Survey reveals alarming rabies ignorance in Goa’s slums

Panaji: In Goa’s most vulnerable communities, alarming gaps in awareness about rabies and dog bite prevention persist, despite the noticeable rise in stray dog attacks across the state.
A group of 62 students from the Goa Institute of Management (GIM), as part of their Service Learning and Rural Immersion (SLRI) programme, in partnership with Mission Rabies, conducted a study and awareness campaign among high-risk populations— slum dwellers, construction workers, postmen, electricity meter readers, and beach guards.
“The respondents were unsure how to identify or respond to rabid dogs. Initially, most respondents struggled to recognise rabies symptoms in dogs,” their analysis report reads.
The primary role of GIM students was to assist education officers from Mission Rabies in collecting and analysing data through structured pre- and post-intervention surveys. The team surveyed 166 individuals across four slum areas—Mapusa, Panaji, Vasco da Gama, and Baina beach. Before their intervention, over 53% of respondents had no idea how the rabies virus spreads.
According to the survey, many residents, particularly in slums and among daily-wage workers, remained unaware of how to respond to a dog bite—often resorting to unsafe practices like running or throwing objects. Post-training, this changed dramatically. A stunning 94.6% could correctly identify transmission methods, including bites, scratches, and licks on open wounds.
“After training, they became more aware of the key signs like excessive drooling, extreme aggression, and unsteady movement, enabling them to respond appropriately. They understood the risks, recognised warning signs, and became aware of the need to report cases to local authorities or Mission Rabies,” the report reads.
“Post-training, most respondents became aware of the correct ways to protect themselves and learned safer behaviours like standing still, washing wounds with soap and water immediately after a bite, ensuring better first aid,” the report reads. It further states that “this shift is crucial” because early identification of rabies symptoms “can save lives.”
“With better knowledge, people can now act quickly—seeking medical help, reporting cases, and avoiding risky contact. By continuing to spread awareness, we can reduce misinformation, prevent rabies infections, and protect both humans and animals in the future,” the report reads.