Nangbah LP School hosts rabies awareness program to combat infection

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaSeptember 27, 2024

As part of World Rabies Week 2024, an awareness program on rabies was held at Nangbah LP School, Nangbah Village, West Jaintia Hills on September 27, under the theme “Breaking Rabies Boundaries.”

The event was organized by the Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of Meghalaya, in collaboration with the District Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Department and the Local Headman. Attendees included the District Medical & Health Officer (DMHO), District Surveillance Officer (DSO), Medical & Health Officer in charge of Nangbah, Veterinary Officer, school children, Self-Help Groups, residents of Nangbah Iawmusiang, and other stakeholders.

Welcoming the participants, Dr. D. Hinge, Medical Officer in charge of Nangbah PHC, highlighted the importance of the awareness program in educating the public about the dangers of rabies and the need to break the chain of infection through vaccination.

Dr. M Syngkon, District Surveillance Officer, provided an overview of rabies infection, its transmission, and its symptoms. She emphasized the life-saving benefits of anti-rabies vaccines, which are available free of cost, and urged the public to seek immediate vaccination in case of dog or animal bites.

Dr. E Chen, A.H. & Veterinary Officer, West Jaintia Hills, stressed the importance of vaccinating animals, particularly pets, to combat rabies. She explained the signs and symptoms of rabies in animals, especially dogs, and encouraged residents to bring their pets for free vaccinations at the Veterinary Dispensary on September 28, 2024.

The DMHO, Dr. K Dhar, expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort between the departments and the cooperation of the residents and the Dorbar Shnong. He encouraged continued joint efforts to eliminate rabies and address other public health challenges.

The village headman thanked the district officials for organizing the event and urged the residents of Nangbah to support the Health and Veterinary Departments in their efforts.