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Rabid Dog Bites 45 Near Madurai Temple
19 Jul
Summary
- A rabid dog attacked 45 people near Meenakshi Temple.
- Victims received anti-rabies vaccinations promptly.
- Corporation to intensify vaccination drive over five months.
A startling incident occurred in Madurai on Saturday when a suspected rabid stray dog bit 45 individuals as it moved from Arapalayam towards the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple. This caused considerable panic among both locals and tourists in the busy temple vicinity.
One victim, Gajendran, recounted rescuing a child before being bitten himself, highlighting the increasing stray dog issue and urging the corporation for action. In response to numerous complaints, Madurai Corporation dispatched dog-catching teams. These teams successfully captured the animal and initiated its transfer to a shelter after administering necessary vaccines.
All 45 individuals who were bitten have been given anti-rabies vaccinations at local health centers or the Government Rajaji Hospital. This event occurs amidst a noted increase in aggressive stray dog reports across several Madurai areas. The city recorded approximately 19,000 dog bite and scratch cases in 2025, averaging 15 to 25 incidents daily.
Assistant city health officer Abhishek stated that the corporation will enhance its anti-rabies vaccination efforts over the upcoming five months. A fleet of four dog-catching vehicles will focus on vaccinating around 300 stray dogs each day. Abhishek mentioned that an estimated 40,000 stray dogs reside within the corporation's limits, with 22,000 already vaccinated against rabies. These drives will operate six days a week, supported by a current stock of 4,000 vaccine doses.
