG, the virus can spread to the nervous system even after vaccination. Officials said that immediately and intensive treatment is needed when there is a wound on the face or head, as even a few days of delay can neutralize the vaccine.
The most important step to prevent rabies is to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
Advisory states that children are more at risk of rabies due to dog bites, as their immunity is weak and they are unable to give correct information about cutting.
The Directorate of Health has repeated guidelines to check the seriousness of dog bites.
Category I: No treatment is necessary when the animal touch, feeding or licking on clean skin.
Category II: If a minor scratch or wound is without blood, rabies vaccine (AIV) will have to be given.
Category III: If blood comes out of dog bites or scratches, or licking on a broken skin, it is mandatory to give rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) with rabies vaccine (ARV).
All health centers have been asked to strictly follow these rules so that the deaths of rabies can be prevented.
-IANS
PSK/KR