KARACHI: The city has seen a sharp rise in dog bite cases, with more than 10,000 reported in January and February 2025, a significant increase compared to the same period last year, according to hospital data.
Dr. Romana Farhat, in charge of the rabies clinic at Civil Hospital Karachi, stated that 5,795 cases were recorded at the facility in the first two months of 2025, up from 3,269 cases during the same period in 2024. She added that more than 100 cases are being reported daily.
In addition to dog bites, Dr. Farhat noted that 13 cases of cat bites were reported in February at Civil Hospital.
At Jinnah Hospital, Dr. Irfan Siddiqui, the Emergency In-Charge, shared that the hospital has seen over 5,000 dog bite cases this year, compared to more than 3,000 during the same period last year.
Medical experts emphasize the need for immediate first aid following a dog bite. They advise washing the affected area with detergent soap for at least 15 minutes to reduce the risk of infection. It is also crucial for individuals to complete the full course of anti-rabies vaccines and preventive injections to avoid serious health complications.
Experts also caution that rabies can be transmitted through the bites of not only dogs but also cats, donkeys, and monkeys. They urge people to seek immediate medical attention and administer the anti-rabies vaccine if bitten by these animals as well.
