Following the outbreak of rabies at Gelephu Gewog in Sarpang, officials from the Regional Veterinary Hospital, Gelephu Central Regional Referral Hospital and the district livestock sector carried out an awareness campaign in the gewog today. The awareness campaign not only drew a huge crowd but also served as an effective platform to educate the people. By raising awareness about rabies prevention and timely intervention, the campaign aimed to mitigate risks associated with the outbreak.
Sarpang, being a southern district with a porous international border, is at high risk of rabies outbreaks. Thus, the awareness campaign focused on engaging the community to equip them with an understanding of prevention measures and appropriate actions in the event of a dog bite.
“We recently confirmed a positive rabies case in Lodrai, indicating a potential risk of more cases in Gelephu Gewog. If by chance the dog bites an individual, it is crucial to wash the wound immediately with soap and seek medical attention at the hospital,” said Dr Lungten from the regional veterinary hospital.
Moreover, he said that a similar awareness programme would soon be organised for the people of Gelephu Thromde, given its proximity to Gelephu Gewog.
Additionally, door-to-door surveillance will be conducted in Gelephu Gewog and Thromde to identify any unreported human or animal bites, ensuring safety measures.
The rabies outbreak started when a rabid dog bit a man and several animals at Tareythang Gewog in May.
And recently, three children had to seek treatment at the Gelephu Central Regional Referral Hospital after being bitten by another female dog. The incident happened in and around the Royal Bhutan Army’s residential colony, where the dog had also bitten four other dogs and two cats.
Meanwhile, the Regional Veterinary Hospital has yet to determine the source of the case in the colony.
Karma Wangdi, Sarpang
Edited by Sonam Pem
