Chattogram: City Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain has announced an initiative to make Chattogram city rabies-free by vaccinating 15,000 stray dogs. Emphasizing that rabies in dogs is a completely preventable disease, the mayor highlighted the importance of this vaccination campaign in controlling the spread of rabies.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the mayor stressed the need for regular vaccination of pet dogs and cats to ensure their protection as well. He urged city residents to cooperate conscientiously with the ongoing programme, which was officially launched in front of the city’s Divisional Commissioner’s office.
Dr. Hossain pointed out that public health is a priority in creating a safe urban environment. He addressed concerns about the increasing stray dog population, incidents of dog bites, and the threat of rabies. To tackle these issues humanely and scientifically, the city has opted for a vaccination programme instead of culling dogs.
The mayor explained that rabies is a viral disease transmitted primarily through the bite or scratch of an infected dog, but not all dog bites result in rabies. Symptoms of a rabid dog include excessive salivation, aimless running, a tendency to bite everything, and difficulty walking. He advised the public to avoid dogs showing these symptoms and to contact the City Corporation Health Department or the nearest hospital promptly.
The inauguration was attended by key officials, including Acting Chief Executive Officer and Secretary of the City Corporation Md. Ashraful Amin, Chief Health Officer Mohammad Imam Hossain Rana, Deputy Secretary Rasheda Akhter, Regional Executive Officer Jobaida Akhter, and leaders from the Chattogram District Bar Association.