Over 40 people injured in stray dog attacks in Assam’s Cachar, vaccine shortage alleged

More than 40 people, including children, men and women, were reportedly injured in a series of dog attacks across the greater Kalain area of Assam’s Cachar district during the Durga Puja festivities, triggering panic among residents. The alleged shortage of anti-rabies vaccines at hospitals in Kalain and Katigorah has added to the concerns, with affected people reportedly being referred to Silchar for treatment.

According to local reports, the dog, suspected to be rabid, attacked people at several locations, beginning in Padritilla before moving through Kalain Market and the premises of a local hospital. The animal subsequently reached Karchowra and Gumra before it was reportedly killed in the Sadir Khal market area.

The incident has raised concerns among residents over the availability of essential medical facilities at nearby government hospitals, particularly following the large number of reported bite cases.

Residents have alleged that anti-rabies vaccines were unavailable at the hospitals in Kalain and Katigorah, forcing people bitten by the dog to travel to Silchar for treatment. The alleged shortage has caused inconvenience to patients and their families, who have questioned the preparedness of local health facilities to respond to such emergencies.

Local residents have sought the intervention of the health department, demanding an immediate supply of adequate anti-rabies vaccine stocks at both hospitals. They have also called for prompt medical attention for all those injured in the attacks.

With more than 40 people reportedly affected, residents have urged the authorities to ensure that the injured receive timely treatment and that essential medicines remain available at local health facilities to prevent further hardship.