Bangladesh is facing successive public health crises, starting with a measles outbreak that has resulted in 488 deaths since March 15. The mishandling of an immunization program by the interim government has been blamed for the crisis. Another concerning health issue that has been rapidly escalating is rabies.
Cases of rabies and animal bites have been increasing over the past few months. The Infectious Diseases Hospital reported 25 human deaths from rabies by mid-May this year, compared to annual death numbers of 42 in 2023, 58 in 2024, and 59 in 2025. The actual death toll may be higher. The rise in rabies cases is alarming, especially considering Bangladesh’s goal to eradicate rabies by 2030.
The root of this crisis can be traced back to the government’s actions. The suspension of the country’s operational plan disrupted vaccine procurement under the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), leading to shortages starting with measles vaccines. This disruption also impacted the supply and distribution of rabies vaccines. Free rabies vaccines under EPI have been disrupted for a year, causing shortages across districts. To address the crisis, approximately nine lakh doses of rabies vaccines are currently being procured, according to sources at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).
While the procurement of nine lakh vaccine doses is a positive step, it falls short considering the unknown number of dogs in the country. In Dhaka city alone, there are conflicting estimates of the dog population, with figures ranging from 73,000 to 76,000. The lack of a reliable estimate of the street dog population hampers effective action. Establishing a centralized, technology-based dog population and vaccination database, similar to the approach taken in Goa, India, could enhance rabies control efforts in Bangladesh.
Rabies is primarily spread by dogs in Bangladesh, contributing to most cases in the country. However, not all animal bites result in rabies, and rabid dogs may not exhibit immediate aggression. Education and awareness campaigns can help bridge the information gap and reduce public fear. Implementing a public education program similar to the one in Goa, where children are taught to coexist safely with dogs, could be beneficial in Bangladesh.
It is crucial to avoid fear-driven responses to the rabies crisis, as fear often leads to aggressive actions towards animals, exacerbating the issue. Proper actions, accountability, and a scientific approach rooted in compassion are essential to combatting rabies effectively. Ensuring a high percentage of dogs are vaccinated and receiving booster shots is critical, along with establishing a central database to monitor vaccination progress and hold authorities accountable.
Media coverage also plays a role in shaping public perception of the issue. Focusing on sensationalized narratives instead of addressing structural failures may hinder progress in controlling rabies. Changing the narrative to emphasize cooperation and understanding between humans and dogs is key to overcoming the crisis.
The ongoing rabies crisis is not a battle between humans and dogs, but a shared fight against a preventable disease. Approaching the issue with evidence-based compassion and a willingness to coexist with dogs is not only scientifically sound but also honors the enduring history between humans and canines.
