Rabies Patient in Palanpur Shows Signs of Recovery After Severe Outbreak
In a significant medical development, a 27-year-old man from Sabarkantha district, who was admitted to the Civil Hospital in Palanpur with severe rabies symptoms, is now reported to be in stable condition. The patient, a father of three from Gora village who works as a farm laborer in Nalasar, had been exhibiting extreme neurological manifestations of the disease, including walking on all fours, barking aggressively, and displaying hydrophobia or fear of water.
Timeline of the Rabies Infection and Hospitalization
The man was initially bitten by a rabid dog approximately three months ago but did not receive the Anti Rabies Vaccine (ARV) at that time. His condition deteriorated rapidly a few days ago when he began showing alarming symptoms. On January 30, he was taken to the Trauma Centre at Banas Medical College and Research Institute in Palanpur after the symptoms intensified, leading to aggressive behavior that included attacking family members.
Videos purportedly showing the man displaying these symptoms surfaced online, drawing widespread attention. Upon admission, the hospital authorities faced challenges as the patient broke free from an isolated ward, causing chaos and necessitating intervention from multiple agencies.
Medical Response and Current Status
Dr. Sunil Joshi, the Medical Superintendent at Banas Medical College and Research Institute, provided an update on Sunday, stating that the patient is now cooperating with medical staff and is stable. He is no longer under sedation, is taking food orally, and is following verbal commands, marking a positive turn in his treatment. The rabies case remains under close observation by healthcare professionals.
To prevent further spread, authorities have administered the Anti Rabies Vaccine to 15 individuals, including family members and other villagers who came into contact with the infected man. This proactive measure aims to curb any potential outbreak in the community.
Broader Context and Safety Measures
Dr. Joshi highlighted that this incident represents the fourth rabies case reported from Banaskantha district in the past year. He cited a recent example from Palanpur where a father and son were affected by a stray dog; while the father took the ARV, the son did not and later became infected. This underscores the critical importance of timely vaccination.
During the initial stages of hospitalization, the situation required coordinated efforts from various departments. The hospital informed the District Collector, Superintendent of Police, and the forest department to ensure safety. Forest department staff utilized specialised nets to safely restrain the patient for treatment, emphasizing the multidisciplinary approach taken to manage such severe cases.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of rabies and the necessity of immediate medical intervention following animal bites. Public health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, advocating for awareness and preventive measures in rural and urban areas alike.
