DHS Kerala Report Links Dog-Bite Deaths to Delayed Care

PATHANAMTHITTA: In a disturbing development, the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) has officially linked recent dog-bite fatalities in Kerala to delays in seeking treatment, along with shortages of rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) at local health centres.

The findings, submitted to the Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, stem from a detailed investigation launched after a petition by local activist group KUL, which raised concerns about rising dog attacks and inadequate emergency responses.

“The lack of immediate access to RIG and critical delays in reaching a medical facility proved fatal in several cases,” the DHS report stated.

Key findings include:

• Shortage of RIG at primary health centres

• Low public awareness regarding post-bite treatment timelines

• Gaps in immunisation of pets, particularly in rural areas

The report stops short of assigning blame to individual health workers but recommends urgent systemic reforms.

The Commission has now called for a statewide audit of RIG availability, better coordination with local veterinary offices, and a public awareness campaign.