BBMP aims to vaccinate 1.84 lakh stray dogs through Combined Vaccine programme in Bengaluru

BBMP’s 2023 stray dog survey estimated that Bengaluru has around 2.79 lakh stray dogs. The civic body aims to vaccinate over 50% of them in the first phase.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has set a target to administer vaccines to 1.84 lakh stray dogs across the city for multiple diseases under the Combined Vaccine programme. The BBMP claims that a civic body administering combined vaccines to strays is a first in the country. 

Speaking at the launch at the BBMP head office, Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath stated that this is the first time in the country that a civic body is implementing a Combined Vaccine programme for community dogs. The initiative aims to curb the spread of deadly infectious diseases among stray dogs and prevent zoonotic diseases that could affect humans. 

“Apart from rabies vaccination, it is essential to implement the Combined Vaccine programme for stray dogs to prevent several deadly infectious diseases. These diseases not only pose a severe threat to stray dogs but also have the potential to spread to humans. Implementing this vaccination drive is a crucial step toward public health protection,” Mr. Giri Nath said.

Among the various fatal diseases affecting stray dogs, five are particularly dangerous. The Combined Vaccine is essential to shield stray dogs from these diseases and to prevent their transmission to humans, officials. said

The BBMP has allocated ₹4.98 crore for procuring vaccines and ensuring proper cold storage facilities. Alongside the ongoing Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme and Anti-Rabies Vaccination (ARV) drive, this initiative is expected to significantly improve public health and animal welfare.

Mr. Giri Nath emphasised that controlling these diseases is vital for both animal and public health. BBMP’s 2023 stray dog survey estimated that the city has around 2.79 lakh stray dogs. The civic body aims to vaccinate over 50% of them in the first phase.