Rabies outbreak in Bangkok, parts of Thai capital declared rabies zone

A rabies outbreak in Thailand has resulted in parts of Bangkok and Samut Prakan being declared temporary epidemic zones.

The Department of Livestock Development issued the urgent order and imposed a 30-day ban — from Sep. 9 to Oct. 8 — on the movement of dogs, cats and other mammals.

Rabies cases detected

This was after rabies cases were detected in Nong Bon sub-district of Prawet district in Bangkok.

The warning for six districts of Bangkok and one in Samut Prakan was issued after an infected stray dog was found in Chalermphrakiat Rama 9 soi 49 in Nong Bon area of Prawet district on Sep. 9, The Nation reported.

Serious outbreak

The outbreak was classified as a serious health threat that can spread to humans, dogs, cats, cattle, buffalo and other mammals.

The public is advised to avoid any contact with stray animals.

Those bitten or scratched should wash the wounds with soap and water, and seek rabies vaccination at a hospital immediately.

Those who see rabid animals showing signs such as agitation, unprovoked biting, stiffness, drooling or hanging tongue should report them to the authorities in Bangkok.

Restrictions

The order makes it mandatory for owners to report sick animals to the authorities within 12 hours.

Dead animals must be left where they died and reported to veterinary officers.

Other strict measures imposed include implementing mandatory reporting of sick animals and controlling carcasses.

Only with the written permission from an authorised veterinarian can dogs, cats and their carcasses be moved into or out of the declared area.

Those who violate or fail to comply can be jailed up to two years, or fined up to 40,000 baht (S$1,600), or both.

High-risk areas

The epidemic zone covers Nong Bon in Prawet district, which is bordered by Thap Chang, Bang Kaeo, Racha Thewa and Bang Chak.

Residents in the area and surrounding communities within a 5km radius have been urged to exercise extreme caution.

The high-risk zones include:

Nong Bon, Prawet district, Bangkok

Dok Mai, Prawet district, Bangkok

Prawet, Prawet district, Bangkok

On Nut, Suan Luang district, Bangkok

Phatthanakan, Suan Luang district, Bangkok

Thap Chang, Saphan Sung district, Bangkok

Lat Krabang, Lat Krabang district, Bangkok

Bang Na Nuea, Bang Na district, Bangkok

Bang Chak, Phra Khanong district, Bangkok

Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan

Racha Thewa, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan

Top photo via Unsplash