Karnataka to Provide Free Anti-Rabies Vaccination for 1.1 Million Pets
Karnataka launches a free vaccination program for pets to combat rabies, aiming for zero human fatalities by 2030.
The state will vaccinate 1.1 million pets against rabies in October and November.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to eliminate dog-mediated rabies deaths by 2030.
Frontline workers will receive special vaccines to protect against rabies.
In a significant public health initiative, the Karnataka government has announced a free anti-rabies vaccination program targeting 1.1 million pets throughout the state during October and November. This effort is part of the Assistance to States for Control of Animal Diseases (ASCAD) program, as stated by C Puttarangashetty, the state's animal husbandry minister, during the launch event for World Rabies Day 2026 at the Indian Institute of Science.
The vaccination campaign is aligned with Karnataka's ambitious goal of achieving zero human deaths caused by dog-mediated rabies by the year 2030. Minister Puttarangashetty emphasized the importance of preventive measures, stating that timely vaccination is crucial for safeguarding both animal and human populations against this deadly disease.
To ensure the effectiveness of the campaign, frontline personnel involved in the vaccination drive will be administered the ABHAYRAB vaccine, which is specifically designed to prevent rabies infection. This proactive approach highlights the state's commitment to not only animal welfare but also public health.
Vinoth Priya R, the secretary of the animal husbandry and fisheries department, underscored the necessity of a 'one health' approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health to effectively eliminate rabies. This holistic strategy is essential for the long-term success of the vaccination program and the overall health of the community.
Looking ahead, the Karnataka government plans to mobilize resources and personnel to ensure the smooth execution of the vaccination campaign. As the state gears up for this significant health initiative, residents are encouraged to participate and ensure their pets are vaccinated, contributing to the collective goal of eradicating rabies in the region.
