 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Jan 21: On January 21, 2025, the State Surveillance Unit under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), Directorate of Health Services (DHS) Jammu, organized a successful Community Awareness Program on Rabies Prevention in Village Arnia, Block Bishnah, District Jammu. The event, held in collaboration with the Information Department and supported by the National Health Mission (NHM), featured a Nukkad Natak to raise awareness about rabies prevention under the National Rabies Control Program (NRCP).
The initiative was led by Dr. Rakesh Magotra, Director of Health Services Jammu, and supervised by Dr. Harjeet Rai, State Surveillance Officer/State Nodal Officer NRCP. It also received strong support from Dr. Harbaksh Singh, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Jammu, and Dr. Ghanshyam, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Bishnah.
The Nukkad Natak, performed by talented artists from the Information Department, focused on educating the community about crucial aspects of rabies prevention. Key messages included the importance of immediately washing animal bite wounds with soap and water, timely administration of the Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV) and Anti-Rabies Serum (ARS), and responsible pet ownership, including regular vaccination of pet dogs.
The Natak also addressed common myths related to rabies prevention and emphasized essential Dos and Don'ts, such as seeking prompt medical attention after a bite, not relying on unverified traditional remedies, and ensuring pet vaccinations. The event further highlighted the free availability of ARV and ARS at government health facilities, ensuring that life-saving treatments are accessible to all. The program saw enthusiastic participation from local community members, school children, local chemists, health staff, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs). Their involvement contributed to the success of the awareness drive, fostering a greater understanding of rabies prevention at the grassroots level.
The event was met with positive feedback from attendees, who appreciated the informative and engaging approach of the Nukkad Natak. This initiative marks a significant step in building community awareness and supporting the National Goal of eliminating dog-mediated rabies by 2030. |
