Maharashtra: 8-year-old boy dies of rabies after stray dog bite in Arvi

On 16th February, an 8-year-old boy, Dhaval Gulhane, died of rabies while receiving treatment at Government Medical College and Hospital in Nagpur, Maharashtra. Dhaval, who hailed from Arvi city in Wardha district, was bitten by a stray dog on 25th January near his residence in Bhakre Layout.

According to media reports, a stray dog bit him on the hand and cheek, causing serious injuries. He was initially rushed to a nearby hospital and later shifted to Amravati as his condition worsened. As there was no improvement, he was admitted to GMCH Nagpur on 15th February.

Speaking to the media, GMCH medical superintendent Dr Avinash Gawande stated that the child had received three anti-rabies vaccine doses, but the full regimen was not completed. He was admitted with acute rabies syndrome and developed hydrophobia in the last two days, a sign of advanced infection. Doctors noted that incomplete vaccination and delayed comprehensive treatment significantly increased the risk.

City in mourning, questions over civic response

The residents of Arvi have said that there has been a spike in stray dog attacks. Locals said that repeated complaints to the municipal council yielded no concrete preventive action.

Chief officer Kiran Sukulwar said the rabid dog was caught soon after information was received. Residents have demanded an urgent dog catching drive along with vaccination and sterilisation measures. Arvi MLA Sumit Wankhede termed the incident unfortunate and called for stronger rabies prevention efforts, urging citizens and animal welfare groups to cooperate with the administration.

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