Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS) has introduced an anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) called “Dow Rab” in a major relief to individuals bitten by dogs in Sindh.
According to reports, approximately one million people in Pakistan suffer from stray dog bites each year, resulting in an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 deaths from rabies.
National Institute of Health
The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad has stated that the country requires more than 2 million doses of anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) each year, with a significant portion imported from India.
Anti-rabies Vaccine
Due to pricing disputes, Pakistan is experiencing a severe shortage of anti-rabies vaccine (ARV). According to the importers, the Pakistani rupee’s depreciation against the US dollar justifies an increase in the prices of vaccines and other biological products.
However, regulatory authorities’ reluctance to increase prices has exacerbated the shortage crisis. DowRab, according to officials, was manufactured using imported raw materials.
They added that it will not only help address the ARV shortage, but will also be accessible to dog bite victims via phone call.
According to officials, the vaccine can be delivered within 48 hours of initial contact. The facility was initially launched in Sindh, with plans to expand it to other parts of the country in the near future.
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