Community Physician Specialist of the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana, said approximately 250,000 animal bite cases are reported annually in Sri Lanka, with the majority attributed to dogs. He warned that the increasing number of bites has contributed to the recent fatalities.
Most of the deaths have been reported from the Puttalam, Kurunegala and Rathnapura districts.
Dr. Liyanapathirana stressed that rabies is 100 per cent fatal once symptoms appear, but entirely preventable through timely medical treatment and vaccination. He emphasised the need for strengthened public awareness and responsible pet ownership to curb the spread of the disease.
Health authorities reiterated that anyone bitten or scratched by an animal should immediately seek medical attention, regardless of the severity of the wound. They also urged pet owners to ensure their animals are regularly vaccinated as part of efforts to eliminate rabies before 2030 and achieve zero deaths nationwide.
