Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today emphasized the need for raising public awareness about rabies as a crucial step towards preventing the disease. Addressing a seminar organized by the Directorate of Livestock at the Bangladesh Agriculture Research Council (BARC) in observance of ‘World Rabies Day-25’, Akhter highlighted the importance of preventive measures and the need to educate the public on the disease.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar saw participation from key figures in the field. The adviser urged for mass awareness initiatives, including a mass dog vaccination program, the establishment of shelter and rescue centers, and the promotion of the Animal Welfare Act-2019. She called upon attendees to change societal perceptions about dogs and to treat them with compassion.
The event was chaired by Dr. Md Abu Sufian, the Director General of the Livestock Directorate, with Dr. Md Boyzar Rahman, Director (Admin) of the Directorate, delivering the welcome address. Dr. Md Shahinur Alam presented a keynote speech, which highlighted that rabies affects over 150 countries worldwide, with an estimated annual mortality rate of 59,000. The global financial burden of the disease is approximately 8.6 billion US dollars annually.
Dr. Md Abu Sufian emphasized the importance of maintaining the health of dogs for the well-being of humans and called for accelerated research efforts on rabies. The seminar was graced by special guests including Dr. Md Abu Zafar, Director General (DG) of the Health Directorate, Dr. Sakila Faruk, DG BARC, Dr. Tahmina Shirin, Director of ICDDR’B, and Dr. F H Ansari, President of ACI Agri Business Division.
The discussion also featured contributions from Rubaiya Ahmed, founder of Sanctuary Bangladesh Animal Welfare Society, Architect Rakibul Haque Emil, founder Chairman of ‘People for Animal Welfare Foundation’, and Dr. Md Aziz Al Mamun, Director of Central Veterinary Hospital.
The event commenced with a vibrant procession in the capital, organized by the Livestock Directorate, carrying the slogan, “Work unitedly to eliminate rabies.”