Pakistan does not have a formal rabies surveillance system, contributing to an estimated 5,000 deaths each year, according to a briefing presented to Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal. Health officials are now moving toward a national strategy aimed at preventing and controlling the disease.
The issue was discussed during a meeting between the federal health minister and a delegation from The Indus Hospital & Health Network, where participants reviewed the country’s current rabies burden and the need for coordinated national action.
Health Officials Highlight Rabies Burden
During the briefing, the delegation said Pakistan lacks an effective nationwide system to monitor rabies cases, making it difficult to accurately track the disease and strengthen prevention efforts.
Officials also noted that millions of dog-bite incidents are reported annually, with children, people living in rural areas, and residents of underserved urban communities among the most affected.
Government Approves National Framework
Mustafa Kamal expressed concern over the growing impact of rabies and gave in-principle approval for the development of a National Rabies Prevention and Control Framework.
He said a National Technical Working Advisory Group will be established to lead the preparation of the framework and coordinate national efforts to combat the disease.
Nationwide Awareness Campaign Planned
The health minister also announced plans to launch a nationwide public awareness campaign to educate people about rabies prevention and the importance of timely treatment following animal bites.
He praised the anti-rabies campaign launched across Sindh under the leadership of the province’s chief minister and acknowledged the technical support provided by The Indus Hospital & Health Network in strengthening rabies prevention efforts.
Mustafa Kamal said the federal government, provincial authorities, and technical partners remain committed to eliminating preventable rabies deaths in Pakistan through coordinated action.
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