New Delhi: HL September 27, 2026
Delhi is witnessing an estimated 5.75 lakh dog-bite cases every year, with the annual incidence rate reaching 25.5 cases per 1,000 population, according to a study by doctors from Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) and University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS).
The findings assume added significance amid the ongoing investigation into a suspected fake anti-rabies vaccine supply network stretching from Delhi to Kanpur. Authorities recently detected suspected counterfeit ‘Abhayrab’ vaccine at Bhagirath Palace in Chandni Chowk, following which the investigation reportedly led to two firms in Kanpur being sealed.
Delhi’s Dog-Bite Rate Higher Than National Average
The MAMC-UCMS study found that the incidence of dog bites in Delhi is considerably higher than the rate recorded in a national survey conducted in 2022-23 with support from the World Health Organization.
The national survey had recorded a rate of around 17 dog-bite cases per 1,000 population, while the Delhi study found the rate to be 25.5 per 1,000. Based on Delhi’s population, researchers estimated that nearly 5.75 lakh people may suffer dog bites every year.
The study covered 4,000 people from 800 families in the North-East and South-East Shahdara zones and was published in the BMC Public Health Journal.
Men Account for 71.6% of Victims
The study found a significant gender difference among dog-bite victims. Men accounted for 71.6% of the victims, while women accounted for 28.4%.
The highest proportion of incidents was reported between 3 pm and 9 pm, when 39.2% of victims were bitten. Another 33.3% of incidents occurred between 9 am and 3 pm.
Researchers also found that 75.5% of victims were bitten by stray dogs, while the remaining cases involved pet dogs.
Incomplete Anti-Rabies Vaccination Remains a Concern
The study highlighted gaps in post-bite treatment. Around 25.5% of victims did not receive the complete course of the anti-rabies vaccine. Of these, approximately 2% did not receive even a single dose, while others received only one, two or three doses.
The study also reported that 73.1% of people suffering serious dog-bite injuries did not receive rabies immunoglobulin (RIG).
Fake Vaccine Investigation Raises Additional Concern
Against this backdrop, the suspected circulation of counterfeit anti-rabies vaccine has emerged as another concern.
Following the recovery of suspected fake Abhayrab vaccine in Delhi’s Bhagirath Palace, the Delhi Crime Branch and Drugs Control authorities traced a suspected supply link to New RJ Agency and another firm in Kanpur’s Naughara area.
Drug officials conducted searches at locations in Birhana Road and Naughara. While the suspected fake vaccine stock was not found during the searches, purchase and sale records were reportedly recovered. Authorities have found evidence relating to 590 suspected counterfeit vaccine vials, and the two firms have been sealed.
Samples from 120 vials have reportedly been sent to the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli, for testing. The laboratory report is expected to establish whether the seized product was counterfeit and determine its composition.
Authorities are also investigating other suspected firms in Kanpur and examining the alleged manufacturing and distribution chain.
Delhi Recorded 26 Rabies Deaths Between 2020 and 2024
According to the data shown with the report, Delhi recorded:
2024 – 11 deaths
2023 – 3 deaths
2022 – 8 deaths
2021 – 2 deaths
2020 – 2 deaths
The combination of a high incidence of dog bites, incomplete post-exposure vaccination and the ongoing investigation into suspected counterfeit anti-rabies vaccines has brought renewed attention to the availability, authenticity and timely administration of rabies prevention measures in the capital.
