Tamil Nadu Reports 2.63 Lakh Dog Bites, 17 Rabies Deaths in First Four Months of 2026
In the first four months of 2026, Tamil Nadu recorded 2.63 lakh dog bite cases and 17 deaths from rabies, according to data from the Directorate of Public Health (DPH) and Preventive Medicine. This represents a substantial share of the 6.25 lakh bites and half of the 34 deaths reported in the entire previous year.
The monthly breakdown shows 62,000 cases in January, 62,000 in February, 71,000 in March, and 68,000 in April. Districts including Chennai, Salem, Tiruchi, and Dindigul reported higher numbers. Experts have repeatedly called for sustained measures to control the stray dog population, strengthen Animal Birth Control (ABC) programmes, and improve rabies vaccination coverage among dogs.
Dr. A. Somasundaram, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, noted a marginal increase in cases. “There is no specific treatment or medication for rabies, and it is 100% fatal. The only tool to prevent rabies is vaccination,” he said. He added that awareness about anti-rabies vaccination has improved, with better compliance. The Health Department focuses on proper wound washing, administration of Anti-Rabies Vaccine, and rabies immunoglobulin based on bite categorisation.
The Madras High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the issue to protect people from stray dogs in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. With the stray dog population rising, experts say ABC measures and dog vaccination remain challenging. An official stressed that veterinarians and local bodies need to collaborate on vaccinating dogs and implementing ABC programmes.
The DPH is intensifying defaulter tracing to ensure people complete the full vaccine course after the first dose. Dr. Somasundaram emphasised the need to safeguard children and not leave them unattended outdoors, as many believe pet dog bites are harmless but require anti-rabies vaccination.
Dr. S. Chandrasekar, professor and head of the Department of Medicine at Government Stanley Medical College Hospital, stressed protecting children, who are more vulnerable. “No animal bite should be ignored. Prevention is key. In Category III bites—transdermal bites or scratches, licks on broken skin—rabies immunoglobulin should be administered,” he said.
