March 10, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities have issued a warning regarding the heightened risk of rabies transmission attributed to the absence of a comprehensive programme for managing the population of free-roaming dogs nationwide.
Recent statistics released by health authorities reveal a concerning figure of over six million stray dogs roaming freely across the country.
The sterilisation programme aimed at addressing this issue has encountered significant obstacles, exacerbating the problem.
The sight of a considerable number of stray dogs roaming freely, particularly in urban areas like Colombo and public spaces, underscores the severity of the issue, which health authorities classify as a pressing health and social concern.
Despite past efforts to curb rabies and regulate the dog population through various programs, the inadequate execution of these initiatives has contributed to the current predicament.
Tragically, sixteen fatalities were reported last year resulting from stray dog bites.
Health authorities caution that without the implementation of a scientifically-driven program to address this issue effectively, the number of fatalities may escalate.
