Bihar's Canine Problem: 600 Dog Bite Cases Reported Daily, 200% Jump!

Bihar has recently witnessed an alarming surge in dog bite cases, with data from the state's latest economic survey revealing a staggering increase of more than 200 times compared to the previous year. The Bihar Economic Survey (2023每24), released by the state government, has identified dog bites as the most prevalent health issue, raising concerns about public safety and potential health risks.

Stark Increase in Cases

According to the report, the total number of people suffering from dog bites in the year 2022每23 reached a staggering 2,07,181, in stark contrast to the 9,809 cases reported in the preceding year (2021每22). This surge highlights an average of 600 people falling victim to dog bites every day in Bihar. The report also provides a district-wise breakdown of the incidents, with the state capital, Patna, reporting the highest number of dog bite incidents at 22,599 in the years 2022每23. Other districts significantly affected include Nalanda (17,074), Gopalganj (15,253), Vaishali (13,110), West Champaran (11,291), and East Champaran (9,975).

Concerns About Rabies and Public Safety

Dog bite | Photo: Unsplash/Representational Image

Despite the concerning rise in dog bite cases, the report did not specify the number of rabies cases typically transmitted by bites from infected animals, including dogs. Rabies is a potentially fatal disease, and the lack of information on its prevalence raises concerns about public safety. Authorities in Bihar are taking steps to address the issue. Animesh Kumar Parashar, Patna Municipal Commissioner, acknowledged the problem and expressed plans to intensify efforts to control the stray dog population. Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Anand of Nalanda, the district with the second-highest number of incidents, also emphasized ongoing drives against stray dogs.

Calls for Effective Measures

Dog bite | Photo: Unsplash/Representational Image

Medical practitioners and animal welfare advocates have expressed concern over the rise in dog bite incidents and emphasized the need for comprehensive measures. Dr. Manoj Kumar from Patna urged authorities to address the issue seriously, highlighting the potential transmission of rabies through bites and scratches.

Alokparna Sengupta, Managing Director for Humane Society International/India, emphasized the importance of controlling human-animal conflict to curb dog bite incidents. She also stressed the effective implementation of the Animal Birth Control Program, which aims to manage stray dog populations humanely.

With inputs from PTI