The Indian Veterinary Association (IVA) Kerala commemorated World Rabies Day 2024 on 28th September 2024 at Indian Medical Association Hall, Palakkad, under the global theme "Breaking Rabies Boundaries." The event was officially registered with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) and focused on strengthening the collaboration between veterinary and medical sectors to combat rabies.
The event was inaugurated by Shri. K. Krishnankutty, Honorable Minister for Electricity, Kerala. He emphasized the importance of joint efforts in eliminating rabies, particularly through educational initiatives like the REACH Programme. The function was presided over by Dr. N. Usharani, President of IVA Kerala, and the inaugural address was delivered by Dr. K. Jayaraj, General Secretary of IVA Kerala, who underscored the significance of rabies control and prevention. The keynote address was given by Smt. Binumol, President of Palakkad District Panchayat, who highlighted the importance of community involvement in achieving rabies elimination.
Felicitations were offered by Dr. K. K. Baby, North Zone Vice President of IVA Kerala, and Dr. N. M. Arun, District Chairperson of IMA Palakkad, who both stressed the importance of a One Health approach in tackling rabies.
Program Highlights:
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Launch of the Rabies Education and Community Outreach (REACH) Programme:
The REACH Programme was launched to train students as ambassadors to raise rabies awareness in their schools and communities. -
Interactive Sessions under the REACH Programme:
- "Rabies: From Bite to Treatment" by Dr. R. Sathyajith, Secretary, IMA Palakkad.
- "Rabies: Human-Animal Interface" by Dr. Dilip Falgunan, Secretary of IVA Palakkad, discussing the crucial link between human and animal health in rabies prevention.
Rabies Day Awards:
- The Premier Rabies Day Excellence Award 2024 was awarded to Dr. Swapna Susan Abraham, retired Deputy Director, Animal Husbandry Department, for her remarkable contributions to rabies prevention.
- A Special Appreciation Award was presented to Dr. George Varghese in recognition of his exceptional dedication to rabies control efforts and awareness activities.
Felicitation of REACH Ambassadors:
Students who participated in the REACH Programme were inducted into the Student Rabies Awareness Brigade and received certificates for their active role in raising awareness about rabies prevention in their communities.
Event images
