Rabies outbreak prompts veterinary response in Panchthar

An outbreak of rabies has prompted an urgent response in Panchthar district, eastern Nepal, after claiming the lives of more than 40 livestock and domestic animals. A team of veterinary experts has been dispatched to the affected Phalgunanda Rural Municipality to assess the situation and implement control measures.

The deployed team, led by Dr. Raghabendra Tiwari, chief of the Veterinary Hospital and Livestock Service Expert Centre in Ilam, is visiting affected settlements. They are conducting field assessments, collecting samples for testing, and engaging with farmers, health workers, and local representatives. Preliminary examinations of deceased animals have confirmed the presence of rabies.

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Based on its assessment, the team concluded that all domestic animals in the affected areas should be vaccinated against rabies.

Based on their assessment, the veterinary team concluded that vaccinating all domestic animals in the affected regions is crucial. The Directorate of Livestock and Fisheries Development has supplied 2,000 doses of anti-rabies vaccine to Panchthar, and vaccination efforts have commenced. The team also plans to assess the situation in Phidim, the district headquarters, and consult with stakeholders.

The outbreak has raised concerns about the potential spread of rabies, particularly in Phidim Municipality, where a single infected dog reportedly bit numerous other animals and people. Health authorities are advising precautionary anti-rabies vaccinations for farmers who handle animals, not just those directly bitten, due to the heightened risk.

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The Directorate of Livestock and Fisheries Development has already supplied 2,000 doses of anti-rabies vaccine for Panchthar district.