IPOH: Taiping and Bukit Gantang in the Larut Matang and Selama districts of Perak were declared rabies-infected areas today, Bernama reported.
Veterinary Services director-general Datuk Dr Quaza Nizamuddin Hassan Nizam said that the move is in response to two reports that several dogs in the two locations tested positive for the virus.
According to a report on the first case, a pet canine bit two members of its owner’s family at Taman Sri Kota Phase 2, Taiping, on Dec 31.
“The dog owner lodged a report (on the incident) five days later. The dog was put to sleep on Jan 3.
“The next day, a test conducted by the Ipoh Veterinary Research Institute on a sample of the dog’s brain tested positive for rabies,” Dr Quaza said.
In the second case, samples taken on Jan 11 from three stray dogs in Tupai Business Centre and Sri Boyan tested positive for rabies.
Surveillance, sampling
Dr Quaza said that surveillance and sampling will be carried out on stray dogs and cats immediately within a two to 10-kilometre radius of the affected areas.
He said that the operation will take place in stages, and will include Kerian, Kuala Kangsar and Kinta districts.
The vaccination of pet dogs within one and 10-kilometres of affected areas will be carried out in stages, beginning tomorrow, he added
“Vaccinated dogs will be issued a collar as identification, and a rabies vaccination record card will be given to owners,” Dr Quaza said.
He added that the culling of stray dogs within a one to 10-kilometre radius of affected areas will be undertaken immediately, with the cooperation of local authorities.
In addition, the department will carry out road patrols to detect attempts to transfer dogs out of infected areas.
Dr Quaza advised dog owners to vaccinate their pets, and for both dog and cat owners to keep their pets in enclosed areas, away from stray dogs.
“People are advised to avoid getting close to stray dogs. If bitten, they must wash the wound with soap and water and rush to a government clinic for treatment,” he said.
Dr Quaza added that members of the public can obtain more information from the Larut Matang and Selama District Veterinary Services Office by calling 05-8072703.