Port Blair, Sept. 27: World Rabies Day will be observed on September 28, 2023, both in the country and globally. This day is dedicated to marking the death anniversary of the renowned French Microbiologist, Sir Louis Pasteur, who developed the first Rabies vaccine. Rabies is a deadly virus that affects mammals, primarily transmitted through infected saliva entering the body via a bite or broken skin. It is responsible for causing viral encephalitis and results in the unfortunate death of up to 70,000 people worldwide each year.

Fortunately, the Islands, along with a few States in mainland India, is considered free from this disease. To maintain this status and protect the health of the community, it is essential for all pets, especially those brought from the mainland, to be vaccinated annually against this deadly disease.

To commemorate World Rabies Day and contribute to rabies prevention, an Immunization Camp is being organized by the Veterinary Department at the Veterinary Hospital, Junglighat on Sept. 28 at 9 am. During this event, dogs and cats brought by pet owners will be provided with free immunization doses against Rabies using the Anti Rabies vaccine (ARV).

In light of this, all pet owners have been urged to bring their pets to the Veterinary Hospital at Junglighat near Goalghar Junction on September 28, 2023 at 9 am to ensure that their pets are protected through vaccination against the Rabies disease.