Shillong: A 32-year-old nurse posted at a sub-centre succumbed to rabies on Monday at Civil Hospital Shillong in Meghalaya, officials said.
The nurse has been identified as Gracetyfull Marngara, who was employed as a Mid-Level Health Provider at Tynghor Health Sub Centre in West Khasi Hills district, said an official.
The fatal illness was a result of a bite from stray puppies she had received two months ago, the official said.
Marngar had unfortunately not received anti-rabies vaccination after the incident. Despite weeks of intensive treatment at Civil Hospital Shillong, rabies symptoms progressed rapidly, ultimately leading to her untimely demise.
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Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh confirmed the case on Tuesday and expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss.
She announced the government’s plan to make anti-rabies vaccines more readily available, even at the sub-center level, to prevent such fatalities in the future.
Marngar’s death serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of seeking immediate medical attention and vaccination following any animal bite.
Her passing has left her husband and one-year-old child devastated. The funeral service was held at the Catholic Church Cemetery in Laitkseh, West Khasi Hills.
