Kerala govternment to meet treatment expense of dog bite victims

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Amid concerns over the shortage of anti-rabies vaccine in the state, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy today said the government would bear the expenses of those who sought treatment in private hospitals after suffering dog bites.

In response to a question raised in the state Assembly, Chandy said the decision in this regard was taken as many people who suffer dog bites have to go to private hospitals in view of the dearth of required medicines at government hospitals.

"Their expenses will be met from the Chief Minister's relief fund," he said.

Chandy also encouraged the MLAs to bring the matter of dog bites to the notice of CM Office and assured full assistance.

Meanwhile, state health minister V S Shivakumar said shortage of production of the anti-rabies serum in the country was one of the major reasons for its shortage in the state.

"We have brought 1200 vials of vaccine to the state in January and have placed orders for 7200 vials to meet the urgent situation," the minister said.