Minister says PHCs offer anti-rabies vax, but patients get none | Chennai News - The Times of India

Chennai: Minutes after health minister Ma Subramanian challenged the media to find at least one govt hospital that does not offer the anti-rabies vaccine, staff at Koyambedu primary health centre in Natesa Nagar, Virugambakkam turned away requests for vaccination.At 3.15 pm on Saturday, a nurse at the centre, run by Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), said the doctor was on leave, and the next available vaccination slot was 9 am on Monday. "We give all vaccines only in the morning. The medicine comes in multi-vial doses. If we give the vaccine today, at least three doses will be wasted," she said. All PHCs under GCC follow this rule, she said.Minutes before, the minister challenged reporters to show one govt hospital in the state, that does not offer the vaccine. "I am free now. Tell me, which hospital should we go? I am ready to travel anywhere. I can also book flight tickets. Let's visit any hospital in Coimbatore, Madurai, Ramanathapuram, Sivagangai, or Chennai. You prove medicines aren't available," he said in reply to a question on accessibility to vaccination. "It is only after this govt took over that we ensured all PHCs hold stock of anti-rabies vaccine and anti-venom serum for snake bites," he added after inaugurating a health camp under the Nammai Kaakum Stalin scheme.In June, a TOI investigation uncovered shortages of anti-rabies vaccine and unjustified midday cutoffs citing fear of 'wastage'. None of the PHCs had rabies immunoglobulin, which provides immediate antibodies to neutralise the virus in the wound, particularly in severe bites. The staff offer TT vaccines instead. On Saturday, senior doctors from at least five PHCs in GCC said the decision to stop vaccinations at noon was taken by GCC to prevent wastage. "GCC should issue a written order asking staff not to mind wastage or issue single-dose vials. We don't deny anyone the vaccine, we ask them to come back. If the bite is severe, we ask them to go to a medical college hospital," said a senior medical officer.Doctors say anti-rabies vaccines are incredibly effective, but delays and improper administration can make them redundant. In 2025, at least 21 people died of rabies in TN. Studies by directorate of public health show that almost all those who died of rabies in the last five years did not take vaccine or complete the course.Minister Subramanian told TOI the health department has already told doctors not to mind wastage. "PHCs in the city are run by GCC. It doesn't come under our control. Yet, this is Unacceptable. We will ensure vaccines are available round the clock," he said.