Rabies is set to be declared a notifiable disease in Delhi to improve surveillance, ensure timely reporting and reduce rabies-related deaths. The move aims to strengthen public health response, expand vaccination coverage and support the goal of zero human deaths from rabies in the capital. It follows judicial concern over dog-bite incidents and rabies fatalities.
Why The Notification Matters
Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but it is preventable through prompt medical care. Declaring it notifiable will make reporting mandatory for suspected, probable and confirmed human rabies cases. This will help health authorities detect cases earlier and respond faster.
Mandatory Reporting Framework
Once the notification is issued, all government and private health facilities will have to report rabies cases. This includes:
- Hospitals and health centres.
- Medical colleges.
- Individual practitioners.
The measure is expected to improve disease tracking and coordination between human health and animal health systems.
Vaccination And Preparedness
Delhi currently provides anti-rabies vaccines at 59 health facilities across 11 districts. Anti-rabies serum is available at 33 designated hospitals and health facilities. The government is also finalising a State Action Plan for Rabies Elimination with local bodies, the Animal Husbandry Department and other stakeholders. Vaccination facilities for humans, dogs and other animals are being strengthened.
Public Health And Legal Context
The step comes amid rising concern over stray dog management and rabies deaths. Official data show that Delhi recorded 26,334 dog-bite cases and 26 confirmed rabies cases as of July 2025. Between April and September 2025, 54,623 stray dogs were vaccinated. The notification will remain in force until further notice.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026