Srinagar, Oct 3: Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), Sempora, on Saturday observed World Rabies Day with an awareness and academic programme organised by its Department of Community Medicine, highlighting the importance of timely prevention, vaccination and treatment of rabies.
The programme was held under the supervision and guidance of Managing Director KMCH, Tausif Ahmad, and Executive Director, Insha Qazi. Principal, KMC, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan, Medical Superintendent Dr Syed Mubashir, heads of various departments, faculty members, doctors and other healthcare professionals attended the event.
Principal Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan emphasised that rabies is a preventable but fatal disease, stressing the need for greater public awareness, responsible animal management and prompt medical care following animal bites.
Prof. Dr Shahnaz Nabi, Head of the Department of Community Medicine, highlighted the importance of the One Health approach, involving the healthcare, veterinary and community sectors, to achieve rabies elimination.
Dr Sheikh Mohd Saleem, Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, said rabies leaves no second chance once symptoms appear, adding that every rabies-related death is preventable through timely intervention. He stressed that immediate wound washing, timely vaccination and appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis can save lives.
The programme featured scientific presentations by Dr Muzamil Nazir, Associate Professor, and Dr Muzaffar Hussain, Assistant Professor, who discussed key aspects of rabies prevention and management.
An interactive rabies quiz, conducted by Dr Saima Nazir, Assistant Professor, engaged participants in practical scenarios related to rabies prevention and treatment.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Syed Aadil, Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, who acknowledged the contributions of the college administration, faculty members and participants in making the event meaningful.
The programme concluded with a public health message: “Don’t wait after a bite. Wash the wound, seek medical care and complete vaccination. Rabies is preventable, and every life matters.”
