World Rabies Day: A Safe Shot for Communities
September 28 marks World Rabies Day, a global reminder of the power of vaccination to protect both people and animals. This year’s theme, as highlighted by the World Health Organization, is “Act now: you, me, communities.” It invites individuals, families, and local bodies to join forces, boost vaccination coverage, and drive real change that lowers rabies risk in neighborhoods and beyond.
Why vaccination matters
Rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is preventable through timely vaccination. An annual vaccination schedule protects pets and helps curb transmission to humans, especially in areas with stray dog populations. In addition to safeguarding animals, vaccination programs reduce the number of potential exposure cases for people. Vaccinated dogs are often marked with a vegetable dye to denote immunity, a practical field method that helps teams track coverage during large camps without relying on expensive records.
Chennai’s vaccination drives: turning would-be barriers into progress
In Chennai, animal-welfare groups have intensified vaccination campaigns for both owned pets and strays. On World Rabies Day, staff and volunteers from Blue Cross of India plan to revisit Kannagi Nagar for a stray vaccination camp, building on last year’s efforts there. This year’s outreach also targets Avadi, with a two-day camp conducted on September 20 and 21. Meanwhile, the People for Cattle in India (PFCI) has set a goal of administering 100 vaccines on World Rabies Day—60 dogs and 40 cats—from neighborhoods in Ambatur and Avadi. HeavenForAnimals is organizing a large drive in October, launching at a school in Chetpet before a mobile unit moves to various locations.
From planning to impact: notable figures and numbers
Blue Cross of India notes that vaccination counts are rising as partnerships grow. VinodKumaaar Sankara Panicker, the organization’s general manager, stresses that real immunity for strays comes from annual vaccination. Last year, about 5,000 dogs were vaccinated; this year the target is 8,500, supported by the HCL Foundation. Beyond fixed clinics, vaccination teams go into neighborhoods to reach community dogs and encourage owners to bring pets to free camps or local hospitals.
How the process works on the ground
Vaccination drives combine accessibility with practical identification. In addition to veterinary oversight, teams mark vaccinated dogs with a vegetable dye to indicate immunity. Unlike sterilisation, which may involve ear notching, vaccination campaigns often rely on simple, visible marking to prevent duplicate doses and track coverage. However, the economics of vaccines and the need for manpower remain challenges, particularly in peripheral areas with limited awareness about rabies prevention.
What to do if bitten
Dr. Arun Pari, a veterinary consultant, warns that post-exposure management is time-sensitive. If bitten by a stray dog, seek medical care immediately and receive a rabies vaccine along with a multi-antigen shot. The first dose should be administered as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours of exposure—an interval many people unfortunately overlook. Prompt action is crucial to protect both the bite victim and the broader community from rabies.
Getting involved and supporting the effort
World Rabies Day invites everyone to participate—whether by donating vaccines, volunteering at camps, or spreading awareness about the importance of annual vaccination for pets and community dogs. If you live near known stray populations, contributing to free vaccination camps or arranging transport to vaccination sites can make a tangible difference for animals and people alike. Vaccination is not just a medical measure; it’s a community safeguard that saves lives.
