KARACHI, September 24, 2026: An awareness session on dog-bite prevention, rabies protection and responsible waste management was held at Little Roots School in Darul Salam Society, Korangi, as part of efforts to promote rabies prevention and protect communities from potentially fatal infections.
Around 150 students participated in the session, which focused on practical measures to prevent dog bites, respond promptly after exposure and dispel common misconceptions about rabies.
The initiative was organised by Shamsa Jabeen Jawed Ahmed, Convener of the FPCCI Central Standing Committee on Women Education & Training, and social activist Fatima Aziz under the flagship of Indus Hospital, with support from the Sindh Government and FPCCI. Young doctors from United Medical Foundation (UMF) and Alkhair Welfare Trust also supported the programme.
The session followed a One Health approach, highlighting the connection between human health, responsible waste management and a safe environment for communities.
M. Aftab Gohar, Rabies Expert, WHO-Certified Trainer and Manager of the Infectious Diseases Department at Indus Hospital & Health Network, provided technical guidance. Sheraz Ahmed, Project Manager of the Sindh Coalition Against Rabies (SCAR), and school principal Ms. Saira also facilitated the session and engaged students on rabies prevention.
Students Learn About Dog Bite Prevention
Speakers discussed the rabies situation in Sindh and Pakistan, including the reported burden of dog-bite incidents and rabies-related deaths. According to figures cited during the session, more than 285,000 dog-bite cases were reported in Sindh during 2025, while more than 85,000 cases were recorded during the first quarter of 2026.
The session also highlighted the global burden of rabies. The World Health Organization estimates that rabies causes around 59,000 deaths worldwide each year, with dogs responsible for the vast majority of human rabies infections.
Students were advised to avoid unnecessary contact with stray dogs, practise safe behaviour around animals, keep their surroundings clean and dispose of waste responsibly to help reduce conditions that can contribute to stray-dog populations.
Immediate Action After a Dog Bite
The importance of taking immediate action after a dog bite or suspected exposure was emphasised. Students were advised to wash wounds thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention promptly.
Speakers also stressed the importance of timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which can prevent rabies when administered appropriately after exposure.
Organisers said awareness, responsible community practices and timely medical intervention are essential to preventing rabies and supporting efforts toward a rabies-free Pakistan.