Home / Health / Thane Dog Bites: 67,000+ Rabies Vaccines Administered
Thane Dog Bites: 67,000+ Rabies Vaccines Administered
13 Feb
Summary
- Over 67,000 rabies vaccine doses administered in Thane district.
- Three locals died of rabies in the last four months.
- Residents report strays in housing society lifts and gyms.
Recent events in Thane district have underscored a growing crisis involving stray dogs and rabies. Between January 2025 and January 2026, government hospitals in the district administered over 67,000 doses of the anti-rabies vaccine. This indicates at least 22,000 individuals were treated for dog bites or scratches, with figures likely higher when municipal and private facilities are included.
Alarmingly, three residents have died from rabies in the last four months in Ambarnath, Diva, and Bhiwandi, despite receiving vaccinations. This has prompted urgent directives from Thane's guardian minister during a District Planning Committee meeting. Residents of a Thane housing society have even approached the police due to stray dogs occupying common areas like lifts and gyms, feeding on the premises, and posing a significant risk to vulnerable populations.
The highest numbers of vaccine doses were administered in Ulhasnagar Camp No 3, Bhiwandi, Ulhasnagar Camp No 4, and Ambarnath, alongside other affected areas like Thane city and the Kalyan-Dombivli belt. Health officials urge immediate vaccination after any dog bite or scratch and caution against unqualified practitioners. Factors like patient immunity and bite location can influence treatment outcomes.
