Dog bite cases on Punjabi varsity campus raise alarm

An unexpected menace is haunting Punjabi University students. With 51 dog bite incidents reported on the campus since January — most involving students — the university has launched an awareness campaign to tackle the menace after the district administration failed to effectively implement the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme.

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To address the growing concern, the Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College and Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, conducted a special awareness lecture titled “Management and Prevention of Animal Bites” in the Senate Hall of the university. The initiative was aimed at educating the students and faculty about immediate response, prevention, and common myths associated with animal bites.

“Instead of seeking timely medical attention, we have observed few victims pausing to take selfies after being bitten,” stated Dr Priya Sahni, faculty member at Government Medical College.

She emphasised that myths like applying red chilli powder, turmeric, mud, or herbs on dog bite wounds are not just ineffective, but dangerous too, as these may accelerate the spread of the rabies virus through nerves.

Dr Sahni said in case of a dog bite, the victim should immediately wash the wound under running water for at least 15 minutes, using soap or antiseptic, if available, and seek medical assistance without delay.

She also advised students to avoid interacting with stray dogs, especially packs, fighting dogs, or lactating females, which are more likely to attack if provoked.

Dr Regina Maini, Senior Medical Officer (SMO) at the university hospital, confirmed that on average, one dog bite case is reported every three days on the campus. “We felt the need for a dedicated awareness session as dog bite cases are creating a sense of panic among students and staff,” she said.

The event also saw participation from senior university officials. Vice-Chancellor Dr Jagdeep Singh assured attendees that the administration is treating the issue with utmost seriousness. “We welcome suggestions from the university community to help manage this crisis effectively,” he stated.

Narinder Kaur Multani, Dean Academics, expressed concern over the increasing number of cases and the sense of fear prevailing in hostels and residential quarters. Registrar Sanjiv Puri added that the university is in constant dialogue with the district administration to work out a practical and humane solution for stray dog management on the campus.

Interestingly, Sahni also advocated for compassion and responsibility, encouraging students and faculty to consider adopting stray dogs rather than keeping aggressive breeds like Pitbull or German Shepherd as pets.