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Kerala has recently witnessed a tragic case where a young boy died of rabies even after receiving the anti-rabies vaccine. This incident has sparked fear and confusion among the public, especially since the child had followed the vaccination schedule after being bitten by a dog. The death has led to questions about the effectiveness of vaccines and the quality of treatment provided at healthcare facilities.

According to experts, rabies deaths in Kerala are increasingly affecting children. Doctors point out that children are more vulnerable due to their smaller body size and the fact that dog bites often occur on their faces or upper bodies, making the virus spread faster. In many cases, children fail to report minor bites or scratches, which can lead to delayed treatment and serious consequences.

Health professionals stress the importance of proper wound cleaning and completing the full course of vaccination. They also highlight the need for Rabies Immunoglobulin (RIG) in serious cases, especially when the bite is deep or near the head. However, many government hospitals reportedly do not have enough stock of RIG, which is critical in preventing the virus from entering the nervous system.

Doctors recommend increased awareness among parents and children about the dangers of rabies and the immediate steps to take after a bite. They also call for better training for healthcare workers and improved vaccine storage and supply. With Kerala reporting around 40 rabies deaths in the last five years, urgent action is needed to prevent such tragic losses in the future.