Panaji: Goa has intensified its rabies-control efforts along the Karnataka border after multiple cases were reported in Karwar and Ankola over the past six months, prompting authorities to extend intervention beyond the state to prevent the virus from entering Goa. Mission Rabies director (education) Dr Murugan Appupillai said around 40 cases were recorded in Karwar and Ankola during this period. Ankola, about 70 km from the Goa border, and nearby Karwar are being closely monitored.Officials said the Karnataka programme will include sterilisation, vaccination and awareness drives, along with closer coordination and surveillance on both sides of the border. They reiterated the goal of maintaining Goa’s status as India’s first 100% rabies-controlled state.A recent Goa campaign sterilised about 900 dogs, with no rabies detected. Another drive is expected in about a month.
