11 December, 2008 - About 59 stray dogs were fed with poisoned meat and killed in Samtse this week as a part of the rabies outbreak control.
While the rabies outbreak in the district was noticed from November 18, livestock sector and municipal office jointly started the elimination programme on December 5, after seeking technical advice from the regional livestock development centre in Tsimasham, Chukha.
“We’re not left with any other alternative to control rabies from spreading further,” said the district livestock officer, Thonkey Drukpa.
According to records maintained by the district livestock sector, a four-year old child was reported to have died from suspected rabies, while two goats and four cattle were also reported to have died from rabies in the recent past. About 52 cattle were under anti-rabies post exposure treatment.
A total of 28 people were also advised to seek medical attention, as they were suspected of having been contaminated through the milk of cows bitten by rabid dogs, while some were bitten by stray dogs.
According to the livestock officers, the rabies outbreak had initially begun from bordering Indian towns. “The dogs from across the border enter at night and fight with dogs here, thus spreading the disease,” said Thonkey Drukpa.
Meanwhile, Samtse residents have been notified on the possible risks of rabies and bird flu and advised to avoid importing raw meat from the neighbouring Indian towns. The elimination programme will continue until December 14.
By Samten Yeshi
