Tragedy struck Palanpur Jakatnaka area of Surat as a five and a half year old girl, Khushi, died due to suspected rabies. The incident occurred after a dog licked a wound on her forehead six months ago. The dog had run after Khushi and licked her wound before being chased away by her father, Jaishbhai. The young girl was given an injection as a precautionary measure. However, last week, her health suddenly deteriorated, and she began showing symptoms of rabies, such as fear of water and wind.
Khushi was admitted to a private hospital initially, but the doctors advised her family to take her to a government hospital. On Monday afternoon, Khushi was admitted to Smimmer Hospital, where she was placed in the PICU ward and kept on a ventilator. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, Khushi died during treatment.
Doctors at Smimmer Hospital stated that Khushi was not bitten by a dog, but the symptoms of rabies were visible. It is believed that the dog's saliva may have entered Khushi's bloodstream through the wound on her forehead, causing the fatal illness. The incident highlights the need for greater awareness about the dangers of stray dogs and the importance of seeking medical treatment after dog bites or scratches.
