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A balanced scientific approach that focuses on scientific vaccination programmes, responsible animal care and community participation can help reduce rabies risks while creating safer neighbourhoods, informs Priya Kailad, founder and president of Karma Foundation. She emphasizes that stray animal vaccination and community awareness need greater focus as part of public health planning in Indian cities.
She further adds, “For a long time, stray animal management has often focused on removal-based solutions whenever conflicts arise. However, removing animals from an area does not address the root cause of the issue. Once a space becomes available, new animals often enter the area in search of food and shelter, and if they are not vaccinated, the risk of disease transmission continues.”
Medical experts also recommend that vaccination should be viewed beyond animal welfare and recognised as a crucial public health measure. A healthy and vaccinated street dog population can significantly reduce the possibility of rabies transmission and help communities become safer.
Kailad further stresses that mass vaccination programmes are one of the most effective ways to control rabies. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vaccinating at least 70% of the dog population to interrupt rabies transmission and reduce the risk of human infections. “Scientific vaccination strategies, along with regular monitoring and awareness initiatives, can create a long-term solution for rabies prevention,” she says.
She also highlights the importance of regular vaccination drives and systematic monitoring to ensure that stray animal populations remain protected against rabies. According to her, isolated vaccination efforts may not create a long-term impact unless they are supported by continuous programmes, proper record-keeping and collaboration between local authorities, animal welfare groups and communities. A consistent approach can help identify vulnerable areas, improve vaccination coverage and strengthen overall rabies prevention efforts in cities.
Kailad further explains that vaccination alone cannot solve the challenge unless communities are also educated about responsible interactions with animals. Many conflicts between people and street dogs occur due to misunderstanding of animal behaviour, fear-based reactions and improper waste management practices.
“Community awareness plays an equally important role in preventing incidents. People need to understand basic animal behaviour, recognise situations where animals may feel threatened and follow responsible practices while interacting with stray animals,” she adds.
Public health authorities also stress on the importance of timely medical action after animal bites or scratches. They recommend immediate washing of the affected area with soap and clean water, followed by medical consultation, as early action can help prevent serious consequences.
Kailad believes, “Creating safer cities is not about removing animals from shared spaces but about developing responsible systems for managing them. Collaboration between government authorities, veterinary professionals, animal welfare organisations and local communities is necessary to build a sustainable approach.”
“By combining scientific vaccination programmes with awareness and responsible animal care, cities can move towards reducing rabies risks and creating healthier environments for both people and animals,” Kailad concludes.
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