Kerala provides free treatment for rabies exposure to people who may have been bitten or exposed to infected animals. Every year, more than 900,000 people receive rabies-related treatment in the state. More than 90% of them complete the full course of treatment, which is much higher than the national completion rate of around 57% to 66%.
Despite the high treatment rate, rabies continues to claim lives in Kerala. Between 2012 and 2025, the state reported between five and 33 rabies-related deaths every year.
The exact reasons for these deaths are not fully known. In some cases, people may not seek medical help quickly after being bitten or exposed to the rabies virus. Others may stop taking the required treatment before completing the full course.
Delays in reaching hospitals or healthcare centres could also play a role. Some people may face difficulties accessing medical facilities, particularly when immediate treatment is needed.
Health experts stress that early medical attention is extremely important after a possible rabies exposure. Timely treatment and completing the recommended course can greatly reduce the risk of developing the disease. The continued deaths highlight the need for greater public awareness and quick access to proper medical care.