KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has initiated a province-wide Rabies Prevention Campaign to address the rising concern of rabies-related deaths. The campaign aims to implement a strategic approach encompassing vaccination, treatment, public awareness, and management of the stray dog population.

According to Chief Minister Sindh, the initiative was announced during a meeting at the CM House, attended by key government officials, including Health Minister Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho and local government representatives. The campaign is a response to alarming statistics, with over 285,000 dog-bite cases reported in 2025 and more than 22 rabies-related fatalities in major hospitals. In early 2026 alone, 85,891 cases have already been documented.

Chief Minister Shah emphasized the importance of strengthening preventive and treatment mechanisms, ensuring the availability of anti-rabies vaccines and immunoglobulin across healthcare facilities in Sindh. The multi-dimensional strategy involves coordination between healthcare, local government institutions, and community organizations.

The Sindh Rabies Control Programme, launched in 2022, has seen significant progress with neutering, spaying, and vaccination campaigns for stray dogs in 20 districts. Over 25,500 dogs have been neutered or spayed, and more than 36,900 vaccinated. Additional Rabies Control Programme Centres are set to open in several districts, enhancing the province’s capacity to manage the issue effectively.

The establishment of 278 WHO-standard Rabies Prevention Units and 112 referral centres marks a significant step forward, ensuring round-the-clock availability of vaccines and treatment. The campaign also includes extensive training for medical professionals and a seven-day awareness initiative to educate the public on prevention and timely treatment following dog bites.

Chief Minister Shah highlighted the role of public awareness as a critical defense against rabies and instructed the Information Department to intensify outreach efforts in multiple languages. The development of a digital ARV Patient Tracking System is set to enhance monitoring and response times for dog-bite cases across the province.