The numbers tell a troubling story in Tamil Nadu this year. In just four months of 2026, the State has recorded 2.63 lakh dog bite cases and 17 deaths from rabies, a substantial share of last year’s 6.25 lakh bites and half of last year’s 34 deaths.

Data from the Directorate of Public Health (DPH) and Preventive Medicine shows 62,000 dog bite cases, each in January and February, rising to 71,000 in March and dipping slightly to 68,000 in April.

Growing concern

Dog bites continue to be a growing concern across the State, with Chennai, Salem, Tiruchi, and Dindigul among the districts reporting higher numbers. There have been repeated calls for sustained measures to control the stray dog population, strengthen Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme, and improve rabies vaccination coverage among dogs.

A. Somasundaram, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine said cases have marginally increased in the State. “There is no specific treatment or medication for rabies, and it is 100% fatal. This is a challenge. The only tool to prevent rabies is vaccination,” he said.

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Awareness on anti-rabies vaccination is better and compliance has improved, he added. “The Health Department focuses on proper wound washing, administration of Anti-Rabies Vaccine, and rabies immunoglobulin based on the categorisation of bites. Wound washing plays a crucial role. The virus is bullet-shaped and travels along nerve pathways. Immediate and thorough washing of the wound is the first step in reducing the risk of infection. In cases of deep wounds, rabies immunoglobulin is administered. It is also given for bites on high-risk areas such as the hands and face as the virus can quickly travel to the brain,” he explained.

With the stray dog population on the rise, experts say animal birth control (ABC) measures and vaccination of dogs against rabies continue to be challenging. “Veterinarians, with the help of the local bodies, need to vaccinate dogs, while ABC measures should be undertaken by the local bodies,” an official said.

Defaulter tracing

On its part, the DPH is intensifying defaulter tracing. “We are tracking people who take the first dose of the vaccine to ensure that they complete the course. There also needs to be greater awareness on safeguarding children and not leaving them unattended outdoors. Many believe nothing will happen if pet dogs bite but it is important to understand that anti-rabies vaccination is required,” Dr. Somasundaram said.

S. Chandrasekar, professor and head, Department of Medicine, Government Stanley Medical College Hospital, also stressed the need to protect children, who are more vulnerable. “No animal bite should be ignored. Prevention is key. It is important to go to the nearest health facility and get vaccinated. In Category III bites (transdermal bites or scratches, licks on broken skin), rabies immunoglobulin should be administered,” he said.