Amid a rise in dog bite incidents in Tamil Nadu in 2025, Salem district stands out as the most affected area, leading the State in both reported dog bite cases and rabies-related deaths. Official data reveals that Salem district recorded 45,102 dog bite cases between January and November 2025, the highest in Tamil Nadu. The numbers are expected to increase with December data yet to be included, suggesting an additional 3,500 cases might have been reported in December.
The spike in cases was particularly notable in November, with 5,624 reported dog bite incidents, marking it as the worst month of the year for the district. In terms of fatalities, Salem reported four rabies-related deaths during the same period, the highest in the State. Tiruvannamalai district also recorded four rabies deaths in 2025, according to State Health Department records.
Health officials attribute Salem’s high numbers to its geographical size and population distribution, with a mix of dense urban areas and vast rural regions contributing to increased dog bite incidents due to the lack of close-knit communities to care for, vaccinate, and feed stray dogs, leading to aggression. Each of the 106 Primary Health Centres in the district records an average of two dog bite cases daily, with additional cases treated at private hospitals and medical colleges.
Authorities emphasize the need for sustained Animal Birth Control sterilization programs to control the growing stray dog population, requiring coordinated efforts from municipal bodies, local panchayats, and the Animal Husbandry Department. They also stress the importance of seeking immediate medical attention after any dog bite, as rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. Completing the full anti-rabies vaccination schedule is crucial, with Primary Health Centres ensuring patients adhere to the treatment plan.
The Salem City Municipal Corporation has intensified efforts in 2025 to tackle the issue, operating two Animal Birth Control centers that sterilize around 500 dogs monthly. A survey estimated approximately 24,000 stray and unlicensed dogs within corporation limits. Measures include setting up shelters for dogs in sensitive public areas, identifying designated feeding points in each of the city’s 60 wards, and promoting public awareness to encourage prompt vaccination post-dog bites, aiming to prevent rabies-related deaths.
