Mumbai: Dog bites up by 28 per cent in one year, reveals BMC data

Recently, a 37-year-old resident of Kandivli lost his life to rabies, highlighting the escalating issue of dog-related incidents in Mumbai. As per BMC data, this is the first rabies-related death since 2018. Additionally, dog bite cases have surged by 28 per cent in 2022. In the previous year, on average, nine people were victims of dog bites every hour. However, between January and April 2023, the alarming average surged to 10 people being bitten by dogs every hour.

While dogs are known to be loyal pets, street canines seem to be targeting people more frequently, surpassing pre-COVID levels of incidents. According to BMC Health Department data, the city reported 74,279 dog bite cases in 2019. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, the cases decreased to 53,020.

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However, in 2021, the number rose to 61,332, and in the year 2022 the number of dog bite cases rose to 78,756. This represents a 24 per cent increase in dog bite incidents in 2022 compared to 2021 and surpasses the figures from 2019.

While dogs are known to be loyal pets, street canines seem to be targeting people more frequently, surpassing pre-Covid levels of incidents

Furthermore, in 2023, a dog-related fatality occurred after a span of five years, with a 37-year-old male losing his life due to rabies at the civic-run Kasturba Hospital. Dr Chandrakant Pawar, the Superintendent of Kasturba Hospital, stated, "The patient, a resident of Kandivli Charkop, was referred from Nanavati Hospital to Kasturba on April 20, but unfortunately, he could not survive and passed away on April 22. He had a history of dog bite approximately two to three months ago, and his vaccination status is unclear."

Speaking on condition of anonymity, senior officials from the civic health department explained, "During the lockdown, movement was restricted, resulting in fewer reported dog bite cases compared to the previous year. The current figures reflect those reported at BMC hospitals, but there are many victims who seek vaccination at private hospitals, which often go unaccounted for." Over the past 5.4 years, the city has reported 382,435 dog bite cases.

In April, a dog-related fatality occurred after a span of five years in Mumbai. Representation pic

Executive Health Officer Dr Mangala Gomare stated, "The number of dog bite cases has risen, and we have also seen instances of fatalities. It is important for people to avoid provoking dogs, and if bitten, they should immediately seek medical assistance at civic dispensaries where anti-rabies vaccines are available. The doctor will assess the severity of the injury and determine the appropriate vaccine dosage. It is crucial not to overlook or disregard the need for vaccination."

While speaking to mid-day, Dr. Kaleem Pathan, general manager in charge of Deonar abattoir, said, "Currently, we have six NGOs conducting sterilisation and vaccination procedures. However, we require additional organisations to participate in these efforts. We plan to increase our resources, which will help in reducing the dog population."