Hyderabad, Telangana: Hyderabad is witnessing a sharp rise in dog bite cases, with over 350 incidents reported every single day, creating a major public health concern for the city. Two key government hospitals are bearing the brunt of this surge — Free Hospital in Nallakunta, which receives 200–250 cases daily, and the Institute of Preventive Medicine (IPM) in Narayanaguda, where 100–150 cases are treated each day, according to health officials.
Medical authorities have expressed serious concern as the supply of Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) — a critical treatment for severe dog bite cases — remains limited. This shortage is forcing hospitals to prioritize high-risk cases, while many victims are left scrambling to purchase expensive doses from private pharmacies.
Spike Linked to Growing Stray Dog Population
Health experts and municipal officials attribute the surge to a rapidly growing stray dog population across the city. With monsoon season currently underway, the availability of open garbage dumps and leftover food has further increased the movement and aggression of stray dogs.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has ramped up sterilization and mass vaccination drives in a bid to control the stray dog population and prevent rabies outbreaks. GHMC veterinary teams are now conducting daily capture-and-release operations, focusing on high-risk zones where dog bite cases are repeatedly reported.
According to GHMC officials, ward-level monitoring is being strengthened to identify stray hotspots and improve sterilization coverage. “We are working round-the-clock to curb the menace. The goal is to cover at least 80% of the stray population with sterilization and anti-rabies vaccination within the next few months,” a senior GHMC veterinarian stated.
Public Safety Concerns Rising
Residents across various localities — particularly in Malkajgiri, Secunderabad, Kukatpally, and Old City areas — have reported increased dog attacks, especially targeting children and elderly people. Social media has been flooded with distressing videos and complaints, prompting civic authorities to take urgent action.
Doctors at Nallakunta and IPM hospitals are urging citizens to seek immediate medical attention after any dog bite and not to rely on home remedies.
“The first 24 hours are extremely crucial after a dog bite. Even minor scratches must be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water, followed by timely administration of anti-rabies vaccines. In severe cases, RIG is life-saving,”
said a senior doctor at IPM Hospital.
Government Steps In
The Telangana Health Department has been directed to review the vaccine supply chain and ensure that RIG and anti-rabies vaccines are available in sufficient quantities across government hospitals. Officials are also considering the allocation of special funds to purchase additional doses and support sterilization drives.
Meanwhile, public awareness campaigns are being planned to educate citizens about preventive measures, safe waste disposal, and reporting stray dog activity to GHMC helplines.
With the daily count of dog bite cases crossing alarming levels, health experts warn that unless sustained sterilization and vaccination measures are implemented, Hyderabad could face a full-fledged rabies outbreak, posing a severe risk to public health.