Barguna, Mar 27 (V7N) – A series of aggressive mad dog attacks in Patharghata, Barguna, has resulted in injuries to approximately eight people, including madrasa students and pedestrians, highlighting a critical and potentially life-threatening shortage of rabies vaccines at the local Upazila Health Complex.

"Around 8 people, including madrasa students and pedestrians, were injured in a single day in Patharghata, Barguna after being bitten by a mad dog," a local health official confirmed, adding that "the attacks have created a climate of fear in the community."

The attacks occurred in various areas within Patharghata Municipality on Wednesday evening, March 26, causing widespread panic and concern among residents, particularly parents with young children.

"Relatives of the injured said that panic has spread after mad dogs bit people, including madrasa students and children, one after another in various parts of Patharghata municipality on Wednesday (March 26) evening," a community spokesperson reported, noting that "residents are now afraid to leave their homes after dark."

According to the Upazila Health Complex, seven individuals sought immediate treatment for dog bites on Wednesday evening. An additional person received treatment outside the facility, likely due to the unavailability of vaccines at the local clinic.

"According to the Upazila Health Complex, 7 people were injured in stray dog ​​bites on Wednesday evening. Many of them have been injured and have come to the hospital for treatment. The victims of dog bites have been given first aid. In addition, 1 person has received treatment outside the Upazila Health Complex," a hospital representative stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

A significant concern is the complete lack of rabies vaccines at the Upazila Health Complex, forcing victims to purchase the costly medication from private pharmacies, often at exorbitant prices.

"Meanwhile, there is no vaccine to prevent rabies in the health complex. The common people are in trouble due to the lack of supply of any vaccine to prevent rabies. They are forced to buy the vaccine from drug stores at high prices," a health complex staff member confirmed, adding that "this is a recurring issue that needs immediate government intervention."

Mannan, a father whose madrasa student son was bitten, expressed the financial burden of purchasing the vaccine and the added stress during the Ramadan period.

"Mannan, an injured madrasa student, said, 'My son was bitten by a mad dog while leaving the mosque after Iftar prayers. He was rushed to the hospital. There, the doctor prescribed a vaccine to be purchased from the pharmacy. Each vaccine costs over 1000 taka. The doctor said to give the vaccine. It is difficult for ordinary people like us to spend so much,'" Mannan reported, stating that "this is an unfair burden during a time of increased financial strain."

Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr. Mahabub Hossain acknowledged the vaccine shortage and the resulting hardship for patients, emphasizing the need for immediate supply.

"Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr. Mahabub Hossain said, 'Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent rabies in the Upazila Health Complex, and it was not available even after searching in the municipality and upazila. Later, in the interest of the patient, they were forced to buy it from outside and get vaccinated,'" Dr. Hossain explained, appealing to higher authorities for a swift resolution.

The incident underscores the urgent need for adequate vaccine supplies and effective animal control measures to address public health emergencies and prevent future incidents in the region.

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