State-wise geospatial analysis of dog bite burden in India from 2018 to 2023

Around 59,000 rabies deaths still occur annually. According to WHO, India accounts for 36% of the global deaths due to rabies and 65% of the deaths due to rabies in the Southeast Asia region. India, being highly endemic for rabies, has the largest number of animal bites in the World. So, this study will identify the high-risk areas for dog bites in India through geospatial analysis for better outcomes.

To analyze the trends in dog bite cases in India from 2018 to 2023 and to identify the high-risk areas using geospatial analysis.

A retrospective analysis was conducted using open government data on dog bite cases across Indian states and union territories from 2018 to 2023. A geospatial analysis was done year-wise to identify high-risk areas for dog bites.

Dog bite cases peaked in 2018 (7.57 million), followed by a steady decline until 2022 (2.18 million), with an increase in 2023 (2.76 million). Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Maharashtra consistently reported the highest burden.

While India has made progress in dog bite reduction through vaccination and sterilization programs, the increase in 2023 highlights the need for sustained efforts. Strengthening surveillance, improving public awareness, and ensuring widespread access to rabies prophylaxis are crucial for long-term control. Future research should focus on socioenvironmental determinants and intervention effectiveness to refine public health strategies.