STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Rabies is a fatal disease, however, it is 100% preventable with safe behaviour and vaccination. With this motive of creating awareness amongst the Jkiians, JK Public School (JKPS) Kunjwani, conducted an awareness programme on anti-rabies amongst the students.
Dr Smruti Smita Mohapatra, Rabies Ambassador Programme 2023 Vigyan Setu Foundation, a lady with profound knowledge and experience, acquainted more than 1200 students about several precautions to be taken.
The programme included basic information about the disease, how to prevent bites and what to do if bites occur. She also made pupils aware about the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960.
The awareness programme explained the natural behaviour of dogs, how to behave in a non-provocative way around them, and basic bite management practices. Children learned to wash any animal wound for 15 minutes with soap and water, to report scratches or bites to their parents, and that further medical treatment might be necessary.
Futhermore, she discussed about the most crucial steps required for ensuring access to post-exposure treatment, and vaccinating dogs.
Indeed, today’s anti- rabies awareness programme educated the children, as they are at greater risk of contracting rabies. They often have a special bond with stray animals- especially puppies – and learning about dog behaviour to avoid getting bitten and having the confidence to report bites and get treatment, can prevent an infection.
Principal JKPS Kunjwani, Rajesh Rathore, appreciated the efforts of Dr Smruti and motivated students to be cautious against animal bites.
“Educating students will benefit the broader community, as they bring these messages home and discuss them with their family members. The rabies education and awareness program at JKPS Kunjwani has been highly successful. JKiians now feel a shade more informed/ enlightened to be on guard against rabies-infected dogs and of the risks of exposure to dog-bites”, he added.
“Overall, the programme upskilled the students’ knowledge and apprised them with the anti-rabies prevention”, he summed up.