Srinagar : Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH) on Saturday observed World Rabies Day with an awareness and academic program organized by the Department of Community Medicine in Sempora.
The event, overseen by Managing Director Tausif Ahmad and Executive Director Insha Qazi, aimed to emphasize the critical importance of timely prevention, vaccination, and treatment of rabies. Key attendees included Principal Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan, Medical Superintendent Dr. Syed Mubashir, and various healthcare professionals. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Khan underscored that rabies is a preventable yet fatal disease, advocating for increased public awareness, responsible animal management, and prompt medical attention following animal bites. Prof. Dr. Shahnaz Nabi highlighted the One Health approach, which integrates healthcare, veterinary, and community efforts to eliminate rabies. Dr. Sheikh Mohd Saleem stressed that rabies is fatal once symptoms manifest, but timely interventions such as immediate wound washing and vaccination can prevent deaths. The program included scientific presentations on rabies prevention and management by Dr. Muzamil Nazir and Dr. Muzaffar Hussain, along with an interactive quiz led by Dr. Saima Nazir to engage participants in practical scenarios. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Syed Aadil, who recognized the contributions of the college administration and participants. The overarching public health message reinforced the urgency of seeking medical care and completing vaccinations after potential rabies exposure, emphasizing that rabies is preventable and every life is valuable.
