Sun Jan 04 20:16:52 UTC 2026: Summary:
The Delhi government is declaring rabies a notifiable disease to improve surveillance and prevention efforts, aiming for zero rabies-related deaths in the city. This decision, prompted by a Supreme Court order following tragic dog-bite incidents and rabies fatalities, will require all health facilities and practitioners to report suspected, probable, and confirmed cases. The government also plans to strengthen vaccination facilities for both humans and animals and is working on a State Action Plan for Rabies Elimination. The move aims to improve coordination between human and animal health systems and implement targeted preventative measures.
News Article:
Delhi Declares Rabies a Notifiable Disease Following Supreme Court Order
New Delhi, January 5, 2026 – The Delhi government is taking decisive action to combat rabies, officially declaring it a notifiable disease, according to Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh. This move, announced on Sunday, January 4th, 2026, aims to strengthen disease surveillance and prevent rabies-related deaths following a directive from the Supreme Court, which took suo motu cognisance of recent dog-bite incidents and tragic rabies fatalities, including that of a six-year-old girl.
“No death due to rabies is acceptable,” stated Minister Singh, emphasizing the preventable nature of the disease. The new policy will require all government and private health facilities, including medical colleges and individual practitioners, to report any suspected, probable, or confirmed rabies cases to health authorities.
The government is also focusing on bolstering vaccination infrastructure. Anti-rabies vaccines are currently available at 59 health facilities across Delhi’s 11 districts, and anti-rabies serum is being administered at 33 designated hospitals. Further enhancements to vaccination programs for both humans and animals are planned.
“The government is also strengthening rabies vaccination facilities for humans as well as dogs and other animals,” according to a statement.
This decision comes amidst concerns over stray dog populations in Delhi. While the Municipal Corporation of Delhi lacks an official dog count, data indicates that 54,623 stray dogs were vaccinated between April and September 2025. However, as of July 2025, the city recorded 26,334 dog bite cases and 26 confirmed rabies cases.
The declaration of rabies as a notifiable disease is expected to take effect immediately. The initiative is designed to facilitate better tracking of disease trends, improve coordination between human and animal health systems, and implement targeted preventative measures in high-risk areas. The government is also working with local bodies and the Animal Husbandry Department to finalise a State Action Plan for Rabies Elimination.
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