Health authorities have expressed serious concern over the ongoing threat of rabies, reporting 14 fatalities so far this year. 

They are urging the public to seek immediate medical attention following any animal bite to prevent further deaths.

Community Physician Specialist Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana of the Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health (MOH) emphasised that rabies remains a 100 percent fatal but entirely preventable disease. 

He stressed the importance of eliminating rabies in Sri Lanka by 2030 to achieve the goal of zero deaths from the disease.

Most recent fatalities have been reported from the districts of Puttalam, Kurunegala, and Rathnapura. 

Dr. Liyanapathirana highlighted that approximately 250,000 animal bite incidents are reported annually in Sri Lanka, with a significant number involving dogs.

He pointed out that an increase in dog bite cases, especially in Colombo and Gampaha districts, has contributed to the recent rise in rabies-related deaths.

Health experts reiterated that rabies can be fully prevented through proper vaccination of pets, raising public awareness, and ensuring timely post-exposure treatment.

Authorities strongly urged the public not to ignore even minor animal bites and to seek medical care immediately to prevent further fatalities.