Another suspected rabies case has been reported at Karachi’s Jinnah Hospital, where a 70-year-old resident of Baldia Town was brought in critical condition after developing symptoms associated with the disease.
According to hospital sources, a dog bit the man on his left hand and foot around 20 days before he was taken to the hospital. He reportedly did not receive an anti-rabies vaccine after the incident.
Sources said the patient also has hepatitis C. His condition was described as critical when he arrived at the hospital.
A suspected rabies case, not a confirmed diagnosis
The case remains suspected, with the available information indicating symptoms of rabies rather than a confirmed diagnosis. Details about the specific symptoms, the diagnostic assessment and the treatment plan were not provided.
It was also not clear why the patient had not received vaccination after the dog bite or whether he had sought medical attention elsewhere before being brought to Jinnah Hospital. No further update on his condition was included in the initial account.
A familiar and deadly pattern
The case follows a pattern Karachi’s doctors see far too often. Sindh has reported 38 rabies deaths this year, according to figures cited in recent coverage of the crisis, and hospital officials say many victims arrive weeks after being bitten, by which time the disease is nearly always fatal.
Health officials have repeatedly stressed that a dog bite victim must wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and reach a public-sector health facility immediately. Home remedies do not work, and delays of days or weeks can turn a treatable exposure into a death sentence.
The stray dog population in Karachi keeps growing, and dog-bite incidents continue to rise. For the elderly man from Baldia Town, the 20-day gap between the bite and any hospital visit may prove the decisive factor. His case is a warning to every household: after a dog bite, the vaccine cannot wait.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the Karachi rabies case?
A 70-year-old Baldia Town resident bitten by a dog about 20 days ago was brought to Karachi’s Jinnah Hospital in critical condition with suspected rabies. He had not received an anti-rabies vaccine.
Is the rabies diagnosis confirmed?
No. The case is described as suspected rabies based on symptoms. No confirmed diagnosis or detailed medical assessment has been made public.
How many rabies deaths has Sindh reported this year?
Sindh has reported 38 rabies deaths this year, according to figures cited in recent coverage of the crisis.
What should you do immediately after a dog bite?
Wash the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes and seek immediate medical attention at a public-sector health facility for vaccination. Avoid home remedies.
