Tura, July 7: An enthusiastic response from pet owners marked the free anti-rabies vaccination drive organised by the State Veterinary Hospital in Brahminpara, Tura, from July 5 to 7 to observe World Zoonosis Day. Over 50 pets, including dogs and cats, were vaccinated during the three-day camp, underscoring growing community awareness about the importance of disease prevention.
Zoonotic diseases—those transmitted from animals to humans—can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites and are often spread through direct contact with infected animals or vectors like ticks and mosquitoes. Rabies, bird flu, and leptospirosis are among the better-known examples.
Speaking to Hub News, Dr. Ripamchi N. Marak, Veterinary Officer, stressed the importance of immediate action following animal bites. “The first step should always be to clean the wound thoroughly, followed by completing the full course of anti-rabies vaccination. Even a partially vaccinated person can be at risk, as saliva from infected animals contains dangerous pathogens,” she said.
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system in mammals and is typically spread through the bite of an infected animal. Once symptoms appear, it is almost always fatal—making vaccination the most effective form of prevention.
World Zoonosis Day, observed annually on July 7, commemorates Louis Pasteur’s successful administration of the first rabies vaccine to a human in 1885. The day aims to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases and promote collaboration between veterinary and public health sectors.
The successful turnout for the vaccination drive in Tura highlighted not only the community’s commitment to pet care but also the vital role such initiatives play in safeguarding public health.
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