Dibrugarh logs 102 dog-bite cases in a week, civic body launches vaccination drive

Dibrugarh in Assam has recorded a sharp rise in dog-bite cases, with 102 people seeking treatment at the Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) over the past seven days. The surge has heightened concerns among residents about the stray dog population and the risk of rabies.

AMCH Superintendent Dr Dhrubajyoti Bhuyan said on Wednesday that the hospital received 35 dog-bite cases in a single day, including 30 from the Thana Chariali area and five from other parts of the city. Officials noted that the actual number of cases could be higher, as some victims are treated at private hospitals and clinics.

In response, Dibrugarh Mayor Dr Saikat Patra announced a fresh anti-rabies vaccination drive for stray dogs, starting at 4 pm on Wednesday. The drive will cover various neighbourhoods across the city. Patra urged residents, especially children, to stay cautious around stray dogs and advised anyone bitten to seek immediate medical attention.

Since August 14, 2025, the Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation, the State Veterinary Dispensary, and the NGO Animal Welfare People have vaccinated more than 300 stray dogs in different parts of the city. Officials stressed that sustained vaccination and public awareness are essential, as rabies is fatal but preventable with timely post-exposure treatment.