Dog Bite Victims in UP to Get Free Anti‑Rabies Immunoglobulin Along With ARV; Major Relief Announced

Lucknow | January 4, 2026 Dog bite victims in Uttar Pradesh are set to get major relief as the state government has announced that anti‑rabies immunoglobulin injections will now be provided free of cost at public health facilities along with the routine anti‑rabies vaccine (ARV). Previously, patients had to purchase the costly immunoglobulin themselves, which often caused financial strain and delayed treatment. This move is expected to benefit thousands of people, especially those from low-income families. Rabies, a deadly viral disease, is primarily transmitted through dog bites, with nearly 96 percent of human cases linked to dogs. Standard treatment for bite victims includes immediate first aid, followed by a full course of ARV. In cases of deep or high-risk bites—particularly on the head, neck, or upper limbs—an anti‑rabies immunoglobulin injection is crucial to neutralize the virus and prevent infection. Without it, the vaccine alone may not be fully effective. Many districts previously faced shortages of immunoglobulin at government hospitals, forcing patients to buy it from private pharmacies at prices ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹3,000 per dose. For many families, this cost was a barrier, sometimes putting lives at risk. The new policy ensures that both ARV and immunoglobulin will now be available at no cost at community health centers, primary health centers, district hospitals, and medical college hospitals. Officials in Gorakhpur have already initiated procurement of around 1,000 doses through the Chief Medical Officer’s office, with an additional 500 doses ordered by BRD Medical College. These will be distributed to health centers so that severe bite victims can receive timely treatment without worrying about expenses. Health experts say this initiative will strengthen rabies prevention, particularly in areas with high stray dog populations. It also ensures that serious bite cases receive complete treatment promptly, reducing fatalities. Authorities urge the public to seek immediate medical attention after any dog bite, as timely treatment is essential to prevent rabies. This move marks a significant step toward making rabies treatment more accessible, affordable, and effective for the people of Uttar Pradesh, providing much-needed relief to families who previously struggled with the high cost of life-saving injections. Dog Bite Victims in UP to Get Free Anti‑Rabies Immunoglobulin Along With ARV; Major Relief Announced Good news for dog bite victims in Uttar Pradesh! The state government has announced that anti‑rabies immunoglobulin injections will now be given free of cost along with the routine anti‑rabies vaccine (ARV) at government hospitals. Earlier, patients had to buy these injections privately, which could cost between ₹2,500 and ₹3,000 per dose, putting a heavy financial burden on many families. Rabies is a deadly disease, mostly spread through dog bites. While ARV is essential for all bite victims, severe bites—especially on the head, neck, or arms—require immunoglobulin injections to neutralize the virus quickly. Without it, the vaccine alone may not be enough to prevent infection. The government has started distributing immunoglobulin doses to community health centers, primary health centers, district hospitals, and medical college hospitals so patients can get timely treatment without worrying about costs. This initiative is expected to save lives, reduce treatment delays, and make rabies prevention more accessible to everyone, especially in areas with many stray dogs. Authorities stress the importance of immediate medical attention after any dog bite. With free immunoglobulin now available, families no longer need to choose between safety and affordability, marking a big step in public health care in Uttar Pradesh.