Rabid Dog Bites 5, Dies During Capture Amid Outbreak Fears

A dog bite incident on DP Road near Mhatre Bridge in Pune has prompted fears of a potential rabies outbreak. Civic authorities captured a dog that allegedly bit five people on Tuesday. The victims sought treatment and alerted the authorities, leading to the dog's capture near Mahalaxmi Lawns.

Tragically, the suspected animal died during transportation, complicating efforts to confirm if it was rabid. Pune Municipal Corporation's veterinary department noted that crucial samples were not collected before the animal was incinerated. This failure to follow protocol has amplified concerns among medical professionals.

The incident escalated when multiple bite victims arrived at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, prompting hospital staff to alert the police. Subsequent investigations revealed the dog had bitten a total of five people. Medical experts emphasize the critical importance of immediate anti-rabies vaccination and prompt wound care to prevent the fatal disease.

This event occurs against a backdrop of rising dog bite incidents in Pune. Civic records show a significant increase, with numbers climbing from 16,569 in 2022 to 31,649 in 2025, highlighting an ongoing public health challenge.