Woman paralyzed after rabies vaccination at Alappuzha Medical College, family files complaint | Onmanorama News

Alappuzha: A 61-year-old woman, Shanthamma from Thakazhi, was allegedly paralyzed after an anti-rabies vaccination administered at TD Government Medical College, Vandanam, Alappuzha. Later, her family filed a complaint with the Ambalappuzha police alleging medical negligence.

Shanthamma went to the hospital on October 21 after suffering scratches on her arm from a rabbit. After the administration of a trial dose of the rabies vaccine, she developed an allergic reaction, as noted by her daughter Sonia in her complaint. Despite these symptoms, the hospital staff continued with the full series of vaccinations, allegedly worsening her condition, Sonia added.

The police reported that after the vaccination, the patient lost consciousness, she is currently undergoing treatment, her condition is gradually improving.

Meanwhile, the principal of the medical college said that Shanthamma and her husband Soman were informed about the possible side effects and the vaccination was done after obtaining their consent. After noticing symptoms of anaphylaxis, an on-duty doctor from the general medicine department administered emergency care in the casualty area before transferring Shanthamma to the intensive care unit, officials said.

It was also practiced by cardiologists and neurologists. Officials also clarified that rare anaphylactic reactions were associated with the use of rabies immunoglobulin in this case.