A stray dog suspected to be rabid attacked 15 people across Paprola town and the Uttrala Road area on Saturday, triggering widespread panic among residents. The injured were rushed to Baijnath Civil Hospital for treatment and anti-rabies vaccination, but many alleged that the hospital had run out of the vaccine, forcing them to buy doses from private medical stores at their own expense.
Victims forced to buy vaccines privately
Residents reported that the Baijnath Civil Hospital lacked anti-rabies vaccine stock at the time of the attacks, adding to the inconvenience and financial burden of the victims. Some had to travel to private pharmacies to obtain the life-saving shots. The incident has highlighted gaps in emergency healthcare preparedness in the region.
Authorities launch search for the dog
Baijnath Sub-Divisional Magistrate Sankalp Gautam confirmed that efforts were underway to locate and capture the animal. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have advised residents to report any sightings of the aggressive dog immediately. Former Baijnath Municipal Council Vice-President Mukesh Sharma noted that the dog had not been caught as of late evening, urging people to remain vigilant.
Fears of rabies spread
Residents claimed that the suspected rabid dog had also attacked other stray dogs and livestock, raising concerns about a potential rabies outbreak in the area. They demanded immediate intervention from the Health Department and the Municipal Council to ensure the availability of anti-rabies vaccines at government hospitals and to launch an urgent operation to capture the dog.
Health advisory issued
Health officials advised anyone bitten or scratched by the dog to immediately wash the wounds thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical help without delay. Timely post-exposure treatment is critical in preventing rabies, they emphasized.
Growing stray dog menace
The attack has once again brought attention to the growing stray dog problem in Paprola. Locals have urged authorities to take swift and effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future and to strengthen stray animal management in the region. The administration has assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure public safety.
