Gangtok: In a sweeping campaign to make Sikkim a rabies-free state, the Sikkim Anti-Rabies and Animal Health (SARAH) organisation, in a spirited partnership with the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) Department, recently concluded an extensive animal welfare programme across several key locations within the Chujachen constituency.
This initiative, a blend of vaccination, deworming, and sterilisation, is a crucial step in the ongoing battle against zoonotic diseases, particularly rabies, which poses a significant public health threat.
The drive was an undeniable success, with teams working tirelessly to inoculate and care for the canine population. A total of 432 dogs received anti-rabies vaccinations and deworming treatments, fortifying them against common parasites and the deadly virus. In a proactive move to control the dog population and prevent future outbreaks, 107 dogs underwent Animal Birth Control (ABC) procedures. The campaign spanned a wide geographical area, reaching into the heart of communities from Chujachen to Lingtam, and covering villages like Nimachen, Phadamchen, and Quekhola.
Rabies, a dreaded disease primarily transmitted through dog bites, has been a major concern, and these proactive measures are a testament to the department’s commitment to tackling it head-on. The campaign underscored the critical role of community involvement and public support in ensuring the success of such initiatives. By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, the programme aims to not only protect animal health but also create a safer environment for human inhabitants. This collaborative effort signals Sikkim’s firm resolve to eliminate rabies through sustained vaccination drives, sterilisation programmes, and continuous public awareness campaigns.
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