Dogs jabbed to contain Rabies outbreak
Source: Chronicle News Service / Kaimuanthang Mangte

CCpur, April 06 2025: In response to recent rabies-related fatalities, the Veterinary Department's Quick Response Team (QRT) conducted a survey and vaccination drive on Saturday at New Zouveng, a locality currently declared as a containment zone.

During the operation, about 30 households were surveyed, all owned dogs vaccinated, and vaccination certificates issued.

The team also verified existing certificates to ensure coverage.

The action follows the death of a resident on April 4 due to rabies.

In a related development, another QRT was despatched to Mongken village, under Henglep Sub-Division, where a young girl recently succumbed to rabies following a dog bite.

The team administered free anti-rabies vaccinations to all dogs in the village and neighbouring areas.

Speaking to this correspondent, Dr Veithienneng, district veterinary officer, reported that dogs from about 10 villages have been vaccinated so far.

Since January 2025, at least 749 people in the district have been affected by dog bites, with three confirmed rabies-related deaths, according to official data.

Dr Veithienneng noted that the biggest challenge is insufficient supply of vaccines, which has hampered the department's ability to respond swiftly.

"Due to limited stock, we are unable to carry out urgent interventions as needed", she said.

The district administration had been enforcing containment measures in New Zoveng following the confirmation of multiple rabies cases.

As part of the protocol, the movement of dogs into and out of the village has been strictly prohibited, and residents urged to remain vigilant, avoid contact with stray animals, and report any suspicious animal behaviour immediately.

The District Veterinary Department also established a control centre to coordinate response activities and handle public inquiries.

Meanwhile, Director of Health Services Chambo Gonmei visited the district on Saturday to assess the situation on the ground.

He attended a high-level meeting at the Deputy Commissioner's office in Churachandpur Mini-Secretariat, chaired by DC Dharun Kumar S.The meeting reviewed preventive and containment strategies in detail, with an aim for a swift response and public awareness.

Comment